Arkema begins construction for new bio-based polyamide 11 facility 

Arkema (Cologne, Germany) has confirmed that it is on track to begin production of Amino 11 and its flagship Rilsan polyamide 11 high-performance polymer at its new plant on Jurong Island, Singapore, in the first half of 2022. This plant, for which production will be 100% derived from renewable castor beans, represents a 50% increase in Arkema’s global polyamide 11 capacity.

With this ambitious project initially announced in 2017, Arkema is delivering on its strong commitment to specialty materials and the bio-based polyamide 11 chain. When complete, the company says, this will represent the biggest integrated bio-factory in the world dedicated to high-performance polymers. 

The total investment in the region, which also includes downstream polymer capacities in China, is approximately €450 million. To finance this new plant in Singapore, Arkema placed its first green bond in October 2020, for a total amount of €300 million.

Now, after a first phase of in-depth studies and administrative procedures, Arkema’s technical teams have started work on the infrastructure and construction of the large-scale industrial complex and is fully on track despite some pandemic-related difficulties.

“We are excited to maintain the momentum and speed of construction. After facing early challenges due to the global pandemic, we are operating at full strength and are now entering the peak construction phase with an estimated 2,000 workers on site during the summer months,” says Erwoan Pezron, senior vice president, High-Performance Polymers, Arkema. “The enthusiasm of our team in Singapore is stronger than ever, supported by the vigorous demand from our customers for sustainable and cutting-edge solutions.”

This investment reportedly supports strong growth in demand for advanced bio-circular materials. According to the company, Rilsan polyamide 11 is recognized worldwide for its properties and performance in very demanding applications, contributing to the development of sustainable solutions in fast-growing sectors, such as new energy vehicles, 3D printing, as well as consumer goods, electronics, sports and lifestyle markets.