Bio-based Polyamide 11 Plant Slated for Singapore

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

When complete, the new site 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 ($545 million). To finance the plant in Singapore, Arkema successfully placed its first-ever green bond in October 2020 for a total amount of €300 million ($363 million).

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

“We are excited to maintain the momentum and speed of construction,” said Erwoan Pezron, Senior Vice-President, High Performance Polymers. “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.”