Braskem Opens Renewable Innovation Center in Boston Biotech and Innovation Cluster

Petrochemicals giant Braskem today announced the opening of its Renewable Innovation Center in Lexington, MA. The new 35,000-square-foot center will accelerate innovation in renewable chemicals and materials and expand capabilities in biotechnology, catalysis, and process engineering, according to the company. A particular focus will be given to early-stage science and engineering related to the conversion of biomass-based feedstocks — including sugars, cellulose, plant oils, and lignin — into sustainable chemicals and materials.

Braskem is the largest polyolefins producer in the Americas, as well as a pioneer in the production of biopolymers on an industrial scale.

“Braskem has a strong ambition to be a key player in carbon capturing through the production of materials with renewable raw materials. This innovation center even better positions Braskem to forge solutions that meet the needs of today and the future,” said Braskem America CEO Mark Nikolich.

The new center is strategically based in Greater Boston’s biotechnology and innovation ecosystem, located within a one-hour drive of more than 60 universities and colleges. Work in the Renewable Innovation Center will complement Braskem’s global research and development work currently being conducted in the United States, Brazil, Mexico, and Germany. The company’s global headquarters is in São Paulo, Brazil.

The official opening of the Renewable Innovation Center expands Braskem’s global innovation footprint to seven centers dedicated to research and development. “The launch of Braskem’s Renewable Innovation Center will foster the development of new sustainable solutions for chemicals and plastics. We are increasing investments, dedicating resources, and attracting great minds to help us meet our ambitions to create a more sustainable future for everyone," commented Antonio Queiroz, Vice President of Innovation, Technology, and Sustainable Development.

Braskem America operates five production plants in Texas, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia; an Innovation and Technology Center in Pittsburgh; and operations in Lexington, MA, focused on leveraging groundbreaking developments in biotechnology and advanced materials.