Evonik advances production of acrylates in Germany with green electricity
German firm Evonik’s Coating & Adhesive Resins Business Line has achieved a significant reduction in carbon emissions by powering the production of Degacryl specialty acrylates in Darmstadt with electricity from renewable sources. This initiative, effective since the start of the year, results in CO2 savings of around 1,400 tonnes/year.
The shift to renewable energy aligns with the business line’s commitment to sustainability. “In addition to a strong focus on products that provide our customers with more sustainable solutions through the handprint, this also includes reducing the carbon footprint of Degacryl,” says Dr. Claudia Meister, Head of Specialty Acrylics.
With lower CO2 emissions, the business line is helping to achieve its own sustainability goals and at the same time meet market requirements: “Our customers are increasingly asking for sustainably manufactured products. We can now support our customers even better in this area and reduce our Scope 1/2 emissions at the same time,” says Meister.
The supply of electricity from renewable energy sources is ensured via green electricity certificates and special supply contracts known as Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
The integration of green electricity into the production process is another building block in the more sustainable production of specialty acrylates. For many years, the steam necessary for production has been sourced from a local waste-to-energy plant, utilizing waste heat to generate additional value.
The specialty acrylates produced in Darmstadt are used in a wide range of applications. In the packaging industry, they are essential for heat-sealing lacquers used in dairy products packaging, among others, promoting the creation of eco-friendly packaging solutions. In addition, these acrylates play a crucial role in the medical sector as a raw material in dental prostheses and bone cement, as well as in adhesive applications.
