Trio to produce bio-based superabsorbent polymers in Sri Lanka

Three companies are joining forces to build and operate a Sri Lankan processing facility which will manufacture bio-based superabsorbent polymers (SAPs). Traditionally produced from petroleum derivatives, SAPs are commonly used in food packaging, personal care products and industrial applications.

Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), CIC Holdings and Chemanex have formed the joint venture - Chemcel - and will build and operate the facility near Colombo.

ADM is the majority owner of the venture and will market the plant’s production of ADM’s BioSAP brand superabsorbents, which will be derived from starches obtained from agricultural feedstocks.

“The marketplace is eager for renewable, high-performance alternatives to petroleum-based superabsorbents,” said Chris Cuddy, president, ADM Sweeteners and Starches.

“The participants in this joint venture have considerable experience developing, manufacturing and marketing renewable chemicals from agricultural sources, so we’re optimistic about the value our collaboration will create for our customers.”

“Our companies have consistently looked at ways to add value to both domestic and imported agricultural products,” said BRL Fernando, chairman, CIC Holdings and Chemanex.

“This new joint venture offers us a technology platform that combines the research and development expertise of a major global agricultural processor with the available facilities and knowledge of CIC and Chemanex. This relationship would be a starting point in adding value for agricultural commodities produced locally, which in turn could help provide opportunities for stable incomes in our rural communities.”