After EU antitrust requirements ended the joint venture between the cellulose acetate activities of US supplier Celanese (Dallas, Texas; www.celanese.com) and Germany's Rhodia Acetow (Freiburg; www.rhodia-acetow.com), which is owned by financial investor Blackstone (see Plasteurope.com of 03.04.2018), the Americans are now apparently setting a new course. One indication is the market launch of the bio-based and biodegradable cellulose acetate granules of the new “Blueridge” line by a group known for its focus on engineering materials.

The transparent and opaque materials are designed for processing in standard injection moulding machines, and target applications such as tableware, lids, containers and packaging. Celanese said it is focusing on “products that are difficult to recycle”. In comparison to equivalent biopolymers, Blueridge granules are said to come with better mechanical properties and increased temperature resistance. The company explained that the products are meant to decompose into vinegar and glucose during biodegradation.

Celanese's production capacity for cellulose acetate is around 300,000 t/y and is used to manufacture cigarette filters and plastic packaging. According to a spokesperson, a divestment of the smallest material area, even in parts, as it was planned through the Rhodia joint venture, is “completely off the table for now”.