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Creating a non-hazardous polymerisation catalyst
The challenge
Cobalt octoate is given a more stringent reproductive toxicity classification.
The ECHA (European Chemicals Agency) had given cobalt octoate – a free form of cobalt – a more stringent reproductive toxicity classification. This led to a reclassification of nearly all commonly used cobalt-based catalyst products. In the long term, further restrictions for cobalt octoate are expected, which would for cobalt octoate are expected, which would stop its use in consumer products.
As a result, the industry faces the challenge of finding a suitable replacement without compromising performance or without having to modify the whole production chain.
As a result, the industry faces the challenge of finding a suitable replacement without compromising performance or without having to modify the whole production chain.
Our innovative approach
Preparing for future restrictions, our customer asked for support in replacing the cobalt octoate-based polymerisation catalyst crucial to their process.
IMCD was able to offer the customer an excellent alternative: a polymerisation catalyst with a non-hazardous profile, containing cobalt “bound” in a polymeric structure. In cooperation with its principal, IMCD also developed several custom-made mix accelerators based on this non-hazardous catalyst.
These bespoke 1:1 drop-in solutions allowed the customer to replace reclassified cobalt carboxylate complexes without having to modify current formulations.
The outcome
Thanks to the complex matrix polymer structure of the innovative products, the structure of cobalt carboxylates could be realised by 100%, with non-hazardous characteristics and the highest level of environmental performance.
After a very successful introduction and a series of production trials, the customer has started to launch this sustainable solution in its worldwide facilities with the support of IMCD’s experts and widespread presence.
After a very successful introduction and a series of production trials, the customer has started to launch this sustainable solution in its worldwide facilities with the support of IMCD’s experts and widespread presence.