In order to meet the growing demand for biomaterials, DuPont Tate & Lyle Bio Products, LLC, a joint venture between DuPont and Tate & Lyle, announced an expansion to their facility in Tennessee to increase production of bio-based 1,3 propanediol (Bio-PDO™) by 35 percent. Construction is scheduled to start in June and the expansion is expected to be complete by second quarter 2011.

DuPont and Tate & Lyle’s factory in Tennessee

Formed in 2004, DuPont Tate & Lyle produces Bio-PDO from corn using a proprietary fermentation process. Bio-PDO is used as an ingredient in a variety of applications that have traditionally been based on petroleum. These range from cosmetics and personal care formulations to fluids and polymers, most notably DuPont Sorona renewably sourced polymer. Bio-PDO is sold under the Zemea® and Susterra® brands.

Zemea® applications

We are seeing strong demand for our renewable products,” said Steve Mirshak, president – DuPont Tate & Lyle Bio Products. “We had record sales last year and are already anticipating the need for additional capacity after just three years of operation.