Ascend produces Nylon 6,6 from used cooking oil

Ascend Performance Materials has made a significant breakthrough by producing nylon 6,6 with a 25% reduced carbon footprint, using feedstock sourced from used cooking oil. This innovation falls under their Bioserve portfolio, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability in the textile industry. Utilizing an ISCC Plus-certified mass-balance approach, Ascend ensures that these bio-circular materials perform on par with traditional virgin materials while maintaining industrial-scale production capabilities.

According to the company, this initiative not only addresses the growing demand for sustainable materials but also meets the diverse needs of its customers without compromising on performance. The production facilities in the U.S. have received ISCC Plus certification, allowing them to effectively manage bio-based and circular materials.

Alex Mihut, Ascend’s vice president for performance chemicals, emphasized the company’s focus on developing technical solutions to meet customer challenges. He noted that the mass-balance approach is key to scaling production of sustainable materials while ensuring reliability in performance and quality.

Chris Johnson, the senior director for sustainability at Ascend, articulated the company’s commitment to sustainability, which is a cornerstone of their strategy dubbed “Operating Without Compromise.” This approach aims to deliver holistic solutions that align with customer goals, all while striving for the lowest possible product carbon footprint in industrial-grade nylon 6,6 and its precursors available today.

Ascend’s advances in nylon production illustrate a significant leap toward environmentally responsible manufacturing practices in the textile sector, positioning the company as a leader in sustainable solutions.