Braskem Opens Its Renewable Innovation Center in Massachusetts

Braskem, a large polyolefins producer in the Americas, as well as a pioneer producer of biopolymers on an industrial scale, announced the opening of its Renewable Innovation Center located in Lexington, Mass. Braskem's new 35,000-square-foot innovation center will accelerate innovation in renewable chemicals and materials. Capabilities at the new center will expand Braskem's competencies in biotechnology, catalysis, and process engineering. A particular focus will be given to early-stage science and engineering related to the conversion of biomass-based feedstocks, including sugars, cellulose, plant oils, and lignin, to sustainable chemicals and materials. This will enhance Braskem's resources focused on the discovery of technologies that will drive new growth-oriented offerings centered around combating climate change. This innovation center is the latest expansion of Braskem's global Innovation & Technology footprint.

Mark Nikolich, CEO of Braskem America, stated "This is a great moment for Braskem and the bio-based industry as we continue to lead the change to a sustainable future. Braskem has a strong ambition to be a key player in carbon capturing through the production of materials with renewable raw materials. This innovation center even better positions Braskem to forge solutions that meet the needs of today and the future."

The new center is strategically based in Greater Boston's world-class biotechnology and innovation ecosystem, located within a one-hour drive of more than 60 universities and colleges. Work in the Renewable Innovation Center will complement Braskem's global research and development work currently being conducted in the U.S., Brazil, Mexico, and Germany.

From promoting plastic circularity to driving the bio-based materials revolution, Braskem is committed to diminishing the dependency on finite resources and reducing carbon emissions while generating a positive impact for a better society.