Sasol Chemicals and Holiferm Ltd. have announced a partnership to jointly develop new biosurfactants and enable the broad commercialization of sophorolipids. The financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
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As part of the partnership, Sasol Chemicals will purchase the majority of sophorolipids produced at a new Holiferm manufacturing facility in the United Kingdom and fund Holiferm research and development to help meet the growing demand for sustainable solutions in primary surfactants. The Holiferm process for creating biosurfactants offers an extensive reduction in carbon footprint compared to conventional surfactants, according to the company.
Silke Hoppe, vice president of essential care chemicals for Sasol Chemicals, said, “We are increasingly using bio-based raw materials to make our products, as we work with our customers to develop solutions that in turn make their products more sustainable. The Holiferm expertise in fermentation technology and production is a perfect fit with Sasol’s position as a global leader in the supply of surfactants and surfactant intermediates into the fabric and home care, personal care as well as industrial and institutional cleaning markets.”
Richard Lock, managing director of Holiferm, said, “We at Holiferm truly believe in the future of biosurfactants and fermentation technologies to reduce the dependence on fossil-based chemicals. The drive, passion and commitment Sasol Chemicals is showing with Holiferm Limited are a perfect fit, for both companies and the planet.”
