AsiaNanoTech Succeeds in Developing a New Biodegradable Material

Environment Daily · 2021.04.12

AsiaNanoTech (CEO Dong-gyu Ahn) announced that it has developed SAC (Super Absorbent Cellulose), an eco-friendly plant-based super absorbent that dramatically improves the low absorption and water-retention capacity of existing biodegradable materials. It is the world's first biodegradable material able to match the properties of chemical absorbents.

The 100% biodegradable material combines glucose from cellulose in woody and non-woody plants with starch-based glucose. As a single material, it delivers properties equivalent to synthetic SAP and keeps its absorbency after processing.

The company expects a major impact on diapers, sanitary pads, ice packs, meat pads and food pads, and sees potential in plastic bags, disposable cups and mask nonwovens as single-use regulations tighten, especially in the EU. The chemical absorbent market is about 3 million tons a year and growing by close to 10% annually.

AsiaNanoTech planned prototype evaluations with customers in 2021, targeting mass production in 2022. CEO Ahn said the company would focus its R&D on eco-friendly materials to lead resource circulation and ecosystem protection.

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