In alkyd synthesis, benzoic acid acts as a building block and chain terminator, giving the final film gloss, adhesion, hardness, and chemical resistance. In addition, the chemical protects against corrosion and flash rust when formulated into products such as automotive coolants and architectural coatings. As a special additive, benzoic acid is used in the manufacture of high-strength HDPE filaments and thermoplastic elastomers, improves the finish of synthetic polyester fibers, and acts as a temporary plugging agent in subterranean formations for downhole mud drilling. The product is readily biodegradable and approved for use under green label certifications such as the EU Ecolabel, Cosmos, and Nordic Swan.
Versatile benzaldehyde
Benzaldehyde is a useful aromatic aldehyde for industrial applications. It is often used as a non-reactive diluent in epoxy resin coatings to reduce viscosity and increase product flexibility. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Lanxess has had five production sites certified to ISCC+ for this product line. The mass balance method for raw materials is used, which significantly reduces the products’ carbon footprint (PCF) while maintaining their original properties and premium quality. In addition, Lanxess already uses renewable energy at selected sites and is thus able to reduce its own Scope 1&2 emissions. Verified PCF data, calculated according to a method certified by TÜV Rheinland, ensures transparency and accuracy. The calculations follow the ISO 14067 standards and the guidelines of the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).
Enhanced process efficiency and sustainability
Lewatit ion exchange resins play a crucial role in various industrial applications by enhancing process efficiency and sustainability. Lewatit catalysts facilitate various chemical reactions to yield important intermediates such as bisphenol A for polycarbonate production or to access highly pure silicon for semiconductors. In the recycling and purification of battery materials (lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper) and the recovery of valuable metals (palladium, platinum, etc.) from wastewater, the resins enable the circular use of pivotal resources, minimizing waste and raw material demand. Tailor-made Lewatit types employed in the removal of harmful substances such as PFAS from groundwater also help contributing to a cleaner environment and a responsible use of water. Within the last few years, Lanxess’ efforts to enable sustainability have been complemented by the Lewatit Scopeblue product family consisting of ion exchange resins with carbon dioxide footprints reduced by up to 60% compared to their conventional counterparts.
Polymer additives as basis for complex molecules
Lanxess’ portfolio of polymer additives includes a large variety of products such as flame retardants, plasticizers, high performance colorants, and hydrolysis stabilizers, as well as phosphorus- and bromine-based agrochemicals, pharmaceutical precursors, fine chemicals and solutions for water treatment as well as additives for high performance rubbers, polymers and biocides.
The company is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of bromine, brominated intermediates and phosphorus chemicals, which serve as building blocks for the production of complex molecules. Customers benefit from a global purchasing network, which ensures sustainable access to the required raw materials, particularly through the backward integration into bromine.
Industrial intermediates, chemical base materials and fine chemicals
In the area of intermediates, chemical base materials and fine chemicals, Lanxess combines long-standing production expertise with innovative development and global supply chain capabilities. The portfolio includes chlorobenzenes and cresols, which are used in agrochemicals, fragrances and flavors, animal feed, food, and high-tech plastics. It also includes specialty amines and high-quality toluidines with a wide range of applications.
The company’s phosphorus specialties are used, among other applications, as solvents and catalysts in chemical synthesis.
Organometallic compounds from Lanxess are essential for the production of polymers, fine chemicals, semiconductors, photovoltaic modules, and anti-corrosion coatings.
Lanxess’ inorganic acids, such as hydrofluoric acid, are used in the production of pharmaceuticals, agricultural applications, and lithium batteries, among other things. The portfolio also includes hydrazine hydrate and thionyl chloride, both of which are important chemicals in the synthesis of crop protection agents. And the company’s high-quality basic and fine chemicals, including polyols such as trimethylolpropane and oxidation products such as hexanediol and adipic acid, are used in the manufacture of polyester resins, coatings and construction material additives.
