Expancel® BIO Microspheres

Partially biobased microsphere product concept

The future of microspheres starts now

In a world where environmental responsibility and product performance need to go hand in hand, we are introducing our first-generation, partially biobased microsphere product concept.

We call it Expancel® BIO microspheres.

This groundbreaking product concept for expandable microspheres marks a significant advancement in innovation. Expancel® BIO microspheres provides a partially biobased, high-performance lightweight filler and blowing agent that addresses the evolving needs of the market and promotes the principles of a circular economy.

Expancel® BIO microspheres is designed to reduce reliance on fossil-based materials by replacing up to 55% with renewable sourced alternatives. It combines eco-friendliness with high performance by reducing material weight and enhancing properties, while helping to meet stringent regulations. This supports the global shift towards eco-friendly and responsible production practices.

Biobased polymer shell: Engineered with a partially biobased polymer shell, the microsphere has a cellulose ester backbone with substituents of acetate and/or propionate.

Low density: Expancel® BIO microspheres features low density, making it an excellent lightweight filler, which helps reduce the weight of end products.

Explore the future of microspheres

Contact us to learn more about the product concept and be among the first to test Expancel® BIO microspheres for your application.

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Designed to meet diverse market needs

Four innovative prototypes have been developed to meet various application needs. These prototypes feature different bio carbon content levels, with the polymer shell being the primary source of bio carbon, thanks to its cellulosic backbone.

The Expancel® BIO microspheres can be utilized in numerous processes, such as acting as blowing agents, lightweight filler, void makers, or for rheology adjustment.

It is designed to enhance performance across a broad spectrum of industries, including coatings, adhesives, construction materials, automotive components, shoe soles, and porous ceramics.

The four prototypes

 

  • Expancel® BIO 110 DEP features 55%
    biobased content, making it an excellent lightweight filler.
  • Expancel® BIO 111 DEP is designed for
    robustness in tough process conditions.
  • Expancel® BIO 111 DU offers 30-40% biobased content
    with expandable capabilities.
  • Expancel® BIO 121 DU provides similar biobased content
    and expandable properties.

Let's collaborate on the future of microspheres

Contact us to discuss and evaluate the benefits of the microsphere product concept for your applications.

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Get in touch!

Please contact our Expancel® microspheres experts.
We look forward to hearing from you.
For our existing customers, please log in to our MyNouryon customer portal.

Expancel® is a registered trademark of Nouryon in a number of territories worldwide.

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