LETZero Encyclopedia is an introductory series to LG Chem’s eco-friendly materials brand, LETZero, and their products. Following the previous description of PCR ABS, this episode will depict the production and application of Bio-Circular Balanced NPG, a coating agent based on renewable plant-based raw materials.

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Bio-Circular Balanced NPG, obtained from waste cooking oil and palm byproducts

NPG (NeoPentylGlycol) is formed through the reaction of Iso-Butylaldehyde and Formaldehyde. The production involves condensation of NPG along with acids such as Adipic acid, Terephthalic acid, and Phthalic anhydride. A unique structural feature of NPG is the absence of hydrogen atom at the beta (β) position, which increases its thermal stability, weather-protection, and chemical-resistance. Also, NPG has a symmetrical molecular structure, which gives it extra thermal resistance and high reaction speed during the condensation process. These features allow NPG to be applied to polyester powder coating and other coating agents, and advantage of high chemical-resistance.

LG Chem surpassed traditional NPG based on chemical raw materials and developed Bio-Circular Balanced NPG based on bio raw materials such as waste cooking oil and palm byproducts. Bio-Circular Balanced NPG is a product obtained by replacing NPG’s chemical raw materials partly with renewable bio raw materials. Since 2020, LG Chem has been receiving bio raw materials supply from Finland-based bio diesel maker, Neste, to fill their eco-friendly product lineup. Bio-Circular Balanced NPG, an outcome of the company’s effort, has undergone a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and proven over 70% of carbon-reduction effect compared to traditional NPG. In succession, LG Chem acquired ISCC PLUS Certification in 2021, an international certification for eco-friendly bio products, which added weight to the company’s sustainable movement toward carbon reduction.

Applications of Bio-Circular Balanced NPG

Bio-Circular Balanced NPG can effectively replace the traditional NPG based on chemical raw materials. Its common usage includes powder coating sprayed to aluminum wheels on automobiles, PET films, and coating agents. Bio-Circular Balanced NPG has become an essential material in construction sites and home appliance coatings, owing to its high gloss, chemical-resistance, and weather-resistance to outdoor conditions such as sunlight, temperature, humidity, and rain. In January 2022, LG Chem celebrated their first export of Bio-Circular Balanced NPG. The product was shipped from LG Chem Yeosu Plant to Novaresine of Italy, and applied as coating agents to cans and coils. Since 1998, when LG Chem developed NPG with their proprietary technology, LG Chem has been pioneering the global eco-friendly materials market with their Bio-Circular Balanced NPG.

LG Chem’s Bio-Circular Balanced NPG leads the global eco-friendly materials market! Look forward to the next LETZero Encyclopedia on PCR PC!