Covation Biomaterials shifts focus to next-gen materials

Delaware-based Covation Biomaterials has announced plans to sell its stake in the Primient Covation business, which produces 100 percent bio-based 1,3 propanediol (BioPDO). Following the sale, Primient will continue to supply BioPDO to CovationBio under a long-term agreement. The material will be used in the production of Sorona polymer, a partially bio-based fibre that is widely used in apparel and home textile products.

CovationBio Chief Executive Officer Steven Ackerman said that BioPDO was first introduced into the business 25 years ago through Sorona polymer. He explained that while BioPDO remains an important material, the company now sees it as part of a broader range of sustainable solutions. Selling the business will allow CovationBio to invest more deeply in future material innovations.

As part of this transition, CovationBio is preparing to launch its newest product, bioPTMEG, later this year. The material is a second-generation polyether glycol made from corn cobs and is set to enter the commercial market.

According to the company, bioPTMEG can be used as a more sustainable replacement for petroleum-based polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG). It is suitable for products that commonly rely on spandex, polyurethanes and thermoplastic elastomers, including sports and performance apparel, footwear components, industrial elastics and automotive parts.

CovationBio is best known for Sorona, a fibre made with 37 percent plant-based content that was launched in 2000. Since then, it has been widely adopted in clothing and home furnishings due to its softness, stretch and durability, as well as its ability to remain warm yet breathable in applications such as activewear and outerwear.