Nanotechnology JV targets natural rubber products

ERJ staff report (PR)

Camberley, UK – Graphene NanoChem, a London AIM-listed nanochemicals and materials company, is to form a joint venture with Emery Advanced Materials to develop nano-tech additives for rubber, plastics and biolubricant products.

The venture is based on a heads of agreement, signed 7 April, by Graphene NanoChem subsidiary Platinum NanoChem Sdn Bhd and Emery Advanced Materials, part of Emery Oleochemicals Sdn Bhd of Shah Alam, Malaysia.

The deal is part of a Graphene NanoChem strategy to develop new applications for its graphene nanomaterials, which can improve properties such as strength, flexibility and conductivity in polymer materials.

The partners aim to jointly develop markets for "a new generation of ready-to-use graphene-enhanced speciality chemical additives" for selected markets. They estimate the combined market for the three target application areas at over $100bn (€73bn).

The JV also expects to leverage the position of Emery Oleochemicals as a major producer of oleochemical products derived from renewable sources.

Jespal Deol, CEO of Graphene NanoChem, said: "Working with Emery, which is headquartered in Malaysia, on rubber applications provides a natural advantage as Malaysia is one of the world's largest producers of natural rubber, and applications for thinner condoms and stronger medical gloves present immediate opportunities."

"We are currently developing the next generation of nanocarbon-based materials which can be used in various applications, from engineered rubber compounds to high performing polyurethane," added Ramesh Kana, senior vice president, Emery Oleochemicals and MD of Emery Advanced Materials.