AkzoNobel’s Specialty Chemicals business is studying plans to build a new plant for its Bermocoll ethyl hydroxy-ethyl cellulose (EHEC) ethers in order to meet growing global demand.

The study is expected to be completed by the end of 2017. A number of locations are being considered for the facility, including options to expand operations at the company’s existing production sites.

“Demand for Bermocoll is growing strongly due to the rising consumption of water-based paint and continued growth in the building and construction industry,” explained Geert Hofman, general manager of the Bermocoll business.

AkzoNobel said Bermocoll products provide several benefits for water-based coatings, including improved viscosity, spatter and sag resistance, better color stability and hiding power. They are also used as an ingredient in dry-mix mortars where they are said to improve adhesion, flexibility, water-retention and workability.

In a separate announcement, the Dutch group said it has signed an agreement with Itaconix (previously Revolymer) to evaluate and develop bio-based chelates for use in consumer and industrial detergents and cleaners.

The deal is the second partnership stemming from an agreement signed in January to develop and commercialize products made from renewable feedstocks based on Itaconix technology.

“Bio-based chelates show promise for use in laundry detergents, bathroom cleaners and other consumer and commercial cleaning products. They are replacements for phosphates, which are being phased out due to environmental concerns,” said Peter Kuijpers, general manager, chelates and micronutrients at AkzoNobel.

John Shaw, president of Itaconix US and Global Homecare added that its success to date in North America and Europe demonstrates the breakthrough potential of its novel bio-based technology.