Rhodia collaborates with public research bodies to focus on green chemistry

The agreement has been signed to strengthen scientific operations between China and France, and to focus on green chemistry.

Rhodia claims this agreement will develop common research on materials and processes based on eco-design principles and renewable raw materials.

It hopes this is the first step in a long structured collaboration in which it can work with its partners to strengthen research into innovative products.

The aim is to research innovative materials such as new polymers or surfactants based on natural raw materials and to develop new and more efficient eco-friendly catalytic processes.

Green chemistry the catalyst for research​

In 1998 the idea of green chemistry was introduced by Paul Anastas, Director of Yale Centre for green chemistry​ and green engineering, initially publishing 12 principles of green chemistry.

These principles aimed to avoid contamination and waste, make maximum use of renewable materials to ensure that all products are biodegradable and to use the energy needed for reactions as efficiently as possible.

Since then 12 more principles were added, and have been used by organisations around the world to balance their environmental goals, economical viability and product performance and convenience.

Many companies, like Rhodia, have used these principles to set themselves ‘green’ objectives.

Focusing on sustainable strategy​

A third of Rhodia’s sales are from products that aid its customers in reducing their environmental footprint, and 90 per cent of its major innovative projects are related to sustainable development.

The chemical firm has had a presence in China for 30 years, with one of its five main research centres operating in Shanghai, where the East China Normal University is situated.

At this centre, Rhodia develop new products to match the needs of its Chinese customers, with one of the focus areas being the formulation of personal care applications.