Hexion starts using bio-based methanol

Hexion, the chemical company, has started using bio-based methanol in the production of formaldehyde. The bio-based fuel which can be made from feedstock mixes and technologies will ultimately help the company make more sustainable materials with lower emissions.

The formaldehyde will then use bio-benzene to produce methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), which will have more sustainable features compared with those produced with fossil fuel-based methanol.

Using renewable methanol cuts carbon dioxide emissions by up to 95%, reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 80%, and eliminates sulfur oxide and particulate matter emissions, according to the Methanol Institute.

The company says it will use the bio-based methanol in the formaldehyde production at its Baytown, Texas, manufacturing facility.

Hexion says the effort is part of its plan to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 20% through 2030.