DuPont and Tate & Lyle Form Bio-Products Joint Venture

DuPont Tate & Lyle Bio Products, LLC, a joint venture between DuPont and Tate & Lyle, today announced an expansion to their facility here to increase production of bio-based 1,3 propanediol (Bio-PDO™) by 35 percent. Construction is scheduled to start in June and the expansion is expected to be complete by second quarter 2011. The expansion will bring over 130 construction and engineering jobs to the region.

Formed in 2004, DuPont Tate & Lyle produces Bio-PDO™ from corn instead of petroleum-based feedstock using a proprietary fermentation process. Bio-PDO™ is used as an ingredient in materials in a variety of applications that have traditionally been based on petroleum. These range from cosmetics and personal care formulations to fluids and polymers, most notably DuPont™ Sorona® renewably sourced polymer. Bio-PDO™ is sold under the Zemea® and Susterra® brands.

“We are seeing strong demand for our renewable products,” said Steve Mirshak, president – DuPont Tate & Lyle Bio Products. “We had record sales last year and are already anticipating the need for additional capacity after just three years of operation. This expansion is proof that cutting-edge industrial biotechnology can deliver products that meet the needs of industry and consumers while contributing to a smaller environmental footprint.”

“In 2004, DuPont and Tate & Lyle formed a partnership because of a shared vision of bringing renewably sourced products to market,” said Craig F. Binetti, president – DuPont Applied BioSciences. “This expansion is an important milestone in how superior performing, cost-effective products, which reduce reliance on fossil fuels, are creating a viable bio-based business.”

“The continued success of the joint venture is built upon not only groundbreaking technology, but also excellent operational capabilities,” said Matthew Wineinger, president – Tate & Lyle Food and Industrial Ingredients, Americas. “Combining the strengths of both parents allows the joint venture to focus on their vision of bringing renewable ingredients to their customers across the globe.”

Tate & Lyle is a world-leading renewable food and industrial ingredients company, serving a global market from more than 45 production facilities throughout the Americas, Europe and South East Asia. Our efficient, large-scale manufacturing plants turn agricultural products, corn and cane sugar, into valuable ingredients for our customers.

DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions. Operating in approximately 80 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.