• LG Chem has initiated prototype production of 100% bio-based acrylic acid, a product certified by the USDA BioPreferred^® program.
• Produced via microbial fermentation of 3HP from plant sources, this acrylic acid matches the performance of conventional varieties, offering a sustainable alternative for cosmetics and diaper materials.
• With an initial annual output of 100 metric tons, LG Chem plans to expand production based on market demand for eco-friendly materials.

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 12, 2025 — LG Chem is expanding into the global market with plant-derived, eco-friendly raw materials. The company reports that bio-acrylic acid production will begin in the second quarter of this year, starting with an annual prototype production capacity of 100 metric tons.

Bio-acrylic acid has diverse applications, including skin-contact cosmetic ingredients, super absorbent polymers (SAP) in diapers, adhesives for electronics and vehicles, coatings, and eco-friendly paints. While global efforts to develop bio-acrylic acid technology have been underway, LG Chem’s achievement marks the first successful commercialization.

LG Chem’s bio-acrylic acid is derived from 3-Hydroxypropionic acid (3HP), created through microbial fermentation of plant materials. This process yields a product with the identical molecular structure and properties as conventional acrylic acid, but with a 100% plant-based origin.

LG Chem’s in-house development of its 3HP strain and fermentation technology earned it the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Certified Biobased Product label last year, verifying its 100% bio-based composition.

The company will begin by producing prototypes and actively market the product to sustainability-focused businesses in North America and Europe. The cosmetics sector, with its growing demand for plant-based ingredients without compromising performance, is a prime target market.

LG Chem intends to operate a flexible bio-acrylic acid production system to promptly meet customer demand and is prepared to expand its facilities if market demand warrants it.

“We anticipate bio-acrylic acid to be a groundbreaking product that addresses both customer and market sustainability needs. We remain committed to spearheading the advancement of eco-friendly technologies,” stated Song Byung-Keun, Senior Vice President and Head of Acrylates/SAP Business Unit at LG Chem.

About LG Chem
LG Chem is a leading global chemical company with a diverse portfolio encompassing petrochemicals, advanced materials, and life sciences. The company produces a wide range of products, from high-value petrochemicals and renewable plastics to cutting-edge electronic and battery materials, as well as pharmaceuticals and vaccines. LG Chem is dedicated to achieving carbon-neutral growth by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050 through climate change mitigation and societal contributions via renewable energy and sustainable supply chains. Headquartered in Seoul, Korea, LG Chem operates globally and reported consolidated revenue of KRW 48.9 trillion (USD 33.6 billion) in 2024. For more information, please visit .

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SOURCE LG Chem

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