While the initial application focuses on PET due to its large global market, Clariant’s titanium-based catalysts are compatible across the polyester family, including PETG, PCT, PBT, PTT, PBAT, TPEE, and emerging polyesters such as PEF. The catalysts function effectively as transesterification and polycondensation agents, enabling efficient polymerization processes.
The new technology marks a significant step forward in polyester production, offering improved operational performance while being safer for workers and the environment. It features lower environmental mobility and toxicity, reduced bioaccumulation risks, and eliminates the use of heavy metals in production.
“Our AddWorks titanium-based catalyst technology marks an important shift in polyester manufacturing,” said Mariano Suarez, Head of Marketing Additives at Clariant. “By enabling lower processing temperatures and eliminating heavy metals from the production process, we are helping our customers achieve their sustainability goals while simultaneously improving their operational efficiency and product quality.”
The innovation comes at a critical time for the polyester industry, which faces supply uncertainties following China’s 2024 antimony export controls. As a major supplier of antimony—a key component in traditional catalysts—China’s restrictions have created challenges for polyester manufacturers worldwide. Clariant’s titanium-based solutions remove this dependency while delivering superior color performance, an essential factor for packaging, textiles, and other consumer applications.
Clariant’s water-stable formulation ensures consistent catalytic activity without deactivation or unwanted by-products, enabling reliable polymer quality, higher productivity, reduced downtime, and smoother production runs. Economically, the technology can deliver CAPEX and OPEX benefits through higher production capacity, lower energy consumption, and reduced wastewater treatment costs. These improvements align with industry trends toward more efficient and cost-effective manufacturing.
“We developed this technology with a dual focus on sustainability and performance,” said Emilie Meddah, Market Manager Additives at Clariant. “Our customers are increasingly facing pressure from regulators and consumers to reduce environmental impact without compromising product quality. AddWorks titanium-based catalyst solutions address both concerns simultaneously, offering a truly future-proof option for polyester production.”
The solution is especially relevant for polyester resin manufacturers, fiber producers, PET recyclers, and technology licensors seeking differentiation in a sustainability-conscious market. By enabling heavy metal-free polyester production, Clariant’s technology also supports brand owners in meeting evolving consumer demands and regulatory requirements, providing a reliable, efficient, and environmentally responsible catalyst solution for the polyester sector.
