- Email: [email protected]
Catalytica 3Q 2002: Financial highlights
F O C U S won Department of Energy funding for research into producing ethanol and other chemicals from biomass. The $80 M in funding will be matched by industry partners. DuPont and several partners will get $18.3 M to develop a biorefinery that converts corn into ethanol and chemicals such as 1,3propanediol. Ethanol producer High Plains Corp and enzyme company Novozymes will receive $17 M to develop a similar plant for converting waste such as corn stover into ethanol and high-protein feed. Cargill and Codexis will develop a portfolio of products based on 3-hydroxypropionic acid made by carbohydrate fermentation. Cargill will also work with Shell and enzymes producer Iogen on a pilot-scale biorefinery. Chemical and Engineering News, 4 Nov 2002, 80 (44), 11
Nanomaterials: a big market potential Materials containing nanoparticles are already available in commercial products. Such products promise a multi-billion dollar market to established chemical companies investing in nanomaterials production and to the many start-up companies now entering the field to meet the expected demand. The nanomaterials business comprises three lines: nanoclays, nanoscale oxides and metals, and carbon nanotubes. The nanomaterials market is expected to grow 12.8%/y to $900 M by 2005, with silica accounting for 43.9%, alumina 18.5%, metals 14.9%, and titania 6.2%. The largest applications at present are chemical mechanical planarization, magnetic recording tapes, sunscreens, auto catalyst supports, biolabelling, electroconductive coatings, and optical fibres. The market is dominated by simple metal oxides. Markets are opening up for cerium and zirconium oxides as well as for mixed oxides. Chemical Week, 16 Oct 2002, 164 (41), 17-18,20-21
US market for near-net-shape ceramic products The US market for near-net-shape ceramic products is projected to climb from an estimated $2.4 bn in 2001 to $3.1 bn by 2006. Electrical ceramics products based on near-net-shape
2
O N
C ATA LY S T S
processes account for 65% of the total, while chemical products such as catalytic supports and filters account for 22%. The remaining 13% share is represented by ceramic products such as engine parts, cutting tools, wear parts, and heat exchangers. A table shows US market value of ceramic products fabricated using near-netshape processes. Industrial Ceramics, May-Aug 2002, 22 (2), 138
Fuel cell market for large-scale use to reach $642 M The current fuel cell market for largescale application in North America is pegged at about $251 M and is forecast to grow by 20.7%/y to reach $642 M by 2007, based on a report from Business Communications Co Inc. The industry, which comprises over 1000 companies worldwide, is counting on new proton exchange membrane fuel cells and solid oxide fuel cells to make fuel cells “the” alternative power source. Transportation applications are expected to account for 44% of fuel cells’ value for large applications by 2007.
COMPANY NEWS Air Products and JM unite to market monolith catalysts Air Products and Chemicals Inc has announced that a Marketing Agreement has been signed with Johnson Matthey to commercialize its proprietary monolith catalyst-based process technology: the Monolith Loop Reactor (MLR). The technology has been developed specifically for the speciality chemicals market. Air Products has developed a unique and economical process solution that brings many of the advantages of fixed bed catalytic processes to the smaller-scale chemical producer. The combination of the attributes and robustness of the MLR technology, along with the catalyst capabilities of JM, provides a unique new technology package for the chemical manufacturer. Press release from Johnson Matthey, 2-4 Cockspur Street, Trafalgar Square, London SW1Y 5BQ, UK. Tel: +44 20 7269 8400. Fax: +44 20 7269 8433. Website: http://www.matthey.com (15 Nov 2002)
Hydrocarbon Processing, Oct 2002, 81 (10), 27
Nanotechnology at BASF: a big future for small particles Austria proposes system for leasing chemicals Proposals for chemical companies to lease certain products, such as catalysts and chlorinated solvents, to customers and making the chemical companies responsible for the recovery of the substances after use, has been announced by the environment ministry in Austria. Subsidies could be offered to companies if they adopt the system. A pilot leasing scheme is to begin shortly. Chemical industry customers could reduce costs by 10-15% as they would avoid the need for a high-level of expertise in safe chemicals handling. If the scheme is introduced in Austria, the 3900 companies which currently consume 153,000 tonne/y chemicals could reduce consumption to around 100,000 tonne/y. The chemicals leasing scheme is to be discussed by the OECD in Paris during Nov 2003. Chemical Week, 20-27 Nov 2002, 164 (46), 18
BASF is using nanotechnology to improve its existing range of products and services for customers, to create new products, and to develop existing ones. It is conducting research into the characterization and production of new nanomaterials. These materials are usually integrated into new products to improve their performance profile or create completely new properties. The technology is nothing new to BASF – it has been making products based on nanoparticles and nanostructures for decades. Pigments are among the best-known examples. Aqueous polymer dispersions also contain nanometre-sized particles. Press release from BASF AG, 67056 Ludwigshafen, Germany. Tel: +49 621 600. Fax: +49 621 6020129. Website: http://www.basf-ag.de (31 Oct 2002)
Catalytica 3Q 2002: Financial highlights For 3Q 2002 (ends 30 Sep 2002) Catalytica Energy Systems Inc has
JANUARY 2003
F O C U S reported turnover of $1.497 M ($1.177 M in 3Q 2001), R&D costs of $3.489 M ($3.804 M), an operating loss of $4.176 M (operating loss of $6.288 M), a net loss of $3.896 M (net loss of $5.860 M), and a loss per share of $0.22 (loss per share $0.37). For the nine months to 30 Sep 2002 Catalytica Energy Systems Inc has reported turnover of $3.369 M ($4.835 M in Jan-Sep 2001), R&D costs of $10.548 M ($11.412 M), an operating loss of $15.413 M (operating loss of $13.919 M), a net loss of $14.443 M (net loss of $12.456 M), and a loss per share of $0.82 (loss per share $0.90).There is a discussion of the results. Catalytica 3Q Results 2002, 4 Nov 2002, 1-3 (Catalytica Energy Systems Inc, 430 Ferguson Drive, Bldg 3, Mountain View, CA 94043, USA. Tel: +1 650 960 3000. Website: http://www.catalyticaenergy.com)
Danisco and Direvo sign enzyme development collaboration Direvo Biotech AG (Direvo) and Danisco A/S announced the signing of a collaboration agreement under which both parties will develop an industrial enzyme. Under the terms of the agreement, Danisco will obtain worldwide exclusive rights to commercialize the products developed under this collaboration. In return, Direvo will receive R&D funding, milestone payments, and royalties on future product sales. Direvo Biotech AG, based in Cologne, is a leading company in screeningbased directed evolution and applies its integrated proprietary technologies to the development of better biopharmaceuticals and improved industrial enzymes. Danisco A/S develops and produces functional ingredients, sweeteners, and sugar. Press release from Direvo Biotech AG, Nattermannallee 1, D-50829 Köln, Germany. Fax: +49 221 8887 111. Website: http://www.direvo.com (26 Nov 2002)
Engelhard 3Q 2002 results: Environmental Technologies Operating earnings from Engelhard Corp’s Environmental Technologies declined 43% in 3Q 2002 to $20 M. Sales increased 6% to $158 M as increased revenue from the automotive market was partly offset by lower demand from the powergeneration market. Earnings declined
JANUARY 2003
O N
C ATA LY S T S
in comparison with unusually strong results in 3Q 2001, combined with significantly higher costs in 3Q 2002 resulting primarily from higher manufacturing costs, including rework for power-generation applications, plus 2002’s increased development and startup costs related to new technologies for diesel engines. Engelhard 3Q 2002 Report, 24 Oct 2002, 2 (Engelhard Corp, Iselin, NJ, USA, Website: http://www.engelhard.com)
Engelhard 3Q 2002 results: Process Technologies Operating earnings from Engelhard Corp’s Process Technologies declined 13% in 3Q 2002 to $21 M. Sales were $126 M, down from $131 M in 3Q 2001. Sales continued to be impacted by lower volumes in some chemical markets and lower precious metals prices, which are passed through to customers. Strong results from refining, polyolefins, and gas-toliquids markets, driven by demand for new products, were offset by weak demand in other core chemical process markets. Engelhard 3Q 2002 Report, 24 Oct 2002, 2 (Engelhard Corp, Iselin, NJ, USA, Website: http://www.engelhard.com)
INEOS Silicas Netherlands: short profile A short profile is presented of INEOS Silicas Netherlands BV (formerly Crosfield BV), part of Ineos Silicas, which has facilities throughout the world. Ineos Silicas employs around 900 workers, with around 170 workers based at Eijsden in The Netherlands, where more than 160,000 tonne/y silicates and zeolites are produced. These are prepared from raw materials such as sand, soda, soda lye, and aluminium hydroxide. Open Dag Chemie, 2 Nov 2002, 22 (VNCI (Association of the Dutch Chemical Industry), Vlietweg 16, Leidschendam, PO Box 443, 2260 AK Leidschendam, The Netherlands. Tel: +31 70 337 87 33. Fax: +31 70 320 84 38. Website: http://www.vnci.nl) (in Dutch)
Johnson Matthey Fuel Cells Ltd On 8 Nov 2002 Johnson Matthey announced that Anglo Platinum has taken a 17.5% stake in its fuel cell components subsidiary, Johnson Matthey Fuel Cells Ltd. Johnson Matthey and Anglo Platinum have for
many years collaborated on R&D into fuel cell components and enabling technologies, under a long-term agreement announced in May 1993. Anglo Platinum has agreed to contribute its share of the intellectual property rights and know-how which has been developed under that agreement, together with a £20 M payment, in return for the 17.5% stake in the new company. Johnson Matthey Fuel Cells Ltd will manufacture and market all the fuel cell components currently being developed by Johnson Matthey including membrane electrode assemblies, fuel processors, and fuel cell catalysts. It will continue to be managed as part of the Johnson Matthey group and purchase services from other parts of the group. The relationship with Anglo Platinum will also give the fuel cell business improved access to future platinum supplies. Press release from Johnson Matthey plc, UK. Website: http://www.matthey.com (8 Nov 2002) & Chemical Week, 20-27 Nov 2002, 164 (46), 16 & Chimie Hebdo, 18 Nov 2002, (192), 14 (in French)
Neozyme International enters into distribution agreement in NY Neozyme International Inc has recently signed a Distribution Agreement for the representation of its patented bio-organic catalysts within the state of New York. The primary focus will centre on EcoZyme, a Neozyme product that has proven very effective in eliminating the buildup of fats, oils, and greases (FOG) in all manner of collection systems, from residential and commercial plumbing drains to municipal sewers and lift stations. Press release from International Daleco Corp, 33 Journey, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656, USA. Tel: +1 949 360 4288 or +1 800 432 5326. Fax: +1 949 360 8774. Website: http://www.daleco.com (21 Nov 2002)
Novozymes results for Jan-Sep 2002 Novozymes A/S reported results for nine months of 2002. Net turnover increased by 8% to DKR 4190 M for nine months of 2002 (DKR 3882 M in nine months of 2001). Volumes, prices, and product mix in the market increased sales by 11% in nine months of 2002. Profit after taxation was DKR 452 M for nine months of
3
Nanomaterials: a big market potential Materials containing nanoparticles are already available in commercial products. Such products promise a multi-billion dollar market to established chemical companies investing in nanomaterials production and to the many start-up companies now entering the field to meet the expected demand. The nanomaterials business comprises three lines: nanoclays, nanoscale oxides and metals, and carbon nanotubes. The nanomaterials market is expected to grow 12.8%/y to $900 M by 2005, with silica accounting for 43.9%, alumina 18.5%, metals 14.9%, and titania 6.2%. The largest applications at present are chemical mechanical planarization, magnetic recording tapes, sunscreens, auto catalyst supports, biolabelling, electroconductive coatings, and optical fibres. The market is dominated by simple metal oxides. Markets are opening up for cerium and zirconium oxides as well as for mixed oxides. Chemical Week, 16 Oct 2002, 164 (41), 17-18,20-21
US market for near-net-shape ceramic products The US market for near-net-shape ceramic products is projected to climb from an estimated $2.4 bn in 2001 to $3.1 bn by 2006. Electrical ceramics products based on near-net-shape
2
O N
C ATA LY S T S
processes account for 65% of the total, while chemical products such as catalytic supports and filters account for 22%. The remaining 13% share is represented by ceramic products such as engine parts, cutting tools, wear parts, and heat exchangers. A table shows US market value of ceramic products fabricated using near-netshape processes. Industrial Ceramics, May-Aug 2002, 22 (2), 138
Fuel cell market for large-scale use to reach $642 M The current fuel cell market for largescale application in North America is pegged at about $251 M and is forecast to grow by 20.7%/y to reach $642 M by 2007, based on a report from Business Communications Co Inc. The industry, which comprises over 1000 companies worldwide, is counting on new proton exchange membrane fuel cells and solid oxide fuel cells to make fuel cells “the” alternative power source. Transportation applications are expected to account for 44% of fuel cells’ value for large applications by 2007.
COMPANY NEWS Air Products and JM unite to market monolith catalysts Air Products and Chemicals Inc has announced that a Marketing Agreement has been signed with Johnson Matthey to commercialize its proprietary monolith catalyst-based process technology: the Monolith Loop Reactor (MLR). The technology has been developed specifically for the speciality chemicals market. Air Products has developed a unique and economical process solution that brings many of the advantages of fixed bed catalytic processes to the smaller-scale chemical producer. The combination of the attributes and robustness of the MLR technology, along with the catalyst capabilities of JM, provides a unique new technology package for the chemical manufacturer. Press release from Johnson Matthey, 2-4 Cockspur Street, Trafalgar Square, London SW1Y 5BQ, UK. Tel: +44 20 7269 8400. Fax: +44 20 7269 8433. Website: http://www.matthey.com (15 Nov 2002)
Hydrocarbon Processing, Oct 2002, 81 (10), 27
Nanotechnology at BASF: a big future for small particles Austria proposes system for leasing chemicals Proposals for chemical companies to lease certain products, such as catalysts and chlorinated solvents, to customers and making the chemical companies responsible for the recovery of the substances after use, has been announced by the environment ministry in Austria. Subsidies could be offered to companies if they adopt the system. A pilot leasing scheme is to begin shortly. Chemical industry customers could reduce costs by 10-15% as they would avoid the need for a high-level of expertise in safe chemicals handling. If the scheme is introduced in Austria, the 3900 companies which currently consume 153,000 tonne/y chemicals could reduce consumption to around 100,000 tonne/y. The chemicals leasing scheme is to be discussed by the OECD in Paris during Nov 2003. Chemical Week, 20-27 Nov 2002, 164 (46), 18
BASF is using nanotechnology to improve its existing range of products and services for customers, to create new products, and to develop existing ones. It is conducting research into the characterization and production of new nanomaterials. These materials are usually integrated into new products to improve their performance profile or create completely new properties. The technology is nothing new to BASF – it has been making products based on nanoparticles and nanostructures for decades. Pigments are among the best-known examples. Aqueous polymer dispersions also contain nanometre-sized particles. Press release from BASF AG, 67056 Ludwigshafen, Germany. Tel: +49 621 600. Fax: +49 621 6020129. Website: http://www.basf-ag.de (31 Oct 2002)
Catalytica 3Q 2002: Financial highlights For 3Q 2002 (ends 30 Sep 2002) Catalytica Energy Systems Inc has
JANUARY 2003
F O C U S reported turnover of $1.497 M ($1.177 M in 3Q 2001), R&D costs of $3.489 M ($3.804 M), an operating loss of $4.176 M (operating loss of $6.288 M), a net loss of $3.896 M (net loss of $5.860 M), and a loss per share of $0.22 (loss per share $0.37). For the nine months to 30 Sep 2002 Catalytica Energy Systems Inc has reported turnover of $3.369 M ($4.835 M in Jan-Sep 2001), R&D costs of $10.548 M ($11.412 M), an operating loss of $15.413 M (operating loss of $13.919 M), a net loss of $14.443 M (net loss of $12.456 M), and a loss per share of $0.82 (loss per share $0.90).There is a discussion of the results. Catalytica 3Q Results 2002, 4 Nov 2002, 1-3 (Catalytica Energy Systems Inc, 430 Ferguson Drive, Bldg 3, Mountain View, CA 94043, USA. Tel: +1 650 960 3000. Website: http://www.catalyticaenergy.com)
Danisco and Direvo sign enzyme development collaboration Direvo Biotech AG (Direvo) and Danisco A/S announced the signing of a collaboration agreement under which both parties will develop an industrial enzyme. Under the terms of the agreement, Danisco will obtain worldwide exclusive rights to commercialize the products developed under this collaboration. In return, Direvo will receive R&D funding, milestone payments, and royalties on future product sales. Direvo Biotech AG, based in Cologne, is a leading company in screeningbased directed evolution and applies its integrated proprietary technologies to the development of better biopharmaceuticals and improved industrial enzymes. Danisco A/S develops and produces functional ingredients, sweeteners, and sugar. Press release from Direvo Biotech AG, Nattermannallee 1, D-50829 Köln, Germany. Fax: +49 221 8887 111. Website: http://www.direvo.com (26 Nov 2002)
Engelhard 3Q 2002 results: Environmental Technologies Operating earnings from Engelhard Corp’s Environmental Technologies declined 43% in 3Q 2002 to $20 M. Sales increased 6% to $158 M as increased revenue from the automotive market was partly offset by lower demand from the powergeneration market. Earnings declined
JANUARY 2003
O N
C ATA LY S T S
in comparison with unusually strong results in 3Q 2001, combined with significantly higher costs in 3Q 2002 resulting primarily from higher manufacturing costs, including rework for power-generation applications, plus 2002’s increased development and startup costs related to new technologies for diesel engines. Engelhard 3Q 2002 Report, 24 Oct 2002, 2 (Engelhard Corp, Iselin, NJ, USA, Website: http://www.engelhard.com)
Engelhard 3Q 2002 results: Process Technologies Operating earnings from Engelhard Corp’s Process Technologies declined 13% in 3Q 2002 to $21 M. Sales were $126 M, down from $131 M in 3Q 2001. Sales continued to be impacted by lower volumes in some chemical markets and lower precious metals prices, which are passed through to customers. Strong results from refining, polyolefins, and gas-toliquids markets, driven by demand for new products, were offset by weak demand in other core chemical process markets. Engelhard 3Q 2002 Report, 24 Oct 2002, 2 (Engelhard Corp, Iselin, NJ, USA, Website: http://www.engelhard.com)
INEOS Silicas Netherlands: short profile A short profile is presented of INEOS Silicas Netherlands BV (formerly Crosfield BV), part of Ineos Silicas, which has facilities throughout the world. Ineos Silicas employs around 900 workers, with around 170 workers based at Eijsden in The Netherlands, where more than 160,000 tonne/y silicates and zeolites are produced. These are prepared from raw materials such as sand, soda, soda lye, and aluminium hydroxide. Open Dag Chemie, 2 Nov 2002, 22 (VNCI (Association of the Dutch Chemical Industry), Vlietweg 16, Leidschendam, PO Box 443, 2260 AK Leidschendam, The Netherlands. Tel: +31 70 337 87 33. Fax: +31 70 320 84 38. Website: http://www.vnci.nl) (in Dutch)
Johnson Matthey Fuel Cells Ltd On 8 Nov 2002 Johnson Matthey announced that Anglo Platinum has taken a 17.5% stake in its fuel cell components subsidiary, Johnson Matthey Fuel Cells Ltd. Johnson Matthey and Anglo Platinum have for
many years collaborated on R&D into fuel cell components and enabling technologies, under a long-term agreement announced in May 1993. Anglo Platinum has agreed to contribute its share of the intellectual property rights and know-how which has been developed under that agreement, together with a £20 M payment, in return for the 17.5% stake in the new company. Johnson Matthey Fuel Cells Ltd will manufacture and market all the fuel cell components currently being developed by Johnson Matthey including membrane electrode assemblies, fuel processors, and fuel cell catalysts. It will continue to be managed as part of the Johnson Matthey group and purchase services from other parts of the group. The relationship with Anglo Platinum will also give the fuel cell business improved access to future platinum supplies. Press release from Johnson Matthey plc, UK. Website: http://www.matthey.com (8 Nov 2002) & Chemical Week, 20-27 Nov 2002, 164 (46), 16 & Chimie Hebdo, 18 Nov 2002, (192), 14 (in French)
Neozyme International enters into distribution agreement in NY Neozyme International Inc has recently signed a Distribution Agreement for the representation of its patented bio-organic catalysts within the state of New York. The primary focus will centre on EcoZyme, a Neozyme product that has proven very effective in eliminating the buildup of fats, oils, and greases (FOG) in all manner of collection systems, from residential and commercial plumbing drains to municipal sewers and lift stations. Press release from International Daleco Corp, 33 Journey, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656, USA. Tel: +1 949 360 4288 or +1 800 432 5326. Fax: +1 949 360 8774. Website: http://www.daleco.com (21 Nov 2002)
Novozymes results for Jan-Sep 2002 Novozymes A/S reported results for nine months of 2002. Net turnover increased by 8% to DKR 4190 M for nine months of 2002 (DKR 3882 M in nine months of 2001). Volumes, prices, and product mix in the market increased sales by 11% in nine months of 2002. Profit after taxation was DKR 452 M for nine months of
3