Covation Biomaterials, based in Newark, Delaware, is to sell its interest in Primient Covation, the world’s largest producer of 100% bio-based 1,3 propanediol (BioPDO).

Following the transaction, Primient will continue to supply CovationBio with BioPDO under a long-term supply agreement, for the production of partially bio-based Sorona polymer which is used globally by the apparel and homegoods industries.

CovationBio is now preparing for commercialisation of its latest product, bioPTMEG, in 2026.

“The BioPDO business was originally introduced in Sorona polymer over 25 years ago,” said CovationBio CEO Steven Ackerman.. It’s a mature platform that continues to grow and be successful. Now, as part of our long-term strategy to reaffirm our commitment to new technologies, we’ve identified BioPDO as one part of a larger ecosystem of sustainable materials. This exit allows us to make a deeper investment into the next generation of sustainable material innovations.”

BioPTMEG is a second generation bio-based polyether glycol that is derived from corn cobs, an ingredient that does not compete with primary food sources. It will serve as a drop-in replacement for traditional petroleum-based polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG) while providing substantial sustainability benefits for applications that use spandex, polyurethanes and thermoplastic elastomers, such as athletic and performance apparel, footwear components, industrial elastics and automotive parts and accessories.

“As we look ahead, we’re excited about the opportunity to commercialise solutions that reduce friction for our downstream value chain partners as they look to integrate sustainable materials into their production,” said Ackerman. “As a drop-in replacement for traditional PTMEG, bioPTMEG can be seamlessly integrated as a bio-based raw material option without major process changes.”

CovationBio is the producer of 37% plant-based Sorona polymer, commercially launched in 2000. Since its debut, Sorona polymer has grown into a globally recognised ingredient for apparel and homegoods with a reputation for combining improved environmental impact with uncompromising performance for some of the world’s most recognisable brands.

It is used to add softness, stretch, durability and warm breathability to fabrics across a variety of apparel and homegoods applications. In September 2025, CovationBio released its updated, third-party reviewed Life Cycle Assessment results for Sorona polymer demonstrating significant environmental advantages compared to conventional synthetics.

www.CovationBio.com