Domtar announced on July 10 that it has acquired a majority stake in Prisma Renewable Composites Ltd., which focuses on the development of advanced materials such as lignin and other natural resources.
Through the investment, Domtar will help Prisma realize the commercial application of lignin manufacturing engineering plastic compounds, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and other high-value fiber and lignin applications.
"Innovation is at the core of Domtar Biomaterials' growth strategy," said Mark DeAndrea, vice president of Domtar Biomaterials. "We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with an industry-leading renewable composites company. Domtar Biomaterials is the bridge between science and commercialization. This investment leverages Prisma's research capabilities and unique product development strategy, as well as Domtar's commercial Chemical and lignin production expertise. "
Domtar uses state-of-the-art extrusion equipment to extract commercial-grade lignin in dried, composite and modified lignin particles (pellets), as well as wood polymer blends. The company recently built a demonstration plant in Ontario, Canada, to show how lignin pellets could be used as bio-replacements for plastics, chemicals, and other petroleum-based products. The company is also exploring the application potential, serviceability and commercial promotion opportunities of lignin-based graphene and wood carbon fiber products.