Chemical Today November 2017

November 2017 | Volume II | Issue VI | ₹200

Sector View

Pharma Manufacturing

Feature

Lab Chemicals

International Focus Korea

Equipment

Thermal Processing Valves Triple Quad LC/MS

PUTTING GMP IN PLACE

IS MANUFACTURING ENOUGH OR DOES INCORPORATING GOOD MANUFACTURING PRACTICES GIVE AN ADDITIONAL EDGE?

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

Indian pharma industry:

Reinvent the game.

The Indian pharma industry is well on its way to becoming a $55 billion industry by 2020. At present, the country is proudly said to be the third largest pharmaceutical industry in the world. India continues to be the largest exporter of generic drugs to the US and even in this year, over 40 percent of the new drug approvals were from India.

The country does still boast of having the largest number of facilities approved by US and other countries. Looking at our vast experience and plethora of opportunities in the near term, we can surely take the pharma industry to newer heights.

CHEMICAL

TODAY

However, to make the most of the potential, there are certain concerns that need to be addressed.

Several drugs are going off patent by 2020. If Indian companies innovate and develop new drugs, they can capture a huge chunk of the global industry. Here the essential need is for innovation and a strong pipeline in terms of R&D. The long term vision and strategic efforts of the pharma industry are key for future growth.

The other major area of concern is the issue of proper compliance.

The need of the hour is to comply with various foreign regulations by incorporating good manufacturing practices (GMP) in their manufacturing and every aspect of the supply chain. Currently, the pharma industry is actively looking to resolve the compliance concerns.

Moreover, predictions are that the growth trajectory for Indian pharma industry is likely to be moderate and revenues & margins will tend to get squeezed, moving forward. These factors are in-turn likely to impact the APIs, bulk drugs and other related raw material segments.

To get an in-depth idea, take a look at our sector article, as we touch upon the development and concerns in the Indian pharma industry.

A ray of hope for the chemical industry is that the US chemical industry is gearing up their local manufacturing, giving rise to the second wave in the US. Manufacturers have the cost advantage of cheap natural gas, making it possible for expansion and further investments, according to Bloomberg.

Almost 20 factories are being built or expanded to convert gas liquids such as ethane and propane into ethylene, the most used petrochemical and the main ingredient in polyethylene plastic.

This boom relies on gas remaining relatively cheap, but also on continued economic growth worldwide, led by Asia Pacific region, namely India and China.

To connect and to give us a bouquet or brickbats, write to editorial@worldofchemicals.com

Cover Image: Steve Cole | Getty Images Š 2017 worldofchemicals.com

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

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Chemical Today

is a monthly magazine focused on chemistry & the chemical industry.

CONTENTS SECTOR VIEW

PHARMA MANUFACTURING 36

QUOTES 04 NEWS NATIONAL 06 REGULATION 09 MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS 10 MAKE A DIFFERENCE 12 EVENTS 16 POLYMERS 18 SOLVENTS 22 PACKAGING 26 ENZYMES 28 GREEN CHEMISTRY 32

FEATURES

LAB CHEMICALS 38

INTERNATIONAL FOCUS KOREA 40 MARKET UPDATES 42 INSIGHTS INNOVATION 46 REPORT HIGH POTENCY APIS 48 PHARMA CONTINUOUS MANUFACTURING 52 PHARMACEUTICAL CONTRACT PACKAGING 54 PHARMACEUTICALS EXCIPIENTS 56 ACADEMIC R&D 58 ACADEMIC SPEAK 62 R&D YOUNG TURKS 64 JOBS 66 PRODUCTS 68

EQUIPMENT

AUTOMATION PROCESS 68 EQUIPMENT THERMAL PROCESSING 70 VALVES 72 TRIPLE QUAD LC/MS 74 EQUIPMENT 76 GLOSSARY 78

Jim Yano,

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Vice President - Marketing, Mass Spectrometry Division, Agilent Technologies IncToday Magazine Chemical

Bharat Bhardwaj,

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Country Manager (India), Agilent India Pvt Ltd,

| November 2017

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QUOTES

India’s contribution in the chemical sector globally is 3 percent and this gives us a huge scope for growth. However, without new research and innovation in this field, we cannot make a quantum jump with qualitative bulk materials.

In order to ensure growth, we should have a common research facility for Chemicals, Petrochemicals and Pharmaceuticals. We therefore, seriously believe that we should invest in research, because it is a field where sky is the limit for growth and innovation.

Narendra Modi, Prime Minister Of India.

Gujarat, known as the “chemical” hub of India contributes to more than 60 percent of the national petrochemical production and 35 percent of the national chemical production. A strong base of diversified chemical units across the value chain, a world class petrochemical hub located in Dahej PCPIR, chemical port, LNG terminals as well as supportive government policies are significant growth drivers for the chemical sector in the state.

Going forward value addition, innovation and sustainability need to become priority areas for the chemical industry in Gujarat.

Vijay Rupani, Chief Minister Of Gujarat.

We want the Indian chemical and petrochemical industry to be the world leaders. For this, whatever facilitation, promotion and assistance is required, we are ready for it. We want to promote the ‘Make in India’ idea globally. Make in India not only for the demand in India, but also to compete with the world.

Ananth Kumar, Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India.

Source: India Chem, Gujarat 2017.

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

Indian Solar Manufacturers’ Association (ISMA) members have expressed positive sentiments as manufacturing and ‘Make in India’ initiative gathered momentum. The phenomenal growth opportunity of Renewal Energy is unparalleled in the world today, looking at current and future energy consumption in India over the next 2-3 decades.

All stakeholders have immense opportunities especially those who make and develop products in India.

K N Subramaniam, CEO, Moserbear Solar Ltd and Treasurer, Indian Solar Manufacturers’ Association (ISMA).

The rise of e-commerce and access to new technologies has accelerated counterfeiting and other forms of illicit trade. That makes fighting counterfeit medical products an ever-more urgent priority for pharma companies – both in terms of patient safety and brand reputation.

Yann Ischi, Director, New Channels and Partnerships, SICPA.

Within the Volkswagen Group, we have a clear strategy for how we want to put battery-electric vehicles into series production across our brands and in many different market segments. However, a major qualification for success in the volume market is more powerful battery concepts. In Volkswagen Group R&D we are focusing on close cooperation, not only with industrial partners but also with the smart minds of the scientific community.

Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Head, Group R&D, Volkswagen AG. Using reverse osmosis for pre-treatment means we can reduce the consumption of specific chemicals for resin bed regeneration by around 60 percent.

Ashraf Aly Mostafa, Project Manager, Alexandria Fertilizers Co (Alexfert).

India is a very important market for polyurethanes and has a wonderful potential for growth. When leaders of the industry from all over the world get together under one roof, it leads to better production and faster growth of the industry.

R C Bhargava, former CEO and current Chairman, Maruti Suzuki.

India today process 565,000 mtpa of polyurethanes and this is expected to cross the 1 million mtpa mark in the next three to four years. Polyurethane is a designers polymer unparalleled by any of its kind when it comes to allowing technologists to chemically design and develop specific end products.

Mukesh Bhuta, Chairman, IPUA and Promoter, Expanded Polymer Systems Pvt. Ltd. A host of forces are disrupting the chemical industry – geopolitical risks, changing customer desires, growth challenges, population changes, digital technology proliferation and pervasive volatility, to name a few.

Rachael Bartels, Managing Director and Chemicals & Natural Resources Global Industry Lead, Accenture.

The number of people in Asia without adequate access to a safe and nutritious food supply is growing - and that’s simply unacceptable. The responsibility to ensure everyone has enough healthy food to eat is a shared one. The plant science industry fully supports the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in the pursuit of wiping out world hunger, and is committed to ensuring farmers in Asia are empowered and enabled to produce more food for a growing population.

Dr Siang Hee Tan, Executive Director, CropLife Asia

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NEWS NATIONAL SAUDI ARAMCO EYES JOINT VENTURE DEAL IN INDIA BY NEXT YEAR

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tate-run oil giant, Saudi Aramco is in talks with several Indian refiners and hopes to land a joint venture deal by next year, the company’s chief executive, Amin Nasser said at India Energy Forum.

Aramco, like other major oil producers, wants to tap rising demand growth opportunities and invest in the world’s third biggest consumer.

Aramco wants to buy a stake in the planned 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd) refinery in India’s west coast, India’s oil minister said in June.

The world’s biggest oil producer is investing in refineries abroad to help lock in demand for its crude and expand its market share ahead of its initial public offering next year.

August, data compiled by Reuters showed. Earlier this year Saudi Arabia pledged billions of dollars of investment in projects in Indonesia and Malaysia to ensure long-term oil supply deals.

The International Energy Agency estimates India’s refining capacity will lag fuel demand going forward, requiring investment in new plants.

Saudi Aramco earlier on Sunday launched a new office in New Delhi as it aims to expands its presence in India.

India’s oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who inaugurated Aramco’s India unit, said Aramco is interested in investing in refinery projects in the Asian country and “very soon they will come to India.”

Aramco plans to float up to 5 percent of its shares in 2018 in what could be the world’s largest IPO, raising as much as $100 billion.

Nasser said Aramco will increase its staff strength in India by four fold compared to now. The company which had 14 employees has now raised staff numbers to around 30.

Nasser said Aramco is interested in investing in India’s downstream sector - refining, petrochemicals and fuel retailing including lubricants. Saudi Arabia is competing with Iraq to be India’s top oil supplier, with Iraq displacing it for a fifth month in a row in

“India by itself is an important market. The size of India’s market is huge. The growth in India last year is 8 percent last year as compared to 1.5 percent globally in energy,” Nasser said. “We need to be here.”

Source: Reuters

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

RELIANCE SELLS PENNSYLVANIA SHALE ASSETS FOR $126 MILLION

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eliance Industries Ltd (RIL) announced that it has agreed to sell the first of its shale gas ventures—upstream Marcellus shale gas assets in northeastern and central Pennsylvania in the US—for $126 million. The transaction is anticipated to close by the end of the third quarter of FY2018, within April 1, 2017 effective date. The assets held by Reliance Marcellus II LLC, a unit of Reliance Holding USA Inc and Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), were sold to BKV Chelsea LLC, an affiliate of Kalnin Ventures LLC. It is currently operated by Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc. In 2010, RIL had bought a 60 percent stake in the assets for $392 million.

“This transaction represents an opportunistic sale of developed upstream Marcellus assets and ends a successful partnership of

seven years with Carrizo in a joint sale. We will continue to actively manage the remainder of our US shale resources,” said Walter Van de Vijver, president and CEO of Reliance Holding USA Inc. The assets produce mainly gas and are located in Susquehanna, Wyoming and Clearfield Counties of Pennsylvania. The Carrizo operated acreage was one of the three upstream assets in the USA, owned by Reliance.

Reliance remains invested in the Marcellus shale play via its nonoperated position with Chevron in southwestern Pennsylvania and in the Eagle Ford play via its non-operated position with Pioneer in Texas.

TORRENT PHARMA EYES UNICHEM’S DOMESTIC BUSINESS

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orrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd is apparently in advanced discussions to acquire Unichem Laboratories’ domestic formulations business. Industry insiders anticipate the deal to reach over Rs 3,00 crore.The move comes after Ahmedabadbased Torrent Pharma has been looking to expand its presence in the domestic

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

market and Unichem was a potential bet, particularly with its Losar brand of drugs in the cardiovascular space. The deal is expected to be announced within 10 days.

Unichem, in its investor presentation on 30 May this year had said that the market share of the Losar brand of drugs, used in the treatment of high blood pressure,

improved by 4.8 percent in FY2017 and maintained its top rank. Unichem’s revenue from the domestic formulations business was Rs839.5 crore in financial year 201617, up 11 percent from a year ago. In 201617, Torrent Pharma’s domestic business revenue was Rs 1,977 crore, up 8 percent from a year ago.

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NEWS NATIONAL BOSTIK OPENS NEW ADHESIVES PLANT IN GUJARAT, INDIA

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ostik has opened a new adhesives facility in Gujarat, India.

Together with its existing plant in Bangalore, the new plant will serve the fast-growing demand in India for adhesives in industrial markets.

The new facility will produce advanced hot melt pressure sensitive adhesives (HMPSA) for a number of industrial sectors such as flexible lamination, transportation and footwear production.

It will support the strong growing demand for its products in both India and export markets.

This investment will enable Bostik to continue providing high levels of services to its growing customer base in the region. Bostik has been active in India since 2001 where it manufactures a range of adhesives and related products for the industrial and construction sectors.

The new facility will produce advanced hot melt pressure sensitive adhesives for a number of industrial sectors.

In the presence of local government dignitaries and customers at the official plant inauguration ceremony, Vincent Legros, Bostik CEO said, “We are very pleased to expand our presence in India and enhance our ability to serve customers in a market with significant growth potential. Geographic expansion and investment in lead technology platforms such as the hot melt pressure sensitive adhesives (HMPSA) manufactured here are central elements of our growth strategy.”

THYSSENKRUPP BAGS CONTRACT FOR KUTCH CHEMICALS’ CAUSTIC SODA PLANT

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hyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions (India) has been awarded a contract from Kutch Chemicals Limited, the Gujarat-based speciality chemicals major, for its grassroots 421 tonnes per day (100 percent sodium hydroxide) membrane cell caustic sodachlorine facilities in Kutch, Gujarat.

Thyssenkrupp will provide engineering services, construction supervision services and supply proprietary equipment for the new facility. Start-up of the plant is scheduled for March 2019.

The plant will deploy Thyssenkrupp’s leading membrane cell technology which is at work across a majority of Indian caustic soda installations. At the heart of the plant will be the group’s latest zero-gap, energy and emission-friendly 6B Generation Cell Elements from Thyssenkrupp Uhde Chlorine Engineers, a worldwide supplier of leading technologies and comprehensive solutions for high-efficiency electrolysis plants.

The scope of services includes basic and detail engineering, project management services including technical procurement, proprietary supplies, supervision during civil and structural erection work as well as supervision services during start-up, commissioning and performance test run.

Kutch Chemicals proposes to use the chlorine manufactured in the plant for its speciality chemicals, while it will sell the caustic soda over the counter. The flagship company of the Goyal Group of Industries, which is amongst India’s leading speciality chemicals players, is engaged in the manufacturer of a variety of speciality products involving chlorination, nitration, sulfonation, hydrogenation, ethoxilation and ammonolysis processes.

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

PD Samudra, MD & CEO, Thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions (India) exchanges a copy of the signed agreement with Shivlal Goyal, Chairman and Jay Prakash Goyal, director-finance/ commercial of Kutch Chemicals in the presence of PN Ojha, executive director, and other officials from the two companies.

NEWS REGULATION

INDIAN ALKALI INDUSTRY APPLAUDS GOVERNMENT REGULATION TO BOOST DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING Chlor-Alkali plant used for representation. (File Photo)

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delegation of industry chlor-alkali representatives let by Anil Kumar, president of Alkali Manufacturers Association of India (AMAI) met Ananth Kumar, union minister for chemicals & fertilizers, Government of India and requested for government regulation on making superior quality caustic soda mandatory. Ananth Kumar assured the industry of the government’s support and announced that a regulation making revised quality standard for caustic soda mandatory for domestic production as well as imports is being introduced.

The entire Indian industry produces caustic soda using the superior membrane cell technology, which is energy efficient and eco-friendly, making us the second country in the world (after Japan) to achieve complete conversion. However, there is no restriction on the quality of caustic soda imported into the country with the result that caustic soda produced by mercury cell and diaphragm technology which are inferior continue to enter the country.

The Indian alkali industry welcomes the government’s decision, to make the revised caustic soda standard (produced from membrane cell technology) mandatory and support to the domestic industry.

Imports of caustic soda constitute about 15 percent of demand which is affecting the capacity utilization of domestic manufacturers. The Indian industry has been pressing for stopping inferior caustic soda imports that is adversely affecting health and environment.

The government’s decision will also give a fillip to the “Make in India” programme by encouraging the domestic industry to invest in superior manufacturing technology and augmenting capacity to meet the growing local demand as well as harnessing export potential.

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

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NEWS MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

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EXXONMOBIL TO ACQUIRE BRAZIL’S CARCARA OIL FIELD INTEREST FROM STATOIL

xxonMobil announced that it has completed an agreement to purchase half of Statoil’s interest in the BM-S-8 block offshore Brazil, which contains part of the pre-salt Carcara oil field. The Carcara field contains an estimated recoverable resource of 2 billion barrels of high-quality oil. The block is located approximately 200 miles offshore Rio de Janeiro.

Statoil currently holds a 66 percent interest in the block, which contains about half the Carcara field. The other part of the field is in the adjacent North Carcara block, where ExxonMobil, Statoil and Petrogal Brasil were high bidders in a bid round held recently.

Statoil will continue to operate the Carcara development and hold 33 percent interest.

Over the last month, through bid rounds and announced farm-in agreements, ExxonMobil has added 14 blocks comprising more than 1.25 million net acres offshore Brazil to its portfolio, bringing its total acreage in the country to more than 1.4 million net acres.

“These agreements and recent bid round results mark ExxonMobil’s entry into a world-class resource and prospective exploration acreage in Brazil,” said Darren Woods, chairman and chief executive officer of ExxonMobil.

“We’re confident our deepwater technology and project expertise can help to further grow the value of Brazil’s energy resources. We look forward to working with Petrobras and all our partners to begin to explore and develop this high quality acreage.”

ExxonMobil will make an upfront cash payment of approximately $800 million for the interest in BM-S-8 block, and an additional contingent cash payment for a potential total of approximately $1.3 billion. The transaction is subject to government approvals and is expected to close in 2018.

Following the close of the transaction, partner interests in the BMS-8 block will be 33 percent for Statoil, 33 percent for ExxonMobil, 14 percent for Petrogal Brasil, a subsidiary of Galp, and 10 percent each for QGEP and Barra.

BASF TO ACQUIRE PARTS OF BAYER’S SEED, NON-SELECTIVE HERBICIDE BUSINESSES

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ASF SE has signed an agreement to acquire significant parts of Bayer’s seed and non-selective herbicide businesses in an allcash purchase price of €5.9 billion.

Bayer intends to divest these assets in the context of its planned acquisition of Monsanto. The assets to be acquired include Bayer’s global glufosinate-ammonium non-selective herbicide business, commercialized under the Liberty, Basta and Finale brands, as well as its seed businesses for key row crops in select markets: canola hybrids in North America under the InVigor brand using the LibertyLink trait technology, oilseed rape mainly in European markets, cotton in the Americas and Europe as well as soybean in the Americas. The transaction also includes Bayer’s trait research and breeding capabilities for these crops and the LibertyLink trait and trademark. For the full year 2016, sales of the business to be purchased from Bayer amounted to around €1.3 billion and EBITDA to around €385 million. The transaction is subject to the closing of Bayer’s acquisition of Monsanto and approval by relevant authorities. It is expected to close in the first quarter of 2018.

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

“With this investment, we are seizing the opportunity to acquire highly attractive assets in key row crops and markets. The acquisition will further enhance our agricultural solutions offer, which is a core pillar of BASF’s portfolio,” said Dr Kurt Bock, chairman of the board of executive directors of BASF SE. The acquisition complements BASF’s crop protection business, strengthening the company’s herbicide portfolio and marking its entry into the seed business with proprietary assets in key agricultural markets. “Building on the competent new team members and the enhanced portfolio, we will offer farmers a greater choice of solutions addressing their needs for high-quality seeds, chemical and biological crop protection,” explained Saori Dubourg, member of the board of executive directors of BASF SE and responsible for the Agricultural Solutions segment.

Furthermore, BASF will acquire the manufacturing sites for glufosinate-ammonium production and formulation in Germany, the US and Canada, seed breeding facilities in the Americas and Europe as well as trait research facilities in the US and Europe.

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AKZONOBEL IN TALKS TO MERGE WITH SMALLER US RIVAL AXALTA

etherlands-based AkzoNobel NV is discussing a merger with smaller US rival Axalta Coating Systems Ltd to create a $30 billion company. This will create a leading global paints & coatings company through a merger of equals.

Akzo, the maker of Dulux paint, said it was in “constructive talks” about a “merger of equals” in what would be the first major deal

by Chief Executive Thierry Vanlancker, who took over in July after Akzo spurned a 26 billion euro ($30.2 billion) offer from US rival PPG Industries.

Reuters reported that Akzo had approached Axalta about a possible merger, sending Axalta’s shares 17 percent higher. Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway is the largest Axalta investor with a stake of just under 10 percent.

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“Akzo overpromised after defending their own company and started to fail to deliver in Q3, so (they) need to do something transformational,” he added.

At 19.5 billion euros ($22.7 billion), Akzo’s market value is close to three times that of Axalta at $8.1 billion at a closing price of $33.15.

AkzoNobel confirms that its separation of speciality chemicals, including the return of the vast majority of net proceeds to shareholders, remains on track for April 2018 and is unaffected by these discussions.

WHITE TALE INCREASES STAKE IN CLARIANT TO ABOVE 20 PC

lariant said White Tale Holdings, the biggest investor in Clariant, has increased its stake in the company more than 20 percent. This follows earlier mandatory notifications by White Tale Holdings to the Swiss Stock Exchange (SIX) regarding its holdings.

Activist investors seeking to block Clariant’s $20 billion merger deal with Huntsman Corp have thus increased their stake in the Swiss specialty chemical maker to above 20 percent, media reports stated.

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“This seems a classic attack-is-the-best-defense strategy,” said a fund manager at one of Akzo’s top-10 investors who asked not to be named.

This has forced Clariant to abandon a $20 billion merger with Huntsman. Following this, the Swiss chemical group Clariant will look for another merger partner, according to its chief executive.

A merger with the right company was “always a very good alternative” to going it alone, Hariolf Kottmann told the Financial Times, as the group reported third-quarter results showing an acceleration in sales that he said showed Clariant could also thrive on its own.

INVISTA TO SELL APPAREL & ADVANCED TEXTILES BUSINESS

nvista has entered into a definitive agreement with Shandong Ruyi Investment Holding to sell its apparel & advanced textiles business, one of Invista’s four major business units. Completion of the agreement is expected by mid-2018.

The transaction includes: Invista’s portfolio of apparel-focused fibres and brands including LYCRA fibre, LYCRA HyFit fibre, COOLMAX fibre, THERMOLITE fibre and insulation, ELASPAN fibre, SUPPLEX fibre and TACTEL fibre products; TERATHANE polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG), 1,4 butanediol (BDO), and tetrahydrofuran (THF) production; Related manufacturing assets, research and development centres, and sales offices around the globe and; All associated technical, operations, commercial and administrative staff (approximately 3,000 employees globally).

Invista will retain ownership of its nylon, polyester, polyols and licensing businesses and related brands. This includes Invista’s

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

world-leading nylon 6,6 intermediates business, its global nylon polymer and fibre portfolio, and widely recognized brands including STAINMASTER and ANTRON carpet fibres and CORDURA fabric. Invista will also retain its intellectual property rights for 1,4 butanediol (BDO), tetrahydrofuran (THF) and polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG) technologies and will continue to license these technologies on a global basis.

“The apparel business has always been a strategic and valued part of our portfolio. We believe that Shandong Ruyi Investment Holding has the knowledge and capability that will enable this business to thrive the most and succeed over the long term,” said Jeff Gentry, Invista chairman and CEO. Goldman Sachs & Co LLC is serving as exclusive financial advisor to Invista, and Jones Day is acting as Invista’s legal advisor on this transaction.

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NEWS MAKE A DIFFERENCE

RENAULT-NISSAN ALLIANCE, PPG PARTNER FOR CUSTOM-MADE ADHESIVES

TO MORE THAN ONE MILLION CARS

Carlos Ghosn, Chairman and CEO of Renault-Nissan with Renault Zoe and Nissan LEAF.

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PG announced its partnership with automotive giant RenaultNissan Alliance to deliver tailor-made structural adhesives to more than one million Renault, Nissan and Samsung cars across Europe, Asia, North America and South America.

that is above industry standards. The partnership involved extensive testing at PPG’s tech centre in Saint-Just-en-Chaussee, and Renault Nissan plants, as well as designing new chemical formulations to enhance the glue’s performance.

Structural adhesives reduce the use of spot-welding in the manufacturing of cars. This delivers significant weight savings, resulting in improved fuel economy and reduced emissions.

Reducing the overall weight of a car by 10 percent improves fuel efficiency by 6 to 8 percent, according to the US Department of Energy.

“Our chemists and engineers worked side by side with Renault Nissan’s designers and manufacturing teams across Asia, the Middle East and Europe to deliver this unique technology,” said Maxime Goldberg, PPG global business director, automotive adhesives and sealants (A&S).

Structural adhesives also strengthen the bind between car parts as they provide a continuous line of glue rather than interval welds, resulting in reduced vehicle vibration and a more comfortable ride.

PPG and Renault Nissan worked closely to co-develop the technology, which delivers durability and manufacturing efficiency

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(File Photo)

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

“The industry is rapidly changing with new technologies and materials used to design and manufacture cars. Today, original equipment manufacturers are under enormous pressure to reduce the weight of a car, and our custom-made structural adhesives are a continuation of our ambition to solve some of their biggest challenges,” said Pascal Saunier, PPG key account manager of Renault-Nissan, A&S.

HAIER, COVESTRO COOPERATE

FOR GLOBAL HOME APPLIANCES INDUSTRY H

aier, a world-leading brand of major household appliances, and Covestro, have signed a strategic cooperation agreement to constantly develop advanced products featuring the latest material solutions to address the market demands of the global home appliances industry.

“Covestro is committed to exploring advanced technology to empower Haier and the household appliances industry globally,” said Daniel Meyer, global head of Covestro’s Polyurethanes Segment.

“This year, while we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the invention of polyurethanes, we also strive to lead the upgrading of global insulation technology development and broaden the global strategic cooperation by leveraging our expertise in innovation and global network.”

“The extended partnership with Covestro will support our worldwide business strategy,” said Wu Yong, general manager of China Refrigeration Industry, Haier Group. “By utilizing the latest material solutions in our products in different regions we will meet the upgrading needs of global consumers, as well as taking a leading role among Chinese companies going global.”

Haier had acquired its US-based competitor GE Appliances last year.

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

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NEWS MAKE A DIFFERENCE GUZZINI’S VENICE GLASSWARE SELECTS

INEOS STYROLUTION MATERIAL

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neos Styrolution said that its NAS 30 material has been selected by Fratelli Guzzini, a world leader in tableware and household appliances - known for elegant designs and the use of innovative materials.

For their latest series of glassware Venice, NAS 30 has become the material of choice.

Sparkling clarity, flowability, ease of processing and scratch resistance are some of the key properties of NAS 30, an SMMA (styrene-methyl-methacrylate) grade.

The Venice collection consists of glasses of different sizes, cups, a fruit bowl, a pitcher, a sugar pot and a tray. According to Guzzini,

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

the glassware is “clear, shiny and bright as crystal.” The quality of the Venice collection is so convincing that a leading Italian retail company runs a special promotion on it celebrating its own significant anniversary.

NAS 30, a styrene acrylic copolymer, does not only deliver that sparkling clarity, But due to its low density, NAS 30 also contributes to the lightness of the glasses.

NAS 30 meets USP XXIII specifications for Class VI plastics and it is UL 94 HB approved making it ideal for drinkware – and even for much more demanding solutions like medical devices. It is

compliant with food contact regulations and it received the drinking water approval W270.

“We selected NAS 30 since its clarity is really amazing. Also, it suits our moulding processes,” said Lorenzo Mandolesi, plant manager and general operation director at Guzzini.

“Our relationship proves very well that close cooperation allows for positive synergies and makes optimized solutions possible,” said Artur Sokolowski, sales director household & electronics EMEA at Ineos Styrolution.

KATHMANDU, ARCHROMA EARTHCOLORS COLLABORATE

FOR SIGNATURE HOODIES

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rchroma announced its first-ever collaboration with Kathmandu, the well-known New-Zealand born and based outdoor brand. Kathmandu selected Archroma’s EarthColors range of plant-based dyes to create a new capsule collection of the brand’s signature hoodie. Archroma’s EarthColors is a line of patented plant-based dyes, sourced from up to 100 percent renewable resources.

Archroma developed EarthColors using non-edible waste products, from agriculture and herbal industries, to replace petroleumderived raw materials; which are the conventional raw materials used to synthesize dyes currently. Archroma and Kathmandu teamed up to create an exclusive “vintage casual” look.

The colours available in the capsule collection: slate blue, burnt olive and burlwood rose, are made from the non-edible parts of nutshells, almond shells, rosemary, saw palmetto, bitter orange and beetroot, left over from agriculture industry or herbal extraction.

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

“We are proud that Kathmandu selected Archroma’s EarthColors for their first incursion into the world of nature-based colours.

It will surely inspire other brands and retailers to explore and adopt eco-advanced innovations,” said Paul Cowell, head of brand marketing in Archroma’s brand & performance textile specialties business.

“Dyeing techniques using plants have been around for centuries, but they require adding huge amounts of mordants* and fixatives**, which could lead to water pollution. They also tend to have poor light and wash fastness which is undesirable for the consumer and does not promote article longevity.

When we heard about EarthColors, we were immediately excited by what is probably the first technology allowing colours to be synthesized from plants rather than petroleum while keeping similar performance,” said Manu Rastogi, textile R&D and responsible materials manager for Kathmandu.

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EVENTS 13 – 16 November 2017 ADIPEC

UPCOMING EVENTS

Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Organised by: dmg Global Energy Website: https://www.adipec.com/ The Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) is one of the world’s most influential events for the oil & gas industry. As a premium exhibition and conference platform, ADIPEC hosts hundreds of speakers, thousands of exhibiting companies and tens of thousands of trade professionals from around the world.

28 – 30 November 2017

Cphi

Location: Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon East, Mumbai Organised by: UBM EMEA Website: http://www.cphi.com/india/ The event focuses on the future of pharmaceutical equipment and machinery. The event highlights latest knowledge and trends in the industry. It is the best place for you to source quality machinery and equipment at competitive prices and to make career changing connections.

15 – 17 December 2017

IIRS

Location: Mahatma Mandi Gandhinagar, India Organised by: Rubber Manufacturer’s Welfare Association Website: http://indiarubbershow.com/ India’s international rubber show focuses on raw materials, re-treading material, rubber recycle and reclaim products, rubber processing machinery, rubber testing & equipment, finished rubber products & industrial rubber products.

11 – 14 December 2017

Plastivision Arabia

Location: Expo Centre Sharjah, United Arab Emirates Organised by: The All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA) Website: http://www.plastivision.ae/ The event showcases raw materials, auxiliaries, plastic products and processes, machinery & equipment for the plastics and rubber industries, machinery & plant for finishing, decorating, printing and marking, services for the plastics and rubber industry and much more.

23 – 24 January 2018

Asia Adhesives and Sealants Markets

Location: Bangkok, Thailand, Centre for Management Technology Organised by: Centre for Management Technology Pte. Ltd Website: www.cmtevents.com/main.aspx?ev=180102&pu=273508 Asia adhesives and sealants markets focuses on the growth/trends of the adhesives & sealants market. Products showcased are beneficial for the automotive, construction, paper & packaging, electronics, textile & footwear etc industries.

23 – 26 January 2018

Interplastic

Location: Expocentre, Krasnaya Presnya Moscow, Russia Organised by: Messe Dusseldorf Website: http://www.interplastica.de/ This event showcases products like machinery and equipment for the plastic and rubber industries, raw materials and auxiliaries, plastics and rubber products, services for the plastics and rubber industries, logistics etc.

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

POLYMERS RECYCLING

EXPLORING NEW ROUTES

FOR RENEWABLE POLYMERS

BY JEAN VIALLEFONT

Plastics life cycle management is a central issue for the entire value chain and Total is developing some innovative and technological solutions for both feedstock and end-of-life.

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

T

he growing interest in recycling from plastic value chain stakeholders is indisputable.

Plastics recycling development must accelerate in order to help prevent plastic waste landfilling.

Currently, the recycling rate for plastics is significantly lower than that of other materials - such as glass, steel, aluminum, paper - and the availability of quality plastic recycling is limited. The quality of conventional recyclates generally available today limits its use to the least technically demanding applications.

Recyclates performance enhancement is required to enlarge the accessible market and to meet demands not satisfied with current materials. To do so, collaboration within the value chain is a key success factor.

Total is developing innovative solutions that widen the use of recyclates in collaboration with European recycling companies, enabling the development of a new grade of high density polyethylene (HDPE). This HDPE matches the requirements of the packaging segment whereby the performance of conventional polyethylene recyclates are “boosted” by associating them with specifically designed virgin materials. Equivalent levels of mechanical performance, processability and product consistency as in virgin plastic are achieved even in technically demanding applications.

This product covers manufacturing needs for blow molded bottles and heavy-duty containers for household and industrial liquids with approximately 50% of post-consumer recyclate (PCR), which

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

originates from post-consumer household waste collected in Western European countries. A deep decontamination step in Total’s Antwerp plant transforms the PCR into a fragrance-free resin, which is then compounded with HDPE virgin products in order to compensate for any lack of performance and consistency.

Thus, associating recycling science with polymer science enabled the design of these circular compounds to meet many plastic converters’ requirements.

Collaborative partnerships within the value chain play an important role in promoting sustainability initiatives for the plastics industry. Total is a founding member of several programs that advance the principles and practices of the circular economy.

Pellet containment programs such as Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS) raise awareness in member companies’ manufacturing plants on how to properly manage and prevent plastic pellets and other particles, at each step of the production and supply chain, from entering the environment.

Total is also a founding member of the Polyolefin Circular Economy Platform (PCEP) - an enhanced collection and sorting system to increase the reuse and recycling of polyolefin-based products and the use of recyclates as raw material – and the Polystyrene Industry Initiative - converting post-consumer polystyrene waste into virgin polystyrene. The target is to generate high-quality polystyrene to meet the most demanding standards, ultimately for food contact applications.

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POLYMERS RECYCLING Collaborative partnerships within the value chain play an important role in promoting sustainability initiatives for the plastics industry. Total is a founding member of several programs that advance the principles and practices of the circular economy.

Pellet containment programs such as Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS) raise awareness in member companies’ manufacturing plants on how to properly manage and prevent plastic pellets and other particles, at each step of the production and supply chain, from entering the environment.

Total is also a founding member of the Polyolefin Circular Economy Platform (PCEP) - an enhanced collection and sorting system to increase the reuse and recycling of polyolefin-based products and the use of recyclates as raw material – and the Polystyrene Industry Initiative - converting post-consumer polystyrene waste into virgin polystyrene. The target is to generate high-quality polystyrene to meet the most demanding standards, ultimately for food contact applications.

Total is continually developing new recipes to address other HDPE markets as well as Polypropylene markets.

An innovative collaboration on a new application for recycled plastic is developing plastic roads* as a sustainable added value alternative to traditional asphalt roads.

The aim is to use as much post-consumer plastic as possible whilst still maintaining a highly technical product capable of withstanding long-term repetitive loads.

Total can achieve this by combining the booster material, which compensates for differences in the properties of recyclates, with recycled plastic and thus creating a circular compound of high quality. Total is also developing solutions for converting

large volumes of post-consumer polystyrene waste. In an industrial-scale test run, recycled polystyrene was incorporated into virgin polystyrene up to 20 wt% with a resulting product of equivalent properties to a virgin polymer. Total is pursuing these developments in order to handle complex post consumer recycled streams of diverse qualities on its production lines.

“Polystyrene is one of the easiest polymers to recycle,” explained Jean Viallefont, Vice President Polymer Europe.

“This demonstration highlighted that polystyrene will be a significant contributor to the Circular Economy. The virgin plastics industry must step into a new yet essential role as ‘circularity enhancer.’

Total also has a development program on renewable resources. The creation of Total Corbion PLA*, a 50/50 joint venture, is a good example. The company produces high heat and standard PLA grades for a wide range of markets, from packaging to consumer goods, fibers and automotive.

PLA has numerous end-of-life options in addition to recycling, such as reusing, renewable energy recovery (incineration), compost/biodegradation, anaerobic digestion and feedstock recovery.

The science of polymers and the expertise of producers and recyclers offers a range of original solutions required to meet the challenge of plastics life cycle management.

Author:

Jean Viallefont is Vice President at Total Polymers Europe.

* PlasticRoad concept by KWS, Dutch producer of asphalt and specialist in road construction, with Wavin, producer of plastic products for rainwater drainage. **Total Corbion PLA is a global technology leader in Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) and lactide monomers.

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

63

SOLVENTS CHROMATOGRAPHY

ACETONITRILE:

Functional-use testing is an important factor in selecting the proper grade of LC/MS acetonitrile, as it is with HPLC solvents.

CONSIDERATIONS TO SELECT RIGHT GRADE FOR THE RIGHT APPLICATION L

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iquid chromatography (LC), including high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultrahigh-pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC, sometimes called “ultra-highperformance”), is the world’s most widely used analytical technique. However, the performance of even the most sophisticated instrumentation for this technique depends on the quality of the solvent in use.

complex matrices using HPLC or liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) requires a specialized grade of acetonitrile to meet stringent performance specifications. For routine, high-volume and well-characterized applications such as pharmaceutical or food & beverage quality control, a standard grade may be more appropriate for balancing budgetary goals while delivering acceptable results.

Acetonitrile, one of the most frequently used chromatography solvents, is available in such a wide range of quality (grades) that selecting the most appropriate grade can be a critical and challenging decision.

For example, exacting trace analysis in

Numerous benefits can be derived from selecting the most appropriate acetonitrile grade. These include minimal rework, greater reproducibility of results, less challenging methods transfer, improved instrument sensitivity (to both small and

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

large molecule detection in drug discovery), greater accuracy (fewer erroneous peaks caused by metal adduct formation) and extended column life.

These benefits can offset any additional cost for the higher-purity product, making the selection of a better grade a worthwhile purchase. Selecting the right grade for routine applications also ensures costeffectiveness by avoiding the expense of purchasing a high-purity grade where it is not needed. With these benefits in mind, there are several considerations for selecting the appropriate acetonitrile grade for HPLC and LC/MS applications (Table 1.)

Working with Standard and Routine HPLC Applications Many HPLC applications represent wellcharacterized chromatography work in which the analytical requirements are routine, and in some cases high-volume (eg, quality control), with throughput and cost being paramount considerations.

A standard HPLC grade of acetonitrile, combined with the capabilities of today’s HPLC instruments, is generally appropriate for these applications. Examples include standard, isocratic or routine gradient HPLC analysis using refractive index or UV/Vis (ultraviolet visible) detection, and analysis involving ion chromatography.

Preparative liquid chromatography for upstream initial or final purification/ polishing of biopharmaceutical products and most quality control applications would also be considered routine.

A typical HPLC grade solvent like acetonitrile will meet American Chemical Society (ACS) Reagent Chemicals specifications. This type of solvent has been used effectively in applications such as those described above, showing consistent gradient elution and minimal interferences.

For added assurance that a standardgrade solvent will meet consistency and reproducibility criteria, it’s beneficial if the product has been performance-tested for preparative liquid chromatography and other common applications. The solvent chosen should also exhibit lot-to-lot consistency from the supplier.

Although HPLC grade acetonitrile typically meets ACS specifications for purity (e.g., low residue after evaporation, water content of 200 ppm or .02 percent), it may not be ideal for the stringent demands of advanced or specialized HPLC or LC/MS applications, such as impurity profiling of pharmaceutical intermediates or active ingredients. A standard grade may not be appropriate for applications

with particularly stringent critical pair resolution requirements, or those that involve fluorescent LC detectors. However, standard HPLC grade acetonitrile can promote cost-effectiveness and meet throughput requirements in standard applications, where a higher grade would not be necessary because the gains in performance would not justify the higher cost.

Working with Specialized or Precision HPLC Applications Selecting a more advanced grade of acetonitrile for specialized analytical challenges is important because standard HPLC grade acetonitrile may not provide the desired results needed. In some specialized applications, the desirable data derived from high-purity acetonitrile (compared with standard HPLC grades) may be all-critical and justifies the use of high-purity solvents. Examples include analysis involving trace levels of analytes using UV/Vis, fluorescence and evaporative light scattering detection, specialized environmental analysis for the determination of aldehydes and ketones, or for the determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) compounds in drinking water. In addition, it should also be noted that HPLC grade solvents are generally not suited for applications that use a mass spectrometer analyzer.

Ideally, high-purity acetonitrile that meets the requirements of these applications would undergo stringent tests involving gradient elution with UV/Vis and fluorescence detection, and testing to ensure low levels of PAH, formaldehyde and other carbonyls to minimize interference and noise. This improves sensitivity to both small and large molecule detection.

Solvent quality should also be ensured with filtration according to strict standards (eg, 0.2 Âľm filter) and appropriate packaging from the supplier.

A high-purity grade of HPLC acetonitrile would be appropriate for any application that requires a product to exceed ACS specifications, such as impurity profiling and UHPLC-based method development.

In fact, any application involving UHPLC instrumentation almost certainly requires a high-purity grade of acetonitrile.

High-purity grades of acetonitrile can also support high-throughput analysis requiring excellent reproducibility (eg, lead optimization in drug discovery). A further benefit of high-purity grades of acetonitrile is that they are well-suited for use with the wide range of LC detectors in use today.

Working with Standard and Routine LC/MS Applications Most chemical manufacturers offer LC/ MS grade acetonitrile specifically intended for use with mass spectrometer analyzers.

As with HPLC grade acetonitrile selection, the choice of the most appropriate grade depends on the analytical methodology and applications. For routine, wellcharacterized analysis using mass spectrometers, a standard or traditional LC/MS grade acetonitrile is generally appropriate. Examples include some drug identification and degradation analysis; routine clinical or diagnostic assays; food & beverage safety testing; toxicology and forensics; and environmental testing.

Some traditional LC/MS grade acetonitrile products are function-tested (eg, atmospheric pressure chemical ionization referred to as APcI, or electrospray ionization referred to as ESI) to minimize ionization suppression. Functional-use testing is an important factor in selecting the proper grade of LC/MS acetonitrile, just as it is with selecting HPLC grade solvents.

Without function-testing, contaminants may be present in the acetonitrile, impacting ion formation or related reactions within the sample, which may produce unclear or flawed results. It

Specifying a high grade versus a standard grade can be more cost-effective in the end for some applications because reduced rework and material consumption will justify the higher initial cost

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

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SOLVENTS CHROMATOGRAPHY is also important that LC/MS grades of acetonitrile are tested for trace metals in the parts-per-billion range to minimize interference by metal adducts, and are manufactured to strict UV specifications for improved sensitivity. LC/MS grade acetonitrile is typically filtered through 0.2 µm filters to reduce particles and extend the useful life of chromatography columns.

Traditional LC/MS grades of acetonitrile perform well in many LC/MS applications including APcI+, ESI+ and evaporative light scattering detection with low flow nebulizers (0.05 – 0.50 mL/ minute). However, these grades are not suitable for advanced MS analysis such as time-of-flight, Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer (FT-ICR MS) and MS-MS hybrids, largely because traditional grades may create excessive ion suppression, reducing the sensitivity expected from these techniques. In addition, particle filtration of these grades at the 0.2 µm level, while appropriate for routine applications, may not be sufficient for advanced work. The presence of particles may lead to column blockages, reduced column life and costly instrument downtime.

Needs for Specialized High-Precision LC/MS Acetonitrile Specialty LC/MS grades of acetonitrile may be required for analysis involving trace amounts of analytes in complex matrices using mass spectrometers (eg, pharmacokinetic characterization, clinical research, metabolomics, genomics, proteomics and some environmental testing). Some specialized ionization techniques

call for a high-purity grade solvent as well (eg, ESI+ or ESI-, nanoelectrospray, APcI+ and APcI-).High-purity acetonitrile is also recommended for other sensitive LC/MS applications (UHPLC, quadrupoles, ion trap, time-of-flight, MS-MS hybrids). Highpurity grades, such as J.T.Baker® ULTRA LC/MS™ solvents, are produced using multi-step purification and 0.1 µm filtration during manufacturing to provide desirable features (eg, low trace metals). This is important in minimizing ion suppression, poreclogging and adduct formation (Figure 1), which in turn improves accuracy and productivity. Advanced grades of LC/MS acetonitrile should also undergo suitability testing (electrospray ESI+ or ESI-) to strengthen detection of extraneous organic impurities.

Another benefit in selecting a higher grade of acetonitrile is more versatility, because it would also be appropriate for all standard LC/ MS applications. This type of product is well-suited to laboratories that want to standardize on a single solvent for applications requiring extremely high sensitivity. Although traditional grades of acetonitrile are suitable for use with any LC detector, a high-grade product provides the optimum precision when an evaporative light scattering LC detection is being used.

Finally, a key consideration is to choose an acetonitrile that has been manufactured under conditions that control contaminants such as plasticizers. Manufacturing processes can introduce contaminants from production area surfaces, production equipment, reactive chemicals from the environment and even chemical contaminants from perfumes and lotions.

The use of more specialized and rigorously tested acetonitrile grades is becoming more common, as laboratories seek to remove the uncertainty of solvent performance from their work.

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

Conclusion Acetonitrile selection for a given application should be based on the degree of precision required, the specific application involved and the scale of chromatography. The initial cost of the product should be balanced against the potential impact on long-term cost of ownership of the instruments. Specifying a high-purity grade versus a standard grade can be more cost-effective for some applications because reduced rework and material consumption will justify the higher initial cost. However, it is not cost-effective to over-specify for routine applications.

High-grade acetonitrile products are generally suitable for a wide range of routine chromatography and mass spectrometry methods and processes, but applications requiring high sensitivity, high throughput or advanced analytical techniques generally require ultra-highgrade products that exceed (not just meet) ACS specifications. In general, the use of more specialized and rigorously tested acetonitrile grades is becoming more common, as laboratories seek to remove the uncertainty of solvent performance from their work.

Finally, the acetonitrile manufacturing process is also a key consideration.

Laboratories can realize important gains in accuracy, efficiency and productivity by selecting a manufacturer who offers multiple grades to suit multiple applications, and whose manufacturing processes are focused on controlling potential variables to help ensure reliable results.

Table 1.

Appropriate product by method: a quick reference guide for indicating the most appropriate choices of acetonitrile listed by key specifications, LC detector and MS analyzer.

Figure 1. Ion suppression (eg, sodium adduct formation) can be a common issue in advanced LC/MS applications, often causing misinterpretation of data.

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

Source: Avantor

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PACKAGING MOISTURE CONTROL MEDIA RELEASE

PERFORMANCE AND SUSTAINABILITY OF BENTONITE CLAY DESICCANTS

FOR MOISTURE CONTROLLED PACKAGING

•

Bentonite clay is an abundant, naturally occurring mineral

•

Unit weights, adsorption compared per MIL-D-3464 & DIN 55473

•

Production, carbon footprint, sustainability factors noted

Clariant Desi Pak® bentonite clay desiccant. (Photo: Clariant)

C

lariant, a world leader in specialty chemicals and its Cargo & Device Protection business line has provided information for the industry that details the many benefits of bentonite clay as a natural, sustainable desiccant solution for moisture control in packaging.

substance that can be mined and produced in many areas of the world. It requires no chemical additives and, once mined, requires only limited processing (extrusion, drying, grading) prior to use. Thus, the material stands out from synthetic desiccants whose production requires significant chemical, energy, and resource inputs, and necessitate global distribution that adds to the material’s overall carbon footprint.

pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and medical devices — desiccants are used as drying agents to extend shelf life by protecting goods from mould, corrosion, or other moisture-related degradation or damage. Clariant Cargo & Device Protection offers a complete portfolio of desiccants, container desiccants, oxygen absorbers, and humidity indicator solutions to help protect goods from moisture and oxygen across the entire supply chain. Solutions are available through a global sales network with worldwide manufacturing sites in Brazil, Indonesia, Turkey, United States, and China.

The new whitepaper highlights the specific benefits of bentonite clay in terms of composition, moisture-adsorption performance, production requirements, and the environmental impact of available The paper provides performance data, moisture controlled packaging solutions. including adsorption characteristics Bentonite clay, the principal ingredient in according to MIL-D-3464 and DIN Clariant Desi Pak® desiccants, is a highly 55473, for desiccants in the most ® Desi Pakcommon IS A packaging TRADEMARK OF In CLARIANT IN MANY COUNTRIES. applications. these Desi REGISTERED Pak® is a trademark of Clariant adsorbent, chemically inert material comprised of calcium montmorillonite. applications — textiles, leather goods, registered in many countries.

Source: It is an abundant, naturally occurring electronics, metal components, foods, Clariant

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GLOBAL TRADE MEDIA RELATIONS Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

S TEF ANIE N EHLSEN

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

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ENZYMES DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS

GOING GLUTEN-FREE WITH FREEDOM 28

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

BY EMILY TELLERS There are more people than ever suffering from some form of glutenrelated health issue – either celiac disease, gluten intolerance or nonceliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS)– all of which can cause digestive discomfort and fatigue. In fact, NCGS is now recognized as a separate condition, where neither allergic nor autoimmune mechanisms are involved. According to a consumer survey, 6 percent of the US population has been diagnosed with NCGS, 1while 13 percent of the UK population considers themselves to be gluten-sensitive.2However, at present, the only option for those who cannot tolerate gluten is a lifelong gluten-free diet.

In recent years, the market for gluten-free products has exploded.

One in three consumers (31 percent of the UK and 36 percent of the US) are inclined to limit their intake or avoid gluten, despite only 1 percent being diagnosed with celiac disease. 3While this has helped alleviate the problem of consuming gluten at home, it can be difficult to eat out, because of the ‘hidden’ gluten in many foods. One in four global consumers try to avoid foods that contain gluten, but this can be challenging when dining out, travelling or during social events. 4In fact, even when following a gluten-free diet, unintentional gluten intake can range from 200 to 3,000 mg/day, depending on how strictly the diet is followed.5,6,7,8 As a result of the growing number of people looking to avoid gluten, coupled with busy lifestyles and the desire for more freedom when eating out, consumers and manufacturers alike are seeking a solution that will bridge the gap in the industry. Recent innovations have led those with gluten sensitivity to turn to the convenience of dietary supplements – to give them peace of mind when traveling or dining outside of their homes. In particular, Aspergillus niger prolyl endoprotease (AN-PEP) is receiving attention as the only dietary enzyme scientifically proven to effectively help break down residual gluten.

What is gluten?

Gluten is everywhere. Modern lifestyles have led to a significant change in both the way grains are cultivated, and how they are consumed. For example, the introduction of commercial breadmaking in the 1960s removed the fermentation step, for a faster, more cost-effective process.

However, the fermentation process results in gluten being broken down (predigested). Omitting the fermentation step in commercial breadmaking has led to consumers being exposed to undigested proteins in bread for the first time.

Found in wheat, barley and rye, gluten is a protein complex that is rich in proline, an amino acid. Gluten is comprised of two proteins: glutenin and gliadin. Gluten gives bread its shape, texture and strength, and also provides functional properties for products like cakes and pasta.

However, it is also present in less well-known food and beverages, such as sauces, stock cubes, processed meats and confectionery. The human body cannot break down proline-rich proteins efficiently and this is a potential cause of gluten sensitivity. The poorly-digested gluten fragments can be the root cause of adverse responses in some individuals. tolerase-g_chart_01

tolerase_G_molecules

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

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ENZYMES DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS tolerase-g_chart_02

The science: degrading gluten proteins The dietary enzyme, AN-PEP, has received widespread interest from supplement manufacturers, following extensive studies carried out on the efficacy of the enzyme for gluten digestion in the stomach.

One particular in vitro trial has been pivotal in proving that AN-PEP specifically degrades the immunogenic parts within gluten proteins. 9The study looked at five alternative digestive enzyme supplements currently on the market, which claim to aid in gluten degradation, and compared them to the effectiveness of AN-PEP. Gluten epitope degradation was monitored by a gluten detection test, R5 ELISA, mass spectrometric analysis of the degradation products, and pro-inflammation T-cell proliferation assays.

The results found that the other enzyme supplements leave the gliadin fragments – glycoproteins implicated in the pathogenesis of celiac disease – largely intact. In contrast, tests confirmed that AN-PEP effectively degraded all nine epitomes in the pH range of the stomach at a much lower dose. As such, AN-PEP was determined to be the most effective of the supplements tested in degrading immunogenic gluten epitopes.

Testing in humans To further substantiate the evidence for AN-PEP, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study was carried out to assess the efficacy of the enzyme on gluten degradation in low and high calorie meals.1012 healthy volunteers, aged 18-45 years, were administered a liquid low- or high- calorie meal (both containing 4g of gluten) into the stomach with either an AN-PEP supplement or a placebo. Their gastric emptying times were then recorded, and samples were taken to

confirm the concentration of gliadin. The results found that AN-PEP ‘significantly enhanced’ gluten digestion in the stomach of healthy volunteers. As AN-PEP already degraded most gluten from low calorie meals, increasing meal caloric density (that slows down the gastric emptying) did not further improve the efficacy of the enzyme.

Furthermore, results from another clinical trial that aimed to assess the efficacy of AN-PEP in a physiological meal setting with a low amount of gluten is showing promising results.11The placebo-controlled, cross-over study looked at 18 self-reported gluten-sensitive subjects over three days.

Similarly, the trial found that both high (160,000 protease picomole international [PPI])12and low doses (80,000 PPI) of AN-PEP significantly lowered the gluten concentrations in the stomach and in the duodenum, compared to the placebo.

Innovation with dietary enzymes DSM’s Tolerase® G (AN-PEP) is currently the only commercially available enzyme for use in dietary supplements that is scientifically proven to help break down residual gluten. The unique enzyme is aimed at gluten sensitive consumers who are already following a gluten-free diet.

Active under stomach conditions, Tolerase® G is stable at low pH conditions, as well as being resistant to pepsin – an enzyme that breaks down proteins into smaller peptides. It is not intended to replace a gluten-free diet, nor treat or prevent celiac disease, but Tolerase® G definitely can provide peace of mind following a glutenfree diet with confidence. Tolerase® G was notified as a New Dietary Ingredient by the FDA in the US in 2015, and has recently been authorized as a novel food in the EU. Similarly, in Canada, it is listed as a ‘natural health product ingredient’, ‘complementary medicine ingredient’ in Australia, and as a ‘permitted substance’ in New Zealand.

Applying Tolerase® G to everyday life For gluten-sensitive consumers, it is important that any solution is convenient and easy enough to incorporate into their daily lives. The micro granularity of Tolerase® G means that it has excellent flowability and compressibility for use in tablets and capsules. The dose rate can also be adapted to suit different gluten intolerance sensitivities and the size of the meal consumed.

It is usually recommended that a dose of 160,000 – 180,000 PPIs is taken for diets high in hidden gluten (500 mg/ day). Whereas for consumers who are very sensitive, taking twice this dose could prove beneficial.

Conclusion While the wide range of gluten-free foods and beverages now available on retail shelves is certainly paving the way for consumers with gluten sensitivities, there is still a gap in the market for dealing with residual gluten when eating out, traveling or during social events. With growing awareness of the importance of digestive health, consumers are increasingly looking to convenient solutions that can be taken on-the-go and will provide the freedom that they need.

Although there are several digestive enzyme supplements now available on the market, continual demands by the rising number of discerning consumers interested in the science behind the products, is shaping the direction of the industry. The scientific evidence behind DSM’s Tolerase® G dietary enzyme gives consumers the confidence to follow a gluten-free diet, without fearing the danger of consuming residual gluten.

As such, Tolerase® G is a reliable option in supporting consumer lifestyles for those with gluten sensitivities.

Author:

Emily Tellers is Program Director Gut Health at DSM. 1

A. Sapone et al., ‘Spectrum of gluten-related disorders: consensus on new nomenclature and classification,’ BMC Medicine, vol. 10, no. 13, 2012, p.1-12.

2

I. Aziz et al., ‘A UK study assessing the population prevalence of self-reported gluten sensitivity and referral characteristics to secondary care,’ Eur. J. Gastroenterol Hepatol. Vol. 26, no. 1, 2014, p. 33-39.

3

Mintel, ‘Gluten-free food report’, October 2016 [report].

4

Nielson, ‘What’s in our food and on our minds: ingredient and dining out trends around the world’, August 2016 [report].

5

F. van Overbeek et al., ‘The daily gluten intake in relatives of patients with coeliac disease compared with that of the general Dutch population’, Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol, 1997, vol. 9, no. 11, p.1097-9.

6

E. Hopman et al., ‘Nutritional management of the gluten-free diet in young people with celiac disease in The Netherlands’, J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. Vol. 43, no. 1, 2006, p.102-8.

7

E. Hopman et al., ‘Gluten tolerance in adult patients with celiac disease 20 years after diagnosis?’, Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol. Vol. 20, no. 5, 2008, p.423-9.

8

A. Lovik et al., ‘Diet adherence and gluten exposure in coeliac disease and self-reported non-coeliac gluten sensitivity,’ Clin Nutr. Vol. 36, no. 1, 2017, p. 275-80.

9

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G. Janssen et al., ‘Ineffective degradation of immunogenic gluten epitopes by currently available digestive enzyme supplements,’ PLoS ONE, vol. 10, no. 6, 2015.

10

B. Salden et al., ‘Randomised clinical study: Aspergillus niger-derived enzyme digests gluten in the stomach of healthy volunteers,’ Aliment Pharmacol, vol. 42, 2015, p. 273-285.

11

J. Konig et al., ‘Aspergillus Niger-derived enzyme AN-PEP efficiently degrades gluten in the stomach of gluten-sensitive subjects,’ Clinical Nutrition, vol. 35, 2017.

12

160,000 protease picomole international [PPI]) is the amount of enzyme that releases one picomole of p-nitroanilide per second from Z-Gly-pro-p-NA under defined assay conditions.

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

GREEN CHEMISTRY ELECTRO-ORGANIC SYNTHESIS FOR SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION OF FINE CHEMICALS

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n the cooperative EPSYLON research project funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, scientists from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) and Evonik Performance Materials GmbH have succeeded in developing a state-of-the-art and innovative electro-organic synthesis. The results of their research, presented in Science Advances, allow the use of electrosynthesis as a trend-setting and sustainable green chemistry for technical applications. The method developed allows the operator to react flexibly to the available supply of electricity. Moreover, the operator no longer has to rely on customized electrolysis apparatuses and can use a wide variety of different equipment.

The method of carrying out chemical reactions using electricity was developed more than 160 years ago by German chemist Hermann Kolbe. Although electrochemical syntheses are used in the chemical industry, this has so far been a niche technology.

One reason is that the electrolysis conditions must be very finely controlled and uniform current input is essential. Due to the sophisticated technical infrastructure, the option of electrosynthesis remained unknown to most chemists. Now, in the 21st century, the green potential of electrochemistry has been rediscovered. It makes sustainable and eco-friendly chemistry possible with very simple means, particularly with the use of surplus power from renewable sources, such as wind or solar energy.

Electrochemistry is a versatile and powerful method that can be used to produce various chemical compounds or to effect chemical changes in molecules. To put it simply, electrons replace costly and toxic reagents. Unnecessary wastes can be avoided and the reaction can be halted at any time by simply switching off the power. Another advantage over classical synthesis is that many individual steps are more easily implemented by electrochemistry. In some cases, this can shorten a synthesis by several steps. However, electrolyses often require a narrow current-density window and long reaction times. In addition, selectivity and scalability are more difficult or even impossible.

The key to the success of the research group headed by professor Siegfried Waldvogel of the Institute of Organic Chemistry at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz is the use of a unique electrolyte system. The electrolyses here have extremely high stability to variation in current density, allowing operation in a current-density window with a width extending over more than two orders of magnitude, with no loss of productivity or selectivity. If the supply of current permits, the electrolysis may be carried out in a short time with very high current density.

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

DESIGNING SELECTIVE REACTIONS TO MODULATE BIOLOGICAL PROCESSES

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iQUS researchers present on ‘Angewandte Chemie’ a new synthetic method which could become a powerful tool to investigate the inner working of cells.

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he environment determines everything.

Unlike chemical reactions carried out in flasks in the laboratory, which allow to convert reagents into products, usually in organic solvents, in biological environments everything is much more unpredictable and unstable. Thus, reactions within a living organism proceed in a markedly hostile media: dense, complex, and surrounded by many other adjacent substances that threaten its feasibility (such as amino acids or sugars).

chemists have spent years working on the design of novel bioorthogonal reactions which should be compatible with the complexity of biological media.

Fortunately, nature has evolved sufficiently to allow these reactions to take place with astonishing selectivity, without interference from any other biological events. These transformations, so fundamental to the cell and to life, are known as bioorthogonal, and are usually promoted by enzymes.

The work published in the prestigious chemistry journal Angewandte Chemie, describes a novel reaction that is programmed to occur only when a ruthenium complex is present in the medium. “Ruthenium acts as a catalyst, it functions as an ‘artificial enzyme’,” explained Paolo Destito, the first author of the paper. According to this predoctoral researcher, “with this new method you can select exclusively, within a complex biological media, the two fragments that

So far, very few non-natural reactions of this type have been identified, but their potential for modifying biological functions in a controlled manner has stimulated an increasing interest among scientists. Thus,

Now, a team of CiQUS led by Professor Jose Luis Mascarenas and Dr Fernando Lopez has managed to develop a new bioorthogonal transformation that allows a selective coupling of two designed molecular fragments, without the interference of any of the molecules that abound in cells and tissues, such as proteins or nucleic acids.

are intended to be fused, joining them together to generate the product of the desired chemical reaction”.

The relevance of this work-still in a preliminary phase, can be estimated by its multiple potential applications. Indeed, Helio Faustino, a former CiQUS researcher, also responsible for the article, affirmed “we are confident that this discovery might eventually provide a very powerful chemical tool to investigate the functioning of cells at a molecular level.” Jose Couceiro, a postdoctoral researcher at the center, points out its importance highlighting that “it could be eventually used to selectively produce bioactive substances or drugs, just where their actions are specifically needed”.

However, Mascareñas prefers to be cautious: “We still have a lot to do, we are still working to optimize the reaction and improve its efficiency before demonstrating its effectiveness inside living systems, but there is no doubt that the results are very promising,” he said.

NEW SCIENCE IN CONVERTING BIOMASS

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n every plant—from trees to crops—there exists a substance that makes up its wood or stems, fibre, and cell walls. This substance is a complex natural polymer called lignin, and it is the second largest renewable carbon source on the planet after cellulose. This natural abundance has drawn high interest from the research community to chemically convert lignin into biofuels. And if plant life really does hold the building blocks for renewable fuels, it would seem that we are literally surrounded by potential energy sources everywhere green grows. But untangling the complex chains of these polymers into components, which can be useful for liquid fuel and other applications ranging from pharmaceuticals to plastics, has presented an ongoing challenge to science and industry. There are currently two common ways of processing lignin. One requires an acid plus high heat, and the other is pyrolysis, or treating with high heat in the absence of oxygen. Besides being energyconsuming processing methods, the results are less than optimal.

“You end up with individual molecules that are unstable and reactive, and they easily re-polymerize. It’s kind of a horrible mess, really,” explained Igor Slowing, an expert in heterogeneous catalysis at the US Department of Energy’s Ames Laboratory. “We need to be able to deconstruct lignin in a way that is economically feasible and into stable, readily useful components.”

Slowing and other scientists at Ames Laboratory are working to reach that commercialization goal, experimenting with chemical reactions that decompose lignin models at low temperatures

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

and pressures. There are already known ways of salvaging useful byproducts out of lignin through the addition of a stabilization process. But Slowing and his research team took both the decomposition and stabilization processes further, by combining the two into one multi-functional catalyst, using phosphatemodified ceria.

“Our process does the breaking of lignin-like material and the stabilization in a single step in very mild conditions,” said Slowing.

“The interesting thing is that though there are two different types of chemical processes happening in a single material, they appear to be working synergistically, and are able to do that at a lower temperature.”

In another experiment, Slowing’s research team was able to process a related material, phenol, into useful industrial precursors for nylon production. This work used a catalyst made of ceria and palladium doped with sodium, which increased the reactivity of the process significantly. They also eliminated the use of hydrogen, which is produced from steam-treatment of natural gas, and used an energy-conserving alcohol-based hydrogenation process instead.

“Both of these results were very promising, and our next step is to combine the two experiments into one, and achieve lignin deconstruction using hydrogen from a renewable source,” said Slowing.

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GREEN CHEMISTRY SILK COULD REVOLUTIONISE HOW GREENER MATERIALS ARE MANUFACTURED

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ew insights into how animals spin silk could lead to new, greener ways of producing synthetic fibres, according to academics at the University of Sheffield.

Researchers have revealed new insights into how silkworms spin silk

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esearchers from the University of Sheffield’s Department of Material Science and Engineering have shown that animals spin silk by pulling rather than pushing it out of their bodies. They suggest that if this process can be copied in an industrial setting, it could improve how synthetic materials are processed and offer more environmentally-friendly alternatives.

Conventional synthetic textiles are made by extrusion - pushing a liquid feedstock through a dye and then using high changes in temperature and exposure to harsh chemicals to solidify. However, silk can solidify into a fibre at room temperature and leave only water - therefore causing less environmental damage.

The new study, by academics at the University of Sheffield, is published in the journal Nature Communications.

Lead author Jamie Sparkes, a PhD student in the University of Sheffield’s Natural Materials Group, said: “Silk is one of the most promising green biomaterials, and could be the perfect replacement for nylon and polyester based clothing.”

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

“Traditional production process for silk is both arduous and time-consuming, but if we can bypass that by mimicking nature in an industrial setting, we could improve not only silk, but also how we process our synthetic materials.”

Researchers examined how animals, including silkworms and spiders, push materials like silk out of their bodies.

Dr Chris Holland, Head of the Natural Materials Group, said: “While it is easy to assume that silk is propelled out of the body like we see in comic books, we wanted to put that to the test.”

He added: “By combining computer models with experimental data and practical measurements, we determined the forces needed to squeeze unspun silk down the animals’ silk gland and spin a fibre.”

Sparkes added: “We found that to spin silk by extrusion (pushing), means a silkworm would have to squeeze itself hard enough to generate more pressure than a firing diesel engine.

“This isn’t possible as the animal’s body would be unable to contain that pressure.

It seems that you can’t squeeze silk like a tube of toothpaste.”

However, by measuring the forces required to pull silk from the animal’s body, the researchers found that it was well within the capability of the silkworm to pull a fibre, a process they refer to as pultrusion.

The researchers achieved this by adapting a rheometer, a machine used normally to measure the viscosity of liquids, into a highly sensitive spinning wheel, capable of measuring the forces needed to spin.

Holland said: “If I gave you a piece of chewing gum and asked you to make me a fibre, you wouldn’t push it through your teeth as it’s too stiff. You’d grab one end and pull it out - and that’s what the silkworm and spider do.”

The research was conducted by the Natural Materials Group in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield. It has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme and Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council grant.

SELF-HEALING MATERIALS INSPIRED BY PLANTS

Cross section of a Linum “Drakkar” stem with a 26-day-old wound parallel to the fibres

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magine car paint that can automatically repair itself after a scratch, or a corrosion-resistant coating that can automatically restore itself after being chipped off. These are just two of the promising new applications for self-healing materials – although numerous obstacles remain. “Each type of material poses a different challenge,” said Veronique Michaud, one of the study’s authors and head of the LPAC. “Some materials can already regenerate thanks to a system of liquids inside them.

If the material is scratched, the liquid flows out and reacts with the surrounding air, for example, to fill in the scratch. It’s similar to how your blood coagulates if you cut your finger.” But other materials are more complicated, and progress is still at the laboratory stage. That’s especially true for composite materials, which are used in aircraft and sporting equipment – and are the focus of the scientists’ work.

Changes in plants’ mechanical properties Out in the wild, plants must deal with a variety of stresses such as wind, rain and breakage. That’s why the scientists decided to study how the stems of flax plants change after they’ve been cut. “We chose flax because its fibers are already used to make composite materials, and because it’s a common plant that grows quickly,” said Michaud. They made lengthwise and crosswise incisions in the stems of two different families of flax plants and let them grow for 25 days next to plants that hadn’t been cut. They then measured changes in the stems’ stiffness and damping properties.

The scientists, which included EPFL researchers and a biology post-doctoral researcher from the University of Freiburg, applied a dynamic tensile load to the stems to measure the amount of force necessary to strain them and their temporal response both on intact stems and self-repaired ones. Stiffness and damping are also properties that researchers continually strive to improve in

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

materials; they must always find the right trade-off between these two factors, whether the aim is to avoid uncomfortable vibrations in a car, make sure a bicycle can ride smoothly over bumps or develop a responsive tennis racket. The testing methods and machines that the scientists used in their research on flax stems are the same as those used to test composite materials.

Different reactions depending on the type of wound The scientists also looked at how the stems healed from the incisions. They found that the response was different depending on whether the incision was lengthwise or crosswise. For lengthwise incisions, the plant cells surrounded the wound and created a sort of skin, but the stem did not regenerate. However, for crosswise incisions, the cells filled in the space created by the wound and healed it almost completely; the regenerated plants recovered 95 percent of their mechanical properties.

Other tests carried out at the University of Freiburg showed that self-healing results can vary according to the kind of plant and the severity of the damage for both the plant and its survival in its habitat. Self-healed plants were found to not grow as tall as their intact counterparts, but they did form flowers and seeds.

This study marks the first time that scientists have quantified the flax plant’s mechanical properties and ability to regenerate. It is also the first time that LPAC researchers carried out tests on plants using equipment designed for studying synthetic materials. The researchers hope to continue drawing from mechanisms occurring in nature to propose new strategies for creating composite materials.

This research was carried out under the EU-funded Marie-Curie Initial Training Network, “Self-Healing Materials: from Concepts to Market” (SHeMat), in association with the University of Freiburg in Germany.

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SECTOR VIEW PHARMA MANUFACTURING

PUTTING GMP IN PLACE

Is manufacturing enough or does incorporating good manufacturing practices give an additional edge?

BY DEBARATI DAS

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ndia boasts of being the third largest pharmaceutical industry in the world exporting pharma products to over 200 countries and aiming to become a $55 billion industry by 2020.

The galore of opportunity that is currently unfolding can take Indian pharmaceutical industry to new heights. There are several drugs that are going off patent by 2020 and if Indian companies innovate and develop new drugs, they can capture a huge chunk of the global industry.

However, one of the biggest hurdles faced by the Indian pharmaceutical industry today is to comply with various foreign regulations by incorporating good manufacturing practices (GMP) in every quarter of the supply chain.

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According to Assocham, the standards of GMP in many production plants in India fall well below the standards typically observed by international plants especially in Europe and US. Among 5,000 observations of deficiencies included inadequacy of CAPAs, deviation procedures lacking insufficient details, management failing to ensure an effective quality system and issues related to change controls like lack of post implementation review of effectiveness, etc.

“India continues to be the largest exporter of generic drugs to the US and even in this year, over 40 percent of the new drug approvals were from India. India still has the largest number of facilities approved

by US and other countries. However, there have been concerns on compliance and the industry is actively addressing it.

Most companies who export are aware of the requirements, the expectations are no doubt very stringent and industry needs to be up to date and always prepared. The CDSCO and local drug authorities are also raising the bar on their expectations which is a good move as this will help companies to raise their levels,” said Sunil Attavar, president, Karnataka Drugs and Pharmaceutical Association.

Recently, data integrity scrutiny has been increased not just in the US but also in Europe, Asia and Australia among other territories. Hence it becomes very important for Indian companies to comply with the global standards and avoid these data integrity problems which break trust with the foreign counterparts.

“As far as quality is concerned, things are getting tougher by the day. Most of the notices and problems that are arising are not always because of a failing product but because of data integrity issues that are being spotted by the USFDA. Every country has its own quality systems and standards. If we are to export to a particular country, it is imperative to comply to their regulations. However, India has its own Schedule M in place which is as good as WHO GMP and if that is properly implemented, most of the clauses are taken care of,” said Vinod Kalani, president, Rajasthan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association and co-chairman of Federation of Pharma Entrepreneurs (FOPE).

GMP lapses Recently, several major Indian pharmaceutical companies came under the radar of various foreign regulators who revoked their licences due to noncompliance of GMP. • India’s largest drug maker, Sun Pharma, was recently mauled by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) over lax quality control at its plants and not following good manufacturing practices.

The USFDA had found 11 quality lapses at the company’s Dadra unit, which included incomplete laboratory records, failure to

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

create accurate duplicates of key records, and improper investigation of drug batches that did not meet specifications, etc.

Later the company succeeded in getting a clearance from the USFDA earlier this year. The US FDA this year also lifted an import ban on Sun Pharma’s Mohali manufacturing plant in Punjab which was issued in 2013. However, the company’s plant at Halol in Gujarat is still under a warning letter from the US regulator while other few other plants are under import alert.

• French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety, which inspected Biocon’s Bengaluru plant on behalf of the European Medicine Agency (EMA) earlier this year found 35 deficiencies, including 11 major deficiencies at Biocon’s Bommasandra facility in Bengaluru with respect to GMP for activities related to three biosimilar products namely— Fulphila (Pegfilgrastim), Ogivri (Trastuzumab) and Semglee (Insulin Glargine) — for marketing authorisation in European Union. The regulator proposed suspension of marketing authorisation and prohibition of supply of the three products until the deficiencies are resolved.

• Lupin Ltd came under the US FDA scanner and was served the Form 483 after it noticed eight violations of GMP in the Aurangabad unit which include a lack of proper investigation of market complaints and adverse drug experiences, a lack of written review procedure for stored data, ineffective testing of finished products, and a lack of certain processes to control contamination. The US FDA cited three observations related to violation of norms in Lupin’s Goa as well.

• Aurobindo Pharma Ltd’s Hyderabad unit was also pulled up for seven violations recently by the regulator. The regulator noticed two key lapses: there were not enough controls over computers and who accessed them, and lack of procedures to prevent microbiological contamination of products purporting to be sterile. The FDA also observed that buildings and manufacturing were not maintained in a good state.

• Dr Reddy’s German subsidiary Betapharm Arzneimittel was mauled by the Regulatory Authority of the Germany (Regierung von Oberbayern) and revoked its GMP compliance certificate of the company’s formulations manufacturing unit -2 in Bachupally near Hyderabad.

The company’s two plants including the Srikakulam API unit called CTO-6 and Duvvada oncology and harmonal injectable facility in Andhra Pradesh were also under US FDA warning letter.

While some feel that the laws are too being made to stringent to follow, other manufacturers feel that small issues are being pecked up to be made into a major violation. But there are also others who feel

that the country’s pharma industry should raise their standards and first judiciously implement the already existing Indian regulations.

“The attitude of people needs to change.

There are procedures and they need to be followed. Quality shouldn’t be compromised to make way for building business. The company management should be quality conscious and make this the attitude of every person working in the company,” said Suresh Kamath, Vice President, Goa Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association.

“While Schedule M is more than sufficient for GMP, the government enforcement agencies that conduct inspections should be well equipped and trained to conduct inspections the way it is done by the foreign inspectors.”

“In India, we should have our own standards as per our ground reality instead of copying them. What works for US or Europe may not be viable in Indian situation. And by making the standards very rigid, very few people will be able to manufacture while the rest will be forced to move out of the competition,” opined Kalani.

Changing manufacturing practices If the industry aims to capture the global market, there are certain things that needs to be done on pronto.

• It is high time that the country’s pharma industry set criteria in quality production for global drug sector.

• Along with skills development, modernisation of production plants is a necessity.

• There is a need for single standard rather than multiple regulations to govern quality yardstick.

• Continuous improvement, upgradation and use of self-assessment should be made a part of the system.

• Since most of the problems arise due to data integrity, it is important that companies invest time and resources in design of documents, systems and products.

Good manufacturing practices should not be an exclusive entity for export items which is dusted out of the cupboards when foreign regulators come home. It should be a part of every manufacturing parameter to quantify quality.

“We have to move from preparing for audit to being always prepared for one. We have to move from being compliance driven to become customer focused, build quality in our design, make risk assessment and management an integral part of our quality management system. But most of all, we have to bring pride in the profession of a pharmacist and make it a career of choice,” said Attavar.

37

FEATURES LAB CHEMICALS

DISCOVERING NEW

CHEMICAL EQUATIONS 38

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

BY DEBARATI DAS

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e it medicine, agriculture or addressing environmental issues, the chemical industry is constantly trying to find a better combination of formulae to bring in a significant change to the society. Laboratory chemicals is becoming more and more important to the industry with rejuvenated boost for research.

The future of the world’s dynamics heavily depends on innovation. Every country, every company and every scientist today, is aiming to develop path breaking technologies, medicines and innovative researches that will change the course of science and unveil new solutions. Innovation is the key to every industry’s growth and research and development is being given more and more importance today.

And hence, laboratory chemicals are witnessing significant growth.

By definition, laboratory chemicals are compounds or substances that enable a chemical reaction, which help to either measure, detect, or manufacture other chemical substances. These chemicals are extensively used on a large scale for commercial applications, as well as, research and development purposes.

The laboratory chemicals market is growing primarily due to increasing usage in basic research applications, coupled with large-scale commercial applications. Moreover, growing interest of the world scientific community in such chemicals is anticipated to escalate the growth of the laboratory chemicals market.

Healthcare sectors is one of the fastest growing sectors in this field with fast advancements in technologies such as cell culture, recombinant DNA, and bio-therapeutics which has enhanced the scientific community’s ability to identify and produce important human therapeutic agents over the years. Other fields such as neurosciences and proteomics, are also expected to help drive the market growth in the future.

Antibodies are becoming increasingly significant diagnostic and therapeutic tool for targeting diseased cells and cell compounds. A huge array of new antibodies is entering the market offering effective treatment for a range of diseases. The market for monoclonal antibodies is expanding rapidly throughout the world since it offers effective treatment of diseases that include infectious

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

diseases, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory diseases, as well as cancer, and autoimmune diseases. The increasing launch of new monoclonal antibody therapeutic products will give an additional boost to lab chemical market.

Molecular biology is yet another area which constitutes the largest application area of laboratory chemical. Molecular biology, which is a study of the interaction of macromolecules present in living cells, utilises reagents of classes such as monoclonal & polyclonal antibodies; gene expression, vectors, cloning & sequencing; and gene synthesis, among others. According to reports, cytokine & chemokine testing will become one of the fastest growing application area in the near future.

Geographically, North America holds the largest market share of the global laboratory chemical reagents market due to innovations in the nucleic acid testing procedures, technological advancements and improvements in cell and tissue culture technology. According to reports, advancements in molecular pathology assays will further drive the growth of this market.

However, Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to become the fastest growing region due to the increasing number of new academic centers, pharmaceutical companies, diagnostic centers and a geographical shift of chemical and pharmaceutical businesses to India and China regions. With this, there has been a significant increase in investment on research and development activities enabling more test analysis.

Also increasing clinical research outsourcing activities in the Asian region will further heighten the demand for chemical lab for measuring drug quality, testing the quality of products in the chemical industry, food industry or biological areas of research and development. Apart from this, Central Asia, Africa and European countries also hold significant growth opportunities for lab chemicals industry.

The scope of lab chemicals is immense; biotechnology, academic segment, non-academic segment and corporate segment, are just some of the end users of laboratory chemical reagents. With rising need for new innovations and passion to discover new solutions, the laboratory chemicals market is sure to witness a gigantic growth.

39

INTERNATIONAL FOCUS KOREA

CHEMICAL SECTOR CONTINUES

TO BE BACKBONE OF ECONOMIC GROWTH

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BY SONAL SRIVASTAVA

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espite a series of political turmoil and wars in 1953, Korea has continued to witness prolonged economic growth over the years. Its economy has travelled a path of revival with the constant and robust development in the manufacturing industry. The economy of Korea mainly thrives on the development of the manufacturing industry. In the aftermath of the devastating war, chemical industry has contributed majorly towards rebuilding the economic structure of Korea. On the back of strong manufacturing and technology sector, Korea has been able to maintain a strong position in the global economic order.

A recently published news report states that the global demand for goods produced in South Korea has improved, which has continued to support growth in the second half of 2017. According to the government of Korea, the economy is expected to expand at 3 percent in 2017. The news report further mentioned that this has been the fastest growth witnessed since 3.3 percent in 2014. In line with the expanding national economy, the chemical sector ranks as the third largest industry in Korea, and fifth in terms of production globally.

Emergence of Economy through Shambles Following the devastating war, the economic structure of Korea was left under the shambles of untamable inflation rates and disruptive production activities.

Marked by the advancing technology, globalization and rapid industrialization, the economy of Korea has continued to travel on a promising path. The chemical industry has significantly contributed towards the economic development of South Korea. To recover from the economic turmoil, the government authorities initiated the Soviet-esque Heavy and Chemical Industrialization Five-year Plan in order to boost competition globally in terms of machinery, chemicals and electronics. Initiation of the industrial drive led to an increase in the per capita income by over five times between 1972 and 1979.

With the launch of this program, the government authorities were mainly aiming to level up Korea as a leading producer of the petrochemical products globally. In an attempt to establish itself as a leading petrochemical producer, the government authorities in South Korea established two complexes of petrochemical - Yeosu and Ulsan. Establishment of the two petrochemical industries launched the nascent industry onto the global platform.

Besides the economic turmoil, the financial crisis in Asia during 1997 and 1998 exposed the development model of South Korea to a long-standing weakness that lead to increase in foreign borrowings due to high

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

debt ratios. However, increasing reforms unfurled lucrative opportunities for the manufacturing industry in the country.

In an attempt to strike a balance between imports and exports of the country, the ruling authorities encouraged exports through investment in manufacturing industry. Attributed to these factors, demand for the Korean chemical and petrochemical products continued to increase over the years. Bound to increasing contribution of the chemical industry, the economy of Korea has revived from the turmoil significantly.

Competing to Become the Global and Regional Hub for Chemical Manufacturing The chemical sector in Korea has addressed various domestic and global challenges.

Heavy reliance on exports, inflexible labour market, dominance of major corporations and aging population posed significant challenges to the ruling authorities. In order to reduce increasing reliance on the exports, the government mainly focused on the development of domesticoriented sectors. These high-demand industries include automobiles, electronics, healthcare, aviation and machinery.

Increasing demand for products from these industries continue to drive growth of the chemical industry in Korea. The chemical industry in Korea has been witnessed to replace the increasing reliance on imports with the domestic production of paints, pharmaceuticals, and paints. Surge in the domestic productions further helped the country in striking a balance between the imports and exports ratio.

Further, South Korea continues to adopt enhanced technology from various developed countries to compete as a global and regional chemical hub. The chemical industry of the country is expected to witness a significant transformation from a large-scale commodity industry to an industry that is subject to emerging opportunities and challenges. These factors are expected to contribute towards growth of the chemical industry of Korea significantly in the upcoming years.

Government Initiatives to Propel Growth The government is increasingly focusing on investments in environment friendly technologies along with research and development in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology and electronic chemicals and nanotechnology. Investment in these industries remain important for South Korea in order to establish itself as a leading chemical hub globally and regionally.

Investment plans such as “Material and Components Technology 2012� by the ruling authorities in Korea has encouraged companies to make investments in

emerging technologies to enhance the clean energy and green chemistry. The clean energy and green chemistry continues to witness considerable demand in areas such as light-emitting diodes, solar energy and renewable energy. These factors continue to impact growth of the chemical sector in Korea significantly.

In addition, more than 400 chemical engineering companies based in Korea continue to attract foreign investment and propel growth of the chemical sector of the country. Moreover, various companies based in South Korea including Samsung SDI, Hanwha Chemicals and LG Chem (Lucky Goldstar Chemical) continue to contribute toward the research and development activities led by the government. Increasing demand for enhanced production in various industries and increasing investment in research and development will remain the major factors propelling growth of the chemical sector in Korea.

Growth of the chemical sector in Korea is mainly bound to consolidation and restructuring of the industry. As the leading companies based in Korea are mainly focusing on expanding their services towards specialty chemical sector, the chemical industry is likely to underscore new and lucrative growth opportunities.

Collaborations with the multinational companies will also enable the companies based in Korea to reduce the cost of production. As various companies focus on entering into joint ventures with companies that provide with proprietary technology in growing sectors such as the electronic and semiconductor industry, demand for the chemical products will continue to rev up within and outside the country.

Significant demand from China will offer even the inefficient producers an easy access to benefits of profitability and growth.

Increasing domestic demand and robust manufacturing industry will continue to impact growth prospects of the chemical industry in Korea positively. Attributed to these factors, chemical sector in Korea is expected to witness impressive growth in the upcoming years. Moreover, high technological base is expected to benefit the major companies in the chemical industry. State sponsored nurturing of chemical sector in South Korea will further fuel growth in the manufacturing industry.

Progress in the chemical and manufacturing industry is expected to boost the export of the country. Robust manufacturing sector the chemical sector will continue to cater to the increasing demands within the region.

Boost in exports is expected to impact the economic growth of the country positively.

Bound to these factors, the chemical sector in Korea will continue to witness promising growth over the coming years.

Author: Sonal Srivastava is Features Writer at Future Market Insights

41

MARKET UPDATES EXXONMOBIL EXPANDS NEW JERSEY RESEARCH

CENTRE FOR ENERGY SOLUTIONS

Vijay Swarup, vice president of research and development, ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company, with Clinton Township Mayor John Higgins during the expansion ground-breaking.

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xxonMobil Corporation has broken ground on the expansion of its research facility in Clinton, New Jersey, a key centre of innovation that supports the company’s broad research and development programmes.

Expansion of the facility, home to ExxonMobil’s fundamental and process research and development, including advancing algae biofuel and carbon capture technologies, is expected to be completed in 2019 and will include employees relocating from its research facility in Paulsboro, New Jersey.

ExxonMobil is engaged in a broad range of programmes and partnerships focused

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on developing scalable, energy solutions to meet global demand while minimizing environmental impacts and mitigating the risk of climate change.

The expanded facility in Clinton will include a new engine testing centre, a lubricant research and development blend plant, and enhancements to existing facilities to accommodate employees relocating from Paulsboro.

“The expansion of our New Jersey research and engineering centre will improve collaboration across our organization and enhance our ability to accelerate breakthroughs in new and emerging technologies,” said Bruce March, president

of ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company.

“By co-locating our R&D and products technology organizations in Clinton, we expect to bring potential new technologies online faster and at the scale necessary to meet the world’s growing needs for energy,” he added.

“Our research addresses key elements of the dual challenge we currently face, which means supplying energy for modern life and improving living standards while minimizing impacts on the environment, including the risks of climate change,” said Vijay Swarup, vice president of research and development, ExxonMobil.

EXXONMOBIL STARTS PRODUCTION AT

NEW MONT BELVIEU POLYETHYLENE LINE

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xxonMobil Chemical Company has started production on the first of two new 650,000 tonnes-per-year high-performance polyethylene lines at its plastics plant in Mont Belvieu, Texas.

The full project, part of the company’s multi-billion-dollar expansion project in the Baytown area and ExxonMobil’s broader Growing the Gulf expansion initiative, will increase the plant’s polyethylene capacity by approximately 1.3 million tonnes per year.

The Mont Belvieu plant capacity will total more than 2.5 million tonnes per year, making it one of the largest polyethylene plants in the world. These performance polyethylene products will deliver significant sustainability benefits enabling lighter weight higher performance packaging, lower energy consumption and reduced emissions. A significant portion of Mont Belvieu polyethylene will be exported from the Port of Houston later this month. At peak,

the site will ship more than 200 containers a day.

ExxonMobil is planning to invest more than $20 billion over 10 years to build and expand manufacturing facilities in the US Gulf region. The expansion covers 11 major chemical, refining, lubricant and liquefied natural gas projects along the Texas and Louisiana coasts.

“The expansion of our Mont Belvieu facility further enhances our ability to meet growing global demand for high-performance polyethylene products around the world. The investments we’re making through our Growing the Gulf initiative will not only expand our existing manufacturing and export capacity, but will further stimulate local economic growth and create thousands of full-time jobs,” said Neil Chapman, president of ExxonMobil Chemical Company.

BASF OPENS BIOCATALYZED ACRYLAMIDE

PRODUCTION PLANT IN CHINA

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ASF SE has opened a new state-of-the-art production plant for biocatalyzed acrylamide at its site in Nanjing Chemical Industrial Park, China.

With this investment in its wholly-owned BioACM plant in Nanjing, BASF is strengthening its production set-up for reliable and high-quality supply of polyacrylamide to customers in Asia Pacific, especially in China. The plant has a capacity of more than 50,000 tonnes of biocatalyzed acrylamide per year. Acrylamide is used in the production of water-soluble flocculation aids that make wastewater treatment and papermaking, as well as mineral processing and enhanced oil recovery, more efficient and less resource-intensive. This new plant further strengthens BASF’s position in the region and will help expand cost-competitive supply to meet the growing demand of these water-intensive industries.

BASF has been producing biocatalyzed acrylamide in Suffolk, US,

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

since 2014 and started operations at its European BioACM plant in Bradford, England, in 2016. With this successful start-up in China, BASF now has three state-of-the-art production facilities located in key markets worldwide.

“The construction of a new polyacrylamide production line is currently underway and is expected to go on stream in 2018. With investments into upstream and downstream plants, we continue to strengthen our position as a leading partner for the paper and water treatment industries,” said Andreas Tuerk, senior vice president paper and water chemicals from BASF. “The BioACM plant at Nanjing is built according to BASF’s high global standards of safety and environmental protection,” added Bradley Morrison, senior vice president, operations and site management, Greater China, BASF.

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MARKET UPDATES

NIPPON SHOKUBAI BREAKS GROUND

FOR NEW API SYNTHESIS FACILITY

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ippon Shokubai Co Ltd held a ground-breaking ceremony, for the construction of a facility of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) synthesis. The construction will be completed in December 2018.

In the current long-term business plan “Reborn Nippon Shokubai 2020” started in 2014 and the 2nd medium-term Business Plan “Reborn Nippon Shokubai 2020 NEXT” started in 2017, Nippon Shokubai has a plan to open up a health and medical business field as one of the new business domains. Targeting the peptide drugs, nucleic-acid drugs and DDS where market growth is expected, Nippon Shokubai is establishing a drug development support business that provides customers a consistent service from drug discovery & clinical studies to contract manufacturing.

In order to establish a business base on these promising areas, Nippon Shokubai keeps on not only seeking out chances of business partnerships with innovative technical resources outside the company but also studying a feasibility of establishing function of manufacturing these kinds of APIs. In terms of manufacturing these kinds of APIs, this is one of the biggest facilities of API synthesis in Japan. By utilizing this facility as same as a laboratory of API synthesis established in September 2016, Nippon Shokubai will be able to manufacture peptide drugs and nucleic acid drugs APIs from mg scale to kg scale in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).

Appearance (image) of the API synthesis facility.

IFF COMMISSIONS NEW FRAGRANCE

INGREDIENTS PLANT IN CHINA

I

nternational Flavours & Fragrances Inc (IFF) said that it is commissioning a new fragrance ingredients plant in Jiande, China. The plant underscores IFF’s commitment to the region and builds on the company’s global presence for the sector. The new facility occupies approximately 165,000 square meters and will serve IFF customers globally.

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training, teaching approximately 100 Chinese employees through 2018 in production skills, safety best practices, sustainability, and more. IFF’s employee base in China is the company’s third-largest globally.

The plant was designed to help deliver on IFF’s strategic sustainability goals and to minimize its environmental impact with a special focus on areas of greatest sensitivity to the region.

“IFF has a legacy of innovation and excellence in fragrance ingredients. This long-planned investment underscores our continued commitment to providing our customers with the best possible products and service,” said Andreas Fibig, IFF chairman and CEO.

By leveraging the latest technologies available, the company believes that from the first full year of production, the Jiande plant will be one of IFF’s most resource-efficient manufacturing locations globally.IFF’s existing plant in China will serve as its centre for

“The commissioning of the Jiande plant opens an exciting new chapter in our history in China and we look forward to a successful – and sustainable – future with our partners and people,” added Nicolas Mirzayantz, IFF group president fragrances.

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

AKZONOBEL COMPLETES CHEMICAL

ISLAND EXPANSION IN BRAZIL

The new chemical island is also the largest of the four being operated by AkzoNobel to serve the Brazilian pulp industry.

A

kzoNobel’s speciality chemicals business has completed the expansion of a chemical island in Brazil, to support a major project for Brazilian forestry company Fibria. The world’s leading producer of eucalyptus pulp from planted forests, Fibria has invested $2.2 billion to more than double pulp capacity at its mill in Tres Lagoas to 3.25 million tonnes per year.

The expansion of the chemical island (a concept developed by AkzoNobel) includes the installation of a second chlorine dioxide plant, as well as increased space for storage and logistics. The chemical island concept provides pulp mill customers with a sustainable and cost-effective solution for the production and supply of bleaching chemicals as well as services for other chemical processes.

The new production line in Tres Lagoas (Mato Grosso do Sul state) is now the largest single pulp line in the world and strengthens Fibria’s leading market position. The new chemical island is also

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

the largest of the four being operated by AkzoNobel to serve the Brazilian pulp industry.

“We are a dedicated partner with Fibria and have now supplied five of their six chlorine dioxide units, including the two at Tres Lagoas,” said Antonio Carlos Francisco, general manager of bleaching chemicals South America for AkzoNobel’s pulp and performance chemicals business.

“The close proximity to our customer provides important sustainability benefits by reducing transportation, and we also reduce our carbon footprint by operating the chemical island with 100 percent bio-energy from biomass that derives from the pulp mill,” added Carlos.

“We are proud to have a well-established and sustainable footprint for the pulp industry in Brazil,” said Niek Stapel, managing director of AkzoNobel’s pulp and performance chemicals business.

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INSIGHTS INNOVATION

CREATING THE FUTURE TOGETHER Dow India Innovation Day 2017

Rajeev Kapoor, Secretary, Ministry of Chemicals & Petrochemicals being felicitated after the keynote address by Heinz Haller and Dow India CEO, Sudhir Shenoy (right)

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

W

ith a focus on ‘Creating the Future Together’, Dow India held the second edition of its India Innovation Day 2017, in Mumbai recently.

Innovation, sustainability and material science solutions, were part of the discussion, that looked to contribute to the changing manufacturing and industry landscape of India’s growing economy.

The event witnessed global and local leaders of the organization coming together with over 300 key customers and stakeholders.

RAJEEV KAPOOR, Secretary, Department of Chemicals and petrochemicals, ministry of chemicals and fertilizers, GOI, highlighted importance of innovation and the need to push the growth levers of manufacturing to the next level.

“The Indian chemical industry needs to create an ecosystem that promotes research and development (R&D). We as a country have unique challenges – and addressing these will require local effort, resources and investments. One of the most important areas of focus should be reducing import dependence for feedstock,” Kapoor said, delivering the keynote address.

“It is important that the Government and industry collaborate to outline the sector priorities and work with each other in addressing oncoming challenges,” he added.Emphasizing his optimism for the country, Heinz Haller, executive vice president and president, Dow Europe, Middle East, Africa and India (EMEAI), said “From clean water to safe food-packaging, renewable sources of energy, digital communication, efficient transport, energy saving insulation and agriculture – chemistry is one of the centerpieces of any economic activity. India being the bright-spot of global economy will need continued inflow of feedstock. Our joint-venture with Saudi Aramco – Sadara, will provide an outstanding opportunity for India to drive competitive and sustainable growth in the sector.”

Dr A N Sreeram, senior vice president and chief technology officer, outlined the key areas of focus for innovation and showcased how the company keeps pace with evolving formulation needs across various businesses. He shared examples from various sectors that showcased how circular economy will be the underlying trend in creating a sustainable future.

Speaking on how Dow India is meeting the development demands of the country, Sudhir Shenoy, country president and CEO, Dow India said, “Innovation cuts across the realms of processes, products, business models and solutions for us at Dow India. In India, we are witnessing a convergence of local demands with renewed focus on manufacturing. I believe this trend will benefit the chemical industry significantly and we see merit in coming together to co-create sustainable solutions for India and the subcontinent.”

Among other noteworthy sessions, was one on ‘fortune at the bottom of the pyramid’ by D R Mehta, ex-chairman of SEBI and founder and chief patron – Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) – the organization that has put the prosthetic Jaipur foot on the world map. He said, “The first Jaipur Foot was made of vulcanised rubber structure. While the basic design remains the same – the model has gone through several developments since. We partnered with Dow India in 2006 to develop the Jaipur PU Foot which is lighter, more flexible and cost 25 percent lesser. While most orthopedics believe that Jaipur Foot is the closest prosthetic to a human limb, we are still working with research institutes and organizations like Stanford University, MIT and Dow to take this initiative to the next level, to create innovation that provides a second chance at life and livelihood.”

Over 300 eminent CXO-level leaders from top manufacturing companies in the country, were joined by the top brass of leadership of the company. The event included three panel discussions on themes of Circular Economy, Breakthrough Innovations: Fortune at the Bottom of the Pyramid, and Innovation Ecosystem of India.

Over the last 60 years of its business in the country, Dow India has been driving innovations at the intersection of material sciences to address challenges such as need for sustainable infrastructure, recyclable packaging, need for clean water, clean energy generation and conservation, and increasing agricultural productivity. The event saw leaders from industries like infrastructure, agriculture, consumer goods, personal care, pharmaceuticals ideate and brainstorm on the ways of making India the innovation hub of the world.

On looking panel discussions: global business leaders and customers convene at India Innovation Day 2017

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

47

REPORT HIGH POTENCY APIS

RISING INCIDENCE OF

CANCER TO DRIVE THE MARKET

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

Industry Insights

Product Insights

The global high potency active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) market was valued at $14.4 billion in 2016 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.3 percent over the forecast period.

Highly potent APIs are capable of targeting diseased cell selectively and more precisely than other compounds. Increasing incidence of cancer resulted in increasing R&D pertaining to anticancer drugs which thereby propelling the demand for HPAPIs over the forecast period.

Segmentation of high potency API market on the basis of products is done in to synthetic and biotech. Synthetic molecules is considered to be the largest market in 2016 in terms of revenue share owing to the easier protocols for synthesis of these molecules coupled with higher availability of raw material. The biotech segment is expected to witness lucrative growth owing to the technological advancements in this segment and high level of efficacy of these ingredients.

The rising number of biotech & pharmaceutical industry and increasing investments in R&D sector in developing economies such as Asia and Latin America regions are key factors expected to provide growth platform over the forecast period.

Biotech products are expected to show significant growth during the forecast period owing to increasing demand for biologics and associated benefits such as minimum side effects and higher efficacy levels. In addition, shifting of consumer preference from synthetic to biotech molecules is factor attributing towards the higher penetration rate of biologics.

Rising incidence of cancer is expected to drive the HPAPI market over the forecast period.

Side effects related to chemotherapy such as it also affects non cancerous cells hence targeted therapy approach is gaining popularity as it does not harm non cancerous cells. This is attributed to the rising demand of HPAPI in the future.

The characteristics possessed by these anticancerous drugs such as minimum exposure of drug to the non cancerous cell & effectiveness are the factor contributing to the market growth. In addition HPAPI are also used as antibody drug conjugates (ADCs). ADC are the most important & effective treatment in combination with monoclonal antibodies & biologically active drug for the cancer.

The drug’s use for cancer treatment is cytotoxic in nature and is harmful to the non cancerous cells which cause extensive damage to patient’s health. Pharmaceutical industry is facing challenge related to harmful side effects of these drugs on normal cells of the body. While use of less effective drug is ineffective in cancer treatment hence the need for targeted therapy approach came into existence. HPAPI target cancer tissue effectively coupled with minimum exposure of drugs to healthy tissues HPAPI are most commonly used in hormonal drugs which are used in treatment of breast cancer. Glaucoma is the other most important application of HPAPI. Increasing demand of drugs for the treatment of glaucoma is expected to drive the market growth. The HPAPIs also found application in cardiovascular drugs, central nervous system drugs and musculoskeletal drugs.

Increasing demand for these drugs during the forecast period is anticipated to propel the market growth in coming years. In addition, rising usage of HPAPI in gynecology & cosmetics are accounted for the further growth

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

Biotech HPAPI mainly consists of drug molecules obtained after usage of molecular techniques such as recombinant DNA technology. The genes expressing these molecules are transferred into expression vector for synthesis of the higher amount of drug molecule in less time.

Biotech HPAPI is mostly peptides and other forms of enzymes. The market for Biotech HPAPI is expected to witness lucrative growth owing to the technological advancements in this segment and high level of efficacy of these ingredients.

Manufacturer Insights Increasing incidence of chronic disorders such as cancer and others along with patent expiration of blockbuster drugs thereby boosting generics drug manufacturing. Rising demand for biotech synthesis drugs and introduction of innovative therapeutics are the key factors favoring competitive growth.

Incorporation of continuous process technology for the production of petrochemicals and polymers are further contributing toward the market growth. Emergence of multiple separation technology including filtration, purification and fermentation processes with advanced technology to provide growth platform to this market over the forecast period.

Manufacturers in High potency API include in-house and outsourced. In-house market dominated the overall industry in terms of revenue share owing to the higher availability of raw material and intensive capitalization of major key players in development of high end manufacturing facility. HPAPI molecules are manufactured by some pharmaceutical companies in their own manufacturing facilities.

Pharmaceutical companies have made huge amount of investments in developing in house

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REPORT HIGH POTENCY APIS capabilities and specialized requirements for in house HPAPI investments.

Contract manufacturing services are also increasing in this field and are expected to witness lucrative growth. Contract manufacturing and outsourcing of HPAPI molecule development is growing trend in pharmaceutical sector. Companies such as Evonik and Lonza are actively involved in providing contract manufacturing services to other companies. Introduction of advancements in manufacturing technology such as single use production and batch culture fermentation for separating molecules is anticipated to offer opportunities for contract manufactures in coming years.

Drug Type Insights HPAPI drugs are segmented as innovative and generic. Innovative drugs segment dominated the drug type in terms of revenue share owing to the rising research and development activities for novel drug development coupled with favorable government initiatives. Expiration of patents of branded drug molecules is expected to increase the growth of generic drugs over the forecast period.

Established R&D facilities, increasing amount of funding and favorable regulatory structure are key factors for growth of innovative HPAPI market. Owing to extensive research in this field many novel innovative products are in pipeline and are expected to launch in the forecast period.

New entrants in this segment are expected to fuel the growth of this market.

Introduction of advancements in the manufacturing of novel molecules with better efficacy and lower dosage for cancer treatment is another factor contributing toward the segment growth.

Patent expiry of branded drug molecules is primary factor attributing to lucrative growth of generic HPAPI drugs. Generic drug market is expected to show lucrative growth in countries such as India and Brazil owing to presence of unmet clinical needs in this area and high acceptance levels for OTC drugs.

Application Insight HPAPI are used majorly in treatment of hormonal imbalance, oncology, glaucoma and others. Oncology segment dominated the overall industry owing to the rising cancer incidences worldwide. Cancer is

estimated to be second most common cause for mortality in the US. Extensive R&D is also undertaken by many companies for development of drugs specific to novel biomarkers. These molecules are also widely used in Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs) form which is an effective and important development in the field of cancer treatment.

Hormonal followed oncology owing to increasing hormonal imbalance cases mainly in female population. Sedentary lifestyle has increased prevalence of metabolic disorders. Hormonal imbalance is growing concern in majority of countries.

The disorders include sexual hormone imbalance and thyroid problems.

Glaucoma is primarily caused due to increase in blood sugar levels. Increasing lifestyle changes and growing obese population are key factors increasing the usage of glaucoma drugs. The applications of HPAPIs are developing in the treatment of neurological, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal drugs. These molecules are also find applications in certain gynecological, high potency analgesics, and cosmetic applications.

Regional Insight North America recorded the largest revenue of the overall industry as of 2016. The growth is primarily due to the rising chronic disease patients coupled with increasing demand for fast acting and higher efficacy drugs. Furthermore, increasing awareness pertaining to highly potent drugs, rising demand for anti-cancerous therapeutics and growing number of biotechnology industries are the factors attributing to dominant share.

North America have highly regulated and developed pharmaceutical industry.

Incidence of cancer is higher, in this region hence, cancer therapy drugs show lucrative growth and is expected to be the same during the future period. Increasing incidence of older age diseases with changing lifestyle are the key contributing factors for growing demand for HPAPIs in this region.

The U.S. held the dominant market share of high potency APIs in North America. The key industry players holding majority of market share in this region are SAFC, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Bristol Myers Squibb, Cambrex Ferro and Carbogen Amcis. Asia Pacific region is expected to register high

growth owing to the flourishing generic drug market, developing healthcare infrastructure and presence of untapped opportunities.

Growing investments in biotechnology sector, supportive government initiatives and rapidly growing oncology market are the factors expected to propel the industry growth in this region.

In addition, growing generic sector business and improving healthcare facilities is anticipating the further growth in the near future. Healthcare infrastructure is growing rapidly in Asian countries, especially in India & China. The demand for oncology drugs is expected to fuel the market growth over the forecast period.

Competitive Insights The key companies of this industry include Lonza, Novartis International AG, BASF AG, Carbogen Amcis AG, Eli Lilly and Company, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd Bristol-Myers Squibb, Pfizer Inc, Roche Diagnostics, Hospira Inc, Boehringer Ingelheim, Covidien Plc, Merck & Co, Bayer AG, Sigma-Aldrich Corporation and Sanofi Aventis.

The market for branded HPAPIs is consolidated with few players involved in intense competition and rivalry. Increasing production of generics is expected to trigger the competition in this market place. In addition, manufactures focus is shifting toward the implementation of strategies such as product launch post patent expiration, mergers & acquisitions and collaborations activities, geographic expansion are anticipated to keep industry rivalry at higher levels.

Moreover, rising outsourcing activities due to high cost of investment and stringent regulations for the production of HPAPI drugs which is expected to keep the competition at higher level over the forecast period. Many pharmaceutical companies are investing in new HPAPIs production facilities; some are planning existing production capacity expansion in order to meet the fast growing demand.

Captive manufacturing for HPAPIs is cost intensive and requires a lot of safety and handling specifications. Owing to this many of the drug formulating companies are closing their in-house production facility and shifting towards contract outsourcing.

The HPAPIs contract outsourcing is growing in India and China due to the cost advantage.

Source: Grand View Research Inc

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

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Chemical Today Magazine | May 2017

REPORT PHARMA CONTINUOUS MANUFACTURING

BIOLOGICS SEGMENT

DOMINATES THE MARKET 52

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

Market Snapshot In pharmaceutical continuous manufacturing technology, active ingredients are produced in compact, closed units, leveraging automation.

Hence, it requires fewer manual interventions.

Production steps carried out sequentially in a classic batch process are combined in a continuous process. All these help to bring about continued utilization of production capacity.

This in turn serves to reduce fluctuations in production, improve yields, and lower costs of operation and equipment. On account of such advantages, the method is seeing fast adoption.

Other advantages of pharmaceutical continuous manufacturing technology is the superior development speeds, higher process safety when employing hazardous chemistries, and the opportunity to perform reactions that cannot be run under batch processing.

A study by Transparency Market Research forecasts the global pharmaceutical continuous manufacturing technology market to expand at a healthy CAGR of 8.8 percent from 2017 to 2025. Expanding at this pace, the market which was worth $1.74 bn in 2016 is expected to attain a value of $3.693 bn in 2025.

Contract Manufacturing Organizations in Asia Pacific to Drive Market Some of the key application segments of the global pharmaceutical continuous manufacturing technology market are biologics, dry powders, active pharmaceutical ingredients etc. Of them, the segment of biologics accounts for a dominant position in the market. It held a share of about 35.3 percent in the global market in 2016. It was trailed by active pharmaceutical ingredient.

Application-wise, the global pharmaceutical continuous manufacturing technology market can be divided into contract manufacturing organizations, pharmaceutical companies etc.

Currently, pharmaceutical companies lead the market with maximum demand and are trailed by contract manufacturing organizations. In the near future, the contract manufacturing organizations in Asia Pacific region are predicted to fuel market growth majorly.

Along with increasing awareness about the technology, various initiatives by FDA are also egging manufacturers to shift to continuous manufacturing over batch manufacturing process.

Demand for Better Technology Propels Europe Market From a geographical standpoint, currently Europe dominates the global pharmaceutical continuous manufacturing technology market.

Strong demand for advanced technology from pharmaceutical companies and presence of many contract manufacturing entities has majorly fuelled the market in the region. The growth in Europe is primarily powered by the UK and Germany. The region’s leading share in 2016 came to around 35 percent. The market in the region is also expected to outshine others in terms of growth by registering a CAGR of 9.6 percent in the forecast period. Expanding at this pace, it is predicted to clock a revenue of $1.38 bn by 2025. This is mainly on account of the early availability of advanced technologies and greater number of technology providers across the region.

Asia Pacific trails Europe vis-a-vis market share. In 2016, the region held a share of about 34 percent in the global pharmaceutical continuous manufacturing market. The growth in Asia Pacific has been mainly driven by China and India, which are home to numerous contract manufacturing organizations. China is considered a highly promising market because of increasing acceptability of technologically advanced continuous manufacturing and growing awareness about the advantages of the technology.

North America comes in the third position in terms of market size. Initiatives by FDA to switch from current batch process to continuous manufacturing technology drives interest among the pharmaceutical companies.

Some of the prominent participants in the global pharmaceutical continuous manufacturing technology market are Siemens AG, GEA group, Continuus Pharmaceutical, S K Biotek ltd, Korsch AG, Scott Equipment Company, Corning Life Sciences and Chemtrix.

Source: Transparency Market Research

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

53

REPORT PHARMACEUTICAL CONTRACT PACKAGING

STRICTER NORMS BY GOVERNING

AGENCIES TO PUSH MARKET 54

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

T

he pharmaceutical industry across globe is changing at a break neck pace with a lot of trends and business relationships. The changes not only involves new medical developments, patents and corresponding equipment, but also the roles of all stakeholders. One such new trend is pharmaceutical contract packaging market.

The first understanding which strikes our mind with the word pharmaceutical contract packaging is that packaging which caters to only for pharmaceutical industry.

Pharmaceutical contract packaging refers to the outsourcing of packaging activities to Third party vendors. Drug manufacturing companies are shifting to subcontract these non-core services in order to save time and expenses.

It can be anticipated that in coming time pharmaceutical contract manufacturing will expand exponentially and register a healthy growth over the forecast period.

Drivers & Restraints Contract packagers can sort out multiple issues related to unusual packaging needs or take up any packaging project from beginning to end. With advancement of medical science development of medicines for various diseases and deficiency the requirement of packaging of such medicines also multiplied with time. Conventional medicines altogether with alternative medicines are moving fast to meet patient’s demand.

Pharmaceutical companies instead of investment in packaging for end products are now outsourcing the job of packaging of end product to those companies who are capable and specialized in handling packaging of medicines. Medicines are manufactured at one location and are sold across globe in order to meet local market acceptance those medicines need to be packed with information as well as packaging material as per se the market.

Packaging of pharmaceutical drugs are a critical aspect as the product need to be safe for patient consumption which may not be forte for pharmaceutical company but for the contract manufacturing. Necessity of specialization of packaging has boost up an alternative industry contract manufacturing which is being now a source of employee.

Expansion of senior age population, governing agencies pushing stricter norms on packaging and growing public interest for innovative packaging are few of the drivers which will drive pharmaceutical Contract packaging market.

Contract pharmaceutical packaging industry has yet started and hasn’t gained strong foothold but over the forecast period the contract pharmaceutical packaging will grow.

Segmentation The global Pharmaceutical Contract packaging market is segmented on the basis of product, sales channel and region.

On the basis of type of products: · Flexible Packaging · Plastic Containers · Glass Containers · Caps/Closures · On the basis of drug type: · Autacoids & Related Drugs · Contraceptives · Hormone Replacement · Cardiovascular Medicines · Cancer Therapies · Others · On the basis of drug form: · Oral · Injectable

Regional Outlook Based on the geographies, global Pharmaceutical Contract packaging market is segmented into five key regions -- North America, Latin America, Europe, APAC, and Middle East & Africa. Among the aforementioned regions, North America leads in Contract pharmaceutical packaging owing to the reason North America has been global leader in drug manufacturing for various diseases. Strong R&D and the presence of key global players in pharmaceutical drugs manufacturing in North America is bolstering the growth of contract pharmaceutical packaging.

And it can be expected that contract pharmaceutical packaging market will continue to grow over the forecast period. Next to North America, APEJ is believed to be the key market for contract pharmaceutical packaging. Countries such as India, China etc. have been a booming market for pharmaceuticals. Pharmaceutical drugs ranging from antibiotic, allopathic and alternative are on high demand from users from APEJ countries. The growth of pharmaceutical companies in APEJ region will boost the market of contract pharmaceutical packaging as most of these companies doesn’t engage itself in packaging of medicine. Western Europe countries such as Germany, France and UK are also moving with a decent pace towards contract pharmaceutical packaging in order to cut down additional operational expenses of packaging for pharmaceutical companies.

Eastern Europe is also significantly growing in contract pharmaceutical packaging market.

MEA & Latin America on the other hand haven’t seen much of contract pharmaceutical packaging market but we can stay optimistic about the growth of contract pharmaceutical packaging market in these region as well. Japan has been a significant country when it comes to contract pharmaceutical packaging market, the country has been witnessing growth in contract pharmaceutical packaging industry.

Source: Future Market Insights

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

55

REPORT PHARMACEUTICALS EXCIPIENTS

ADOPTION OF

MODERN TECHNOLOGY TO DRIVE MARKET

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

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pharmaceutical excipient, also referred as bulking agent, filler or diluent, is a natural or synthetic substance formulated with the active ingredient of a medication, included in a pharmaceutical dosage form to aid the manufacturing process, to protect, support or enhance stability, or for bioavailability or patient acceptability. They are also helpful in product identification and enhance the overall safety or functionality of the product during storage or use.

Thousands of different excipients are used in medicines and make up, on average, about 90 percent of each product. They represent a market value accounting about 0.5 percent of the total pharmaceutical market according to industry experts.

The growth of the global market of pharmaceutical excipients is driven by the factors such as growing demand of functional excipients, increasing demand of generics and emergence of new excipients in the market.

Segmentation on basis of functionality: Excipients can be classified into 7 categories on the basis of the kind of function they perform: diluents, binders, disintegrants, glidants, lubricants, tablet coating & films and coloring agents. Diluents, which include sugar compounds such as lactose, dextrin, glucose, sucrose, sorbitol etc and inorganic compounds such as silicates, salts of calcium & magnesium, sodium chloride etc, are used for providing bulk and enables accurate dosing of potent ingredients.

Binders are mainly natural or synthetic polymers such as starch, sugar alcohols and cellulose derivatives which are used to bind the tablet ingredients together to give form and mechanical strength.

Disintegrants aids dispersion of the tablets in the gastrointestinal tract, releasing the active ingredient along with increasing the surface area for dissolution.

Glidants like colloidal anhydrous silicon, are used in reducing the friction and adhesion between particles and improves the flow of powders during tablet manufacturing.

Colouring agents are mainly synthetic dyes used to improve patient acceptability, aid identification and prevent counterfeiting.

Segmentation on basis of regions: Global market of pharmaceutical excipients is sub-segmented into seven key regions - North

America, Latin America, East Europe, West Europe, Asia Pacific excluding japan and Middle East & Africa.

Developed regions like North America and Europe are expected to experience a slow growth, due to already established excipients market, during the forecast period while the emerging market like Asia-Pacific is expected to record a strong growth during the same period owing to the availability of cheap labour, skills in abundance and comparatively lower cost of the raw materials.

Countries like Brazil, India and China are expected to be the major contributors in the growth of these emerging markets mainly due to the rising per capita income and increase in the number of companies from the developed regions willing to outsource their excipients manufacturing activities due to low manufacturing and labour costs in these regions.

Drivers and Restraints The global pharmaceutical excipients market is expected to grow at a healthy CAGR during the forecast period due to increasing utilization of parenteral products owing to rise in the global burden of chronic and lifestyle diseases and heavy investments by the pharmaceutical industry on the development of biologics.

Additionally, adoption of modern science like nanotechnology to impart innovative functions to the excipients used for target specific functionality of the active ingredients, resulting in reduced drug toxicity, a major challenge faced by the pharmaceutical industry, is also propelling the global market during the forecast period.

The product demand is increasing in the emerging markets like Asia-Pacific and Latin America, therefore proper expansion planning, focus on various R&D and innovations to launch new products would be a great opportunity.

The growth of the market is hampered to a certain extent by the factors like declining investments in R&D by excipients producers, and increasing regulatory requirements leading to scarcity of US FDA approved manufacturing sites.

Key Players Major players in the global market of pharmaceutical excipients are BASF (Germany) and Ashland Inc (US) which dominate the market share with their diversified product portfolio and aggressive sales strategies.

Source: Future Market Insights

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

57

ACADEMIC R&D NEW METHOD TO MAKE CANCER,

HIV TREATMENT DRUGS

Supplies of a promising drug for cancer, HIV and possibly other diseases is dwindling, and scientists have struggled to extract more from the marine creatures who produce it. Now, chemists have a synthetic solution.

A

drug isolated from a marine pest holds promise for treating some of the world’s nastiest diseases, and researchers would love to find out just how effective it is – if only they could get their hands on more.

Now, Stanford researchers have found a simpler and more efficient way to make this increasingly in-demand compound in the lab, they reported in the journal Science.

From three elephants to a salt shaker Like many other naturally occurring chemicals put into service as pharmaceuticals, bryostatin was discovered following what was essentially a fishing expedition.

The story of bryostatin itself began in 1968, when a marine biologist working in the Gulf of Mexico collected a plethora of marine organisms and sent them to the National Cancer Institute for analysis.

One of those organisms, Bugula neritina, a pest best known for fouling up marine environments, showed some promise as an anti-cancer agent. A decade and a half later, researchers reported the structure of the active ingredient, which they dubbed bryostatin 1 after the animal’s common name, brown bryozoan.

Unfortunately, bryostatin 1 is very hard to come by. When NCI scientists went back and swept up 14 tons of B. neritina, they managed to extract just 18 grams of bryostatin.

“It’s basically three elephants going down to a salt shaker,” said principal investigator, Paul Wender, a professor of chemistry and member of Stanford ChEM-H. Worse, subsequent studies showed that B. neritina produces bryostatin only in depths greater than about 10 feet and in warmer seas closer to the equator, and only during certain times of the year. And while there was a way to synthesize bryostatin in the lab, it took 57 steps and was not very efficient.

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Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

Improving on nature Wender and his group have been working with bryostatin analogs – chemicals inspired by bryostatin.

“Ordinarily, we’re in the business of making chemicals that are better than the natural products” such as bryostatin, Wender said.

Their new synthetic supply will be enough to continue ongoing trials testing its effectiveness as a cancer immunotherapy and for treating Alzheimer’s disease and HIV, for which any further supply was until now uncertain.

Dusting off the lab coat After decades of experience with bryostatin analogs and two years of concerted effort, the lab came up with a much shorter, 29step process and a yield of 4.8 percent, tens of thousands of times more efficient than extracting bryostatin from B. neritina and substantially simpler and more efficient than the previous synthetic approach.

The team members have now produced over 2 grams of bryostatin 1, and once production is scaled up, Wender said, they

expect manufacturers could produce about 20 grams per year, enough to cover clinical and research needs. That is a bit more than was ever extracted from B. neritina and enough to treat about 20,000 cancer patients or 40,000 Alzheimer’s patients.

The results could also be a boon for HIV/ AIDS research. In late September, the team reported that a bryostatin 1 analog could help wake latent HIV-infected cells, making them more susceptible to attack

by HIV drugs or the immune system. “We have an opportunity to start in earnest a clinical conversation about eradicating HIV/AIDS,” Wender said.

Wender is the Francis W. Bergstrom Professor of Chemistry and a member of Stanford Bio-X and the Stanford Cancer Institute. Additional Stanford authors include Clayton Hardman, Stephen Ho, Matthew Jeffreys, Jana Maclaren, Ryan Quiroz, Steven Ryckbosch, Akira Shimizu, Jack Sloane and Matthew Stevens. The research was funded by the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute.

LIGHT-ACTIVATED NANOPARTICLES CAN

SUPERCHARGE CURRENT ANTIBIOTICS

To fight superbugs, researchers engineer a one-two knockout punch

L

ight-activated nanoparticles, also known as quantum dots, can provide a crucial boost in effectiveness for antibiotic treatments used to combat drug-resistant superbugs such as E. coli and Salmonella, new CU Boulder research shows. Multidrug resistant pathogens, which evolve their defenses faster than new antibiotic treatments can be developed to treat them, cost the United States an estimated $20 billion in direct healthcare costs and an additional $35 billion in lost productivity in 2013. CU Boulder researchers, however, were able to re-potentiate existing antibiotics for certain clinical isolate infections by introducing nano-engineered quantum dots, which can be deployed selectively and activated or de-activated using specific wavelengths of light. Rather than attacking the infecting bacteria conventionally, the dots release superoxide, a chemical species that interferes with the bacteria’s metabolic and cellular processes, triggering a fight response that makes it more susceptible to the original antibiotic.

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

“We’ve developed a one-two knockout punch,” said Prashant Nagpal, an assistant professor in CU Boulder’s Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering (CHBE) and the co-lead author of the study. “The bacteria’s natural fight reaction (to the dots) actually leaves it more vulnerable.”

The findings, which were published in the journal Science Advances, show that the dots reduced the effective antibiotic resistance of the clinical isolate infections by a factor of 1,000 without producing adverse side effects.

“We are thinking more like the bug,” said Anushree Chatterjee, an assistant professor in CHBE and the co-lead author of the study. “This is a novel strategy that plays against the infection’s normal strength and catalyzes the antibiotic instead.”

While other previous antibiotic treatments have proven too indiscriminate in their attack, the quantum dots have the advantage of being able to work selectively

on an intracellular level. Salmonella, for example, can grow and reproduce inside host cells. The dots, however, are small enough to slip inside and help clear the infection from within.

Overall, Chatterjee said, the most important advantage of the quantum dot technology is that it offers clinicians an adaptable multifaceted approach to fighting infections that are already straining the limits of current treatments.

Going forward, the researchers envision quantum dots as a kind of platform technology that can be scaled and modified to combat a wide range of infections and potentially expand to other therapeutic applications.

Co-authors of the new study include Colleen Courtney, Max Levy, Samuel Goodman, Pallavi Bhusal of CHBE; Corrella Detweiler and Toni Nagy of the Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology; and Nancy Madinger of CU Denver’s Division of Infectious Diseases.

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ACADEMIC R&D TEST TO SPEEDEN ANTIBIOTIC TREATMENT,

COMBAT DRUG RESISTANCE

NIST physicist Ward Johnson observes signals generated by bacteria coating quartz crystals, a novel method of sensing whether an antibiotic kills the bacteria. The new NIST technique senses mechanical fluctuations of bacterial cells and any changes induced by an antibiotic. With further development, the technique could hasten the identification of effective medical treatments in clinical settings and drug development.

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esearchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have demonstrated a potential new tactic for rapidly determining whether an antibiotic combats a given infection, thus hastening effective medical treatment and limiting the development of drug-resistant bacteria. Their method can quickly sense mechanical fluctuations of bacterial cells and any changes induced by an antibiotic.

Described in Scientific Reports, NIST’s prototype sensor provides results in less than an hour, much faster than conventional antimicrobial tests, which typically require days to grow colonies of bacterial cells. Delayed results from conventional tests allow dangerous infections to progress before effective treatments can be found and provides a time window for bacteria to develop drug resistance.

Improperly prescribed antibiotics and antibiotic-resistant bacteria pose serious threats to public health. At least 2 million illnesses and 23,000 deaths are attributed to antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections in the United States each year, according to a 2013 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

One solution may be the new NIST sensing approach, based on a quartz-crystal resonator whose vibrations vary in measurable ways when particles on the surface change. The method, which involves bacterial cells adhered to a resonator, represents a new way of using these supersensitive crystals, which NIST researchers previously demonstrated for applications such as measuring carbon nanotube purity.

The new NIST technique senses the mechanical motion of microbes and their response to antibiotics. Other researchers previously

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found that some bacterial motion becomes weaker in the presence of some antibiotics, but until now such changes have been detected only with microscale sensors and generally in motile bacteria. The NIST method may be more useful in clinical settings because it collects electronic data cost-effectively and, since it senses large bacterial colonies, can be macroscopic and robust.

The sensor is piezoelectric, which means its dimensions change when exposed to an electric field. Proof of concept tests at NIST used two quartz-crystal resonators coated with several million bacterial cells. One resonator was used to test the effect of an antibiotic on the cells, while the second resonator was used as a control without the antibiotic.

The ultra-sensitive approach enabled detection of cell-generated frequency fluctuations at a level of less than one part in 10 billion.

The experiments showed that the amount of frequency noise was correlated with the density of living bacterial cells. The researchers concluded that the detected cell-generated frequency fluctuations arise from vibrations of cell walls.

NIST researchers sensed the response of Escherichia coli (E. coli) to two antibiotics, polymyxin B (PMB) and ampicillin. Cellgenerated frequency noise dropped close to zero within 7 minutes after the introduction of PMB. Frequency noise began decreasing within 15 minutes of adding ampicillin and then dropped more rapidly as cells broke apart and died. These time scales reflect the normal speeds at which these antibiotics work.

After the sensor measurements, the effectiveness of the antibiotics was confirmed by growth of colonies from the remaining bacteria.

Both antibiotics greatly reduced the numbers of live cells.

ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMIST FLASHES

WARNING LIGHT ON NEW NANOPARTICLE

A schematic diagram illustrating the mechanisms of BP toxicity, which include disruption of cell membrane integrity related to layered BP particle size, plus concentration- and cell-type-dependent cytotoxicity and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are among the most potent cell-damaging agents known.

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hen environmental and soil chemist Baoshan Xing at the University of Massachusetts Amherst began reading in 2014 that a new, two-dimensional material known as layered black phosphorous (BP) was gaining the attention of biomedical researchers for use in drug delivery systems and tumour photothermal therapy, he was both intrigued and concerned.

“As agricultural scientists, we are very familiar with phosphorous but I had never heard of two-dimensional black phosphorous. So we read all the nice papers about black phosphorous, and then, as environmental chemists, we started asking about nanoparticle toxicity. You have to be careful where you put such materials in the human body,” he noted.

In a cover story of the journal, Small, his former postdoctoral fellow, Qing Zhao, currently a professor at the Institute of Applied Ecology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Xing reported toxicity test results for different thicknesses of layered BP in three cell lines. Briefly, they found disruption of cell membrane integrity related to layered BP particle size, plus concentration- and cell-type-dependent cytotoxicity.

Xing said, “We are among the first ones to work with this material, particularly in

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

regard to its environmental implications.”

He and colleagues urge that “an in-depth understanding of BP’s cytotoxicity is of utmost importance” to provide useful data for risk evaluation and safe biomedical applications.

The researchers acknowledge that the new material, which is collected as thin samples from phosphorous crystals by a technique known as exfoliating, that is, shaving off layers of different thicknesses, does have “unique optical and electrical properties,” which might make it “a promising candidate for an efficient drug delivery vehicle and photothermal/photodynamic therapy in treating a variety of cancers.”

reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS are among the most potent cell-damaging agents known. Layered BP also disrupts cell membrane integrity in a particle-sizedependent manner. “The larger the BP is, less membrane integrity will be retained,” they note.

Further, they say the IC50 values of layered BP can differ by dozens of times depending on particle size and cell type. IC50 values refer to a measure of how effective a material is in inhibiting a specific biological function. Xing and colleagues urged that “special attention should be paid to the size of layered BP and the types of target cell lines for its application in biomedical field.”

Zhao, Xing and their colleagues point out that studies of layered BP toxicity conducted to date have used viability reagents, which can interfere with cytotoxicity results.

By contrast, they have used a label-free, real-time cell analysis (RTCA) technique that does not need any fluorescent or colorimetric viability reagents.

They added, “Further study is undoubtedly necessary to explore the cytotoxicity mechanisms in depth,” and that “given the results from our present study, the mechanisms of BP’s cytotoxicity are strikingly complicated and have significant implications for the risk evaluation and safe biomedical applications of BP.”

Assaying layered BP toxicity in three cell types, mouse fibroblast cells (NIH 3T3), human colonic epithelial cells (HCoEpiC) and human embryonic kidney cells (293T), the UMass Amherst and Chinese research team found that layered BP’s cytotoxicity is based on the fact that it generates

They plan to follow up with further experiments to test their hypothesis that layered BP, with its unusual electrical properties, might prove useful in removing both positively and negatively charged chemicals and organic contaminants from water.

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ACADEMIC SPEAK DRUG DEVELOPMENT

FINDING A NEW WAY OF

DRUG DEVELOPMENT

Uttam Tambar talks about his research on streamlining the synthesis of pharmaceutical drugs by making internal alkenes.

Tambar is an associate professor at the W. W. Caruth, Jr. Scholar in Biomedical Research, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas.

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Research insight on speedy drug development.

For many years, chemists have sought to develop new reactions for the direct conversion of inexpensive feedstock hydrocarbons into valuable materials such as pharmaceuticals. However, internal alkenes, which are one of the most abundant classes of hydrocarbons, contain many carbon-hydrogen bonds. The selective transformation of one carbon-hydrogen bond into a new bond is a significant challenge, resulting in difficult to separate mixtures of compounds. If the goal is to synthesize a pharmaceutical drug from a hydrocarbon starting material, the indiscriminate transformation of multiple carbon-hydrogen bond would render the chemical process useless, because we would generate potentially dangerous side products in addition to the desired product.

Our group has developed a method for the direct conversion of a variety of double bond-containing internal alkenes into multifunctional intermediates through the implementation of a chiral catalyst and a unique oxidant. These multifunctional compounds, which are obtained in high purity, are readily transformed into an assortment of molecules that will streamline the synthesis of future pharmaceutical drugs.

New chemical reaction that accelerate drug development.

Our group has developed a new reaction that selectively oxidizes internal alkenes. The products of this reaction are useful building blocks that can accelerate the drug development process.

Applications of these molecules.

We are now able to use internal alkenes as substrates for enantioselective allylic oxidation. Alkenes in general are ideal starting points for drug production, because they are inexpensive and abundant. Internal alkenes in particular are the most common class of alkenes found among organic substrates. But historically they have also been the most challenging class of unsaturated hydrocarbons to be used as substrates for enantioselective allylic oxidation.

Insight into chiral catalyst used in the research.

In our research, we utilize an antimony-BINOL complex as the chiral catalyst. Pioneered by Corey and co-workers, the complexation of SbCl5 and BINOL results in the formation of a Lewis acid assisted Brønsted acid, in which the protons of BINOL are rendered more acidic due to coordination with SbCl5. In our system, we believe the oxidant is activated by the SbCl5-BINOL complex through a LUMO lowering effect.

Bringing a change in the pharmaceutical industry.

We believe our research could streamline the synthesis of pharmaceutical drugs by making internal alkenes, which are the most common class of alkenes found among organic substrates, viable starting points for drug production.

Comparing with other ongoing researches in this area.

Allylic C–H oxidation of alkenes for the production of valuable pharmaceutical agents is most useful when the products are

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

synthesized with significant chemo-, regio- and stereocontrol.

Traditional strategies have olefin utilized tethered directing groups to control the position of allylic oxidation. We developed a unique and general approach that relies on the nature of the external oxidant to impart regiocontrol, which has enabled simple and complex alkenes to be used as substrates.

Unlike terminal alkenes, which only contain a single set of enantiotopic allylic protons, internal alkenes possess two sets of protons on either side of the olefin moiety, thereby posing the additional challenge of regioselectivity for unsymmetrical olefins (Fig. 1B). Furthermore, when the resulting product is an internal alkene, the issue of E/Z selectivity subsists. The inability to control indiscriminate C–H functionalization of electronically and sterically similar allylic protons, therefore, has the potential to produce a mixture of regio-, diastereo-, and enantiomeric isomers that are difficult to separate via preparative methods.

Commercializing the research.

We have begun to talk to pharma companies who are interested in implementing our research into their discovery platforms.

We have also initiated discussions with two chemical vendors to commercialize our technology.

Plans for future research.

We are interested in exploring useful transformations of the products that we can generate with our allylic oxidation technology.

We are also interested in exploring in the utility of the allylic oxidation method in more functionalized molecular settings, which will enable the synthesis of complex target molecules. We also hope to also generalize this mode of catalysis to other unprecedented reactions of alkenes.

Challenges faced in carrying out the research.

It was challenging for us to find a general solution to selectively functionalize internal alkenes. Unlike terminal alkenes, which only contain a single set of enantiotopic allylic protons, internal alkenes possess two sets of protons on either side of the olefin moiety, which presents the additional challenge of regioselectivity for unsymmetrical alkenes. In addition, since the resulting product is also an internal alkene, there is an issue of E/Z olefin selectivity in the product. The inability to control C–H functionalization of electronically and sterically similar allylic protons has the potential to produce a mixture of regio-, diastereo-, and enantiomeric isomers that are difficult to separate via preparative methods.

Other ways to achieve speedy drug development.

Synthetic chemists have always been enamored by the prospect of selectively altering a single C–H bond in any three-dimensional molecule without affecting other energetically similar C–H bonds. While enzymes have evolved to perform these selective transformations in nature, the site-selective and stereoselective functionalization of C–H bonds with synthetic reagents and catalysts remains a Holy Grail in organic chemistry. A general solution to this problem would provide more efficient and practical strategies for designing and manipulating small molecules, which would enable speedy drug development.

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R&D YOUNG TURKS

SOCIETY FOR SCIENCE & THE PUBLIC

Conductivity of Doped Polypyrrole Films Synthesized

by Electropolymerization

Sedra Khan & Vijay Shah

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are earth metals are useful in a wide range of electronic devices, but mining and purification are becoming more expensive and lead to wide-scale contamination. The synthesis of alternative materials for organic electronics rely on heavy metal catalysts, which can be highly toxic to the environment.

Electropolymerization provides a green pathway for metal-free organic conductive polymer films. This investigation aims to maximize the conductivity of polypyrrole (Ppy).

Electropolymerization of pyrrole into Ppy was done with various anionic, cationic,

and inorganic dopants. The conductivities of these films were measured using a modified four-point conductivity circuit from Seng et al, J. Chem. Educ. The experiments revealed several design criteria for dopants that maximize Ppy conductivity. Anionic dopants with sulfonate/sulfate vs carboxylate groups, and longer alkyl chains, created more conductive films.

Moreover, presence of reducing agents (eg iodide ions, ascorbate ions etc) have been observed to interfere with electropolymerization. Films with darker colours were generally more conductive

than those with lighter colours. “World demand for rare earth elements was estimated at 136,000 tonnes per year, with global production around 133,600 tonnes,” and the disparity between demand and supply grows annually. With the rocketing expansion of electronic technology, an environmentally-friendly alternative that can be readily produced from safer, cheaper resources is more necessary than ever. These results may lead to designing new dopant molecules that exhibit added functionalities, and clarify how organic conductive polymers work for optimization in practical applications.

© Society for Science & the Public

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JOBS Lead Scientist Company: Huntsman Date Posted: 03 October Country: India City: Mumbai

Chemist Company: AkzoNobel Date Posted: 04 October Country: US City: Houston

Jr Executive - QC

Company: Pfizer Date Posted: 08 October Country: India City: Aurangabad

Job Description: The candidate should have knowledge of polymer chemistry, surfactants and formulation chemistry to address customer complaints and market dynamics, expertise in process development and technology transfer from lab to plant scale.

Job Description: The Chemist finds and resolves sources of quality issues through the use of tools, procedures and equipment, to ensure that the products are being delivered according to the right product quality, and deploys ALPS (Lean) Quality Management with high priority.

Job Description: Jr. executive should maintain laboratory instruments to ensure proper working order and troubleshoot malfunctions when needed and should be well experienced about chromatographic analysis (HPLC & GC).

Process Engineer Company: National Industrialization Company (Tasnee) Date Posted: 10 October Country: Australia City: Bunbury

Assistant Plant Manager Company: Evonik Date Posted: 10 October Country: Singapore City: Jurong Island

Job Description: The process engineer contributes technical support to achieve process and cost improvements to ensure the on-going success of the business, whilst maintaining a safe working environment.

Job Description: The Assistant Plant Manager supports the Plant Manager in all aspects of a continuous process operation to meet production goals safely and efficiently in accordance with company policies and applicable government regulations.

The Assistant Plant Manager acts as the deputy to the Plant Manager.

Research and Development Internship Company: The Dow Chemical Company Date Posted: 11 October Country: India City: Mumbai

Laboratory Manager Polysilazane Company: Merck Date Posted: 11 October Country: Germany City: Darmstadt

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Job Description: : The company is looking for an ambitious student (m/f) supporting the business. The person should be interested in doing an internship on developing failure criteria for multilayer polymeric films subjected to biaxial loading.

Job Description: The person will lead a team of 3-5 employees and be responsible for the development of new polysilazane formulations for coating applications. The lab manager tasks include the synthesis, application and testing of the finished formulations as well as the preparation of application-relevant procedure instructions for customers.

PhD, Research Scientist, Polymer Synthesis Company: Eastman Chemical Company Date Posted: 12 October Country: US City: Kingsport

Job Description: This position will be part of new product line and business being built within Eastman and the person will be working with a high performance, crossfunctional team with people from R&D, manufacturing and the business. The successful applicant is expected to conceive, design and execute experimental programmes to make new resins and to develop structure-property relations between composition and application.

Lab Supervisor Company: BP Plc Date Posted: 13 October Country: China City: Taicang

Job Description:The Lab Supervisor main role is to assist Taicang plant QC Manger to ensure that the plant laboratory process is in line with the internal and external, HSSE, quality standards, and the streamline/fusion process. Lead laboratory team which consists of chemist/analyst/third party technicians to deliver quality control for raw material incoming, production process and finish goods released by professional and compliance way.

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

PRODUCTS

Tablets for Blister Packs USP Moisture Testing C lariant’s new tablets have been developed for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical packagers who are conducting moisture-permeation testing of unit-dose blister packaging as prescribed in USP. The Tri-Sorb tablets are designed for placement into blister headspaces, either singly or in multiples, in lieu of the actual drug product, where they are used to test and verify the moisture vapour transmission rate, or MTVR, of blister packaging according to the USP standard. The tablets are packaged in quantities suitable for laboratory testing applications, with 320-350 tablets, depending on tablet size, in each re-sealable barrier pouch. To ensure product integrity and moisture adsorption capacity, the tablets repacked directly and not by a third party. Tri-Sorb tablets are available in three sizes: 0.125g, 0.25g and 0.37g.

Contact: Clariant International Ltd Rothausstrasse 61, CH 4132 Muttenz 1, Switzerland Tel:+41 61 469 51 11 Email:info@clariant.com Web:https://www.clariant.com

Chromatography Resins to enhance Plasma-Derived Immunoglobulin M

erck, a leading science and technology company launched Eshmuno® P anti-A and Eshmuno® P anti-B affinity chromatography resins specifically designed to remove anti-A and anti-B isoagglutinin antibodies during the manufacturing of plasma-derived immunoglobulin (Ig) therapies. Trace amounts of anti-A and anti-B antibodies in plasmaderived Ig can lead to serious and sometimes fatal hemolytic events in patients undergoing plasma-based treatment. Introduction of chromatographic steps using Eshmuno® P resins to specifically deplete anti-A and anti-B antibodies is expected to reduce patient risk for adverse medical events associated with plasma-derived Ig therapies. This enhanced patient safety is achieved without negatively impacting process economics by reusing the resins for at least 200 cycles, with acid or alkaline cleaning, without loss of performance.

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Contact: Merck KGaA Frankfurter Strabe 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany Tel.: +49 (0) 6151 72-0 Email: service@merckgroup.com Web: http://www.merckgroup.com

New High-Performance Sealant Resins for Flexible Packaging N OVA Chemicals Corporation has introduced three new highperformance sealant resins for multi-layer film structures.

VPsK914 is an ultra-durable, abuse-resistant resin for the most demanding packaging applications. A low seal initiation temperature combined with a broad sealing window enables worry-free packaging runs. This grade also offers triple the toughness of a typical PE sealant resin and more stiffness than a 20 percent plastomer blend, making it ideal for packaging sharp and heavy contents. In addition, high resin melt strength can enable up to a 20 percent increase in blown film line speeds vs. a typical Octene LLDPE. The resin’s creep performance, a critical attribute for heavy duty packaging that measures resistance to product deformation, is best-in-class of all PE heavy duty sack resins on the market today.

Contact: NOVA Chemicals Corporation 1000 Seventh Avenue, S.W., P.O. Box 2518, Calgary, Alberta T2P 5C6, Canada Tel: 403.750.3600 Email:public@novachem.com Web:http://www.novachem.com

New Antimicrobial Helps to Keep Pace with Meat Snack Trends C orbion launches the meat industry’s first clean-label antimicrobial that rivals potassium sorbate for mold inhibition, even in applications most vulnerable to mold. With consumer demand for meat snacks continuing its upward trajectory, marketers are introducing an increasing array of varieties and formats, including softer, high-moisture products. But those high-moisture meat snacks and pet treats are more susceptible to mold spoilage. It helps to control the Staphylococcus aureus outgrowth, and the traditional solution for dealing with that challenge - potassium sorbate - is turning off a growing number of label-conscious consumers. That is why Corbion has developed Verdad®Opti Powder XM10, a clean-label antimicrobial solution that is highly effective at inhibiting mold growth, in addition to providing pathogen protection and longer shelf life.

Contact: Corbion P.O. Box 349, 1000 AH Amsterdam, The Netherlands Tel:+31 20 590 6911 Email:communications@corbion.com Web:http://www.corbion.com

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

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EQUIPMENT THERMAL PROCESSING

THE ENERGY METER OF

A CHEMICAL PLANT

V Gokuldas, Managing Director, HRS Process Systems Ltd talks about the potential for thermal processing equipment which forms the back bone for all process industries.

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BY SHIVANI MODY Global trends for the thermal processing equipment.

Globally, thermal processing technology/ equipment related to chemical industry, has seen a marked change in design and construction, based on new process technology for chemicals manufacture.

Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers (STHE) and Plate Type Heat Exchanger (PHE) form the base of thermal processing in all industries. However, the design, material of construction and manufacturing processes has greatly evolved to give heat transfer products suitable for various applications in the chemical industry. We see a shift in thermal processing technology requirement with companies understanding the advantage of speciality materials for better adaptability and thermal efficiency.

Market potential in Asia Pacific and India.

There is huge potential for thermal processing equipment in Asia Pacific and Indian market. Thermal processing is the back bone for all process industries and we can categorise the requirement into – new project, expansion or capacity enhancement, application development or replacement requirement. There is also a special market for high effectivity, compact area thermal performance demand units for critical applications; ranging from manufacture of chemicals to research and development. The estimated market potential is over few million dollars in the region.

Sectors with increased demand for thermal processing equipment.

Chemical process industry and pharmaceutical industry have shown decent growth in these years, other than petrochemicals. We observe a strong growth in the chemical and agro-chemical sectors. Fertilizer sector has also made investment in technology upgrade. There is an increasing demand for thermal processing equipment in other sectors like oil and fats, power, steel etc.

Demands of chemical manufacturers for thermal processing equipment.

Chemical manufactures used to depend on equipment manufacturers/fabricators to design their thermal processing equipment. However, in the past decades, the trend is to work with companies like HRS, who can design thermal processing equipment based on various process plant requirements. Also be able to evaluate fluctuating process conditions impact on thermal processing equipment and design a suitable solution. The chemical manufacturers require equipment, which

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

is compatible with their process in terms of materials and also can look at variation in process conditions. The thermal processing equipment is the energy meter for the chemical manufacturer and hence they are very concerned about efficiency and effectivity. The chemical industry has moved from fabricator to technology provider like HRS for thermal processing equipment.

Comparing thermal processing equipment requirement in developed and emerging markets.

In today’s scenario, there is not much difference between the requirement of developed versus emerging markets for thermal process technology / equipment for chemical industry. This is because most of the chemical industry has moved from the developed to the emerging markets, where basic chemicals are manufactured.

The emerging market has access to new technology and hence they need the latest technology and equipment to be able to supply globally.

IIoT in thermal processing equipment industry.

The thermal processing equipment is the energy meter of a chemical plant. Thus understanding its health and performance on real time basis is critical for many industries and processes. With increasing plant capacity and demand for higher reliability factor, automation solution and gathering of real time data has become essential. Industry 4.0 with a focus on Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) and automation solutions is essential for all businesses and the thermal processing equipment industry needs to understand and built units to satisfy this demand.

Company’s Asia Pacific and India business.

HRS PSL India is part of HRS group, with head quarter in UK. We have group companies in UK, Spain, USA, Malaysia and Australia. HRS PSL operates in India and Asia pacific regions. We are a thermal processing equipment and technology supplier and have supplied units for various applications across the process industry. Our Ecoflux* range of corrugated tube heat exchanger has been spear heading revolution in the thermal processing equipment used by the chemical industry. Ecoflux* uses corrugated tubes instead of smooth tubes. Corrugation induces turbulence in the medium there by enhancing the over heat transfer coefficient with reduced fouling. The units are compact as compared to smooth tube heat exchanger. Our other products include plate type heat exchanger, shell & tube heat exchanger and heat exchanger based systems.

Our group companies in Malaysia and Australia are taking care of Asia Pacific region directly supported by Indian operations of the group. Our sales turnover for heat exchangers and food processing systems is over Rs. 800 million and aim to be a Rs 1 billion company in the very near future.

Focus on R&D and innovation globally.

HRS Group has common R&D facility in Murcia, Spain; where application engineering and product development is focused by a set of highly trained technologists. Our R&D is focused on providing solutions to customers on their problems and how our products can be engineered to suit their applications. Our scrap surface heat exchangers (UNICUS®) has been developed to handle difficult fluids with ease thereby ensuring proper product quality with minimal loses. This product is used across the industry for fouling and crystallising application other than viscous products with particulates.

Challenges faced in the thermal processing equipment industry.

A common challenge faced in the thermal processing industry is non-availability of material, in short time, for various chemical sector applications. The chemical industry today requires thermal processing equipment in stainless steel and exotic material like hastelloy, inconel, monel, titanium, duplex, tantalum and similar.

The availability of these materials is limited and hence their delivery times are longer.

The industry must also look at incremental investment for energy efficiency and sustainability. They need to evaluate total cost of ownership over a period of time and ascertain benefits of upgrading to better technology. Industry must also understand that the thermal processing equipment is the major source for energy consumption and thus a well designed thermal processing equipment will be always beneficial for the industry.

Improving energy efficiency and sustainability for chemical manufacturers.

HRS products/solutions are designed understanding customer requirement as well as variations or future processing requirement. We evaluate the current process and the equipment being used by the customer and the problems faced, to arrive at right solution for the process keeping in mind energy efficiency required for the process. We have thermal design capability whereby we can simulate the process conditions and understand critical parameters, to inform customers on these to enhance energy efficiency.

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EQUIPMENT VALVES

ETCHING GROWTH

THROUGH INNOVATION

Ravi Doshi, Director (Marketing), Oswal Industries Limited discusses at length about the valves industry and its potential in the global market.

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BY DEBARATI DAS Trends and development in the valves industry.

Typically, advances in industrial valve technology occur at a slower, more evolutionary pace than in more technology-intensive industries. Because of this, valve producers usually alter minor parameters, such as changing the materials of construction (for example, using plastics instead of metals) or tweaking the design (developing, for instance, high performance trunnion mounted ball valve, top entry valves with better features than standard ball valves). Utilizing different materials and altering valve design can help prevent unwanted rejections, such as valve corrosion or freezing (in the case of metal valves, or those that house very lowtemperature liquids and gases).

Overall, there have been very few innovative technical improvements to industrial valves during the past 10 years.

Sectors with potential for the valves industry.

Currently, the major growth of valves industries is from LNG, FPSO, Gas pipeline, infrastructure, water industry & power sectors. Demand for automatic valve types has been accelerating at a quicker pace in recent years including Oil & Gas. India has become the fourth-largest Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) importer after Japan, South Korea and China, and accounts for 5.8 per cent of the total global trade in 2016. Hence, emerging markets of potential are LNG-India, infrastructure, cross country pipeline & natural gas pipeline.

Customer demands for the valves industry.

Usually demands remain the same for gate, globe, check & ball valves. It is further upgraded with automation, exotic material requirement & special application, such as cryogenic, fugitive emission, oxygen services etc. We have already developed & are supplying such demands.

lower their prices which cause great fall in quality & standardization of reputed valve manufacturers. Localization also reflects as a major drop for supplying of valve in other countries.

However we supply from Mexico to Russia & from Europe to MENA and last year 85 percent of our company business came from export.

Valves business overview for the company.

Oswal Industries Ltd is a leading industrial valves manufacturing company of the country. We are India’s largest single location integrated valves manufacturing facility spread over 100,000 square meters, having our own captive foundry. Our valve metallurgy includes carbon steel, stainless steel, alloy steel, duplex stainless steel & super duplex stainless steel & exotic alloy grades like hastelloy, inconel, etc.

Our product range includes Gate, Globe, Check and Ball valves Manual & Actuated in various size and pressure rating ranging from 2” - 72”and #150 to #2500 respectively.

Our in-house laboratory & testing facilities are supported with spectrometer, UTM, impact testing, pyrometer, hardness testing, micro structural analyzer, ultrasonic, magnetic particle inspection, dye penetration, radiography and pressure testing facilities, PMI, fire safe, cryogenic testing, helium leak detection, black light testing for oxygen service & cleaning.

Business in Asia Pacific region Over the last three decades, we have been executing major projects in various parts of Asia & Pacific regions and we are trying to build our presence in Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, South Korea & as well as in India.

We have a strong presence in Middle-East countries, South Korea and we are trying to expand our base with major end-users & EPC’s in Vietnam, New Zealand & various other South Asian countries.

Constraints in the valves market.

Product, process and business R&D and innovation.

In this industry, country of origin matters.

When end users/EPC are not using other country origin valves, the restraints come from other valve manufacturers who

Innovation typically falls into three categories: product, process and business model. New product development (NPD) is the most obvious and common area of

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

innovation, but process innovation is also important to industry. The third type is more profound and involves a fundamental change in an entire industry.

While there is still a long way to go for Indian manufacturing to transform itself through innovation, India as a destination for research and development (R&D) is well recognized. Due to the availability of low-cost, well-educated and highly skilled talent, in some sectors, the cost of R&D in India is one-third of that spent in developed countries in the West making India an attractive destination.

Addressing customer issues during operations and after sales services.

We have Oswal customer care department which look at all the Technical problems related to spares parts services. In case of any urgent after sales services, the spares parts are made available by Oswal as per design & standards spare parts list. For, after sales services, whenever possible it will be provided by our local representative and for specialized support services it is provided from Oswal Customer care department India, by sending our experienced Engineers on the site.

Our testing facility is recognized by the Government of India for its accordance to quality and processes. We have instilled a strong culture of quality and conformance to standards across all levels of our company & more than 45 tests are performed while executing the orders. After the assembly of the valves they are taken under Hydro testing to ensure the leakages & loses in valves are non-existent.

Materials and alloys used for manufacture of valves.

Our metallurgy includes stainless steel, alloy steel, duplex stainless steel & super duplex stainless steel & exotic alloy grades like hastelloy, inconel, etc.

As alloy steels contain alloying elements (eg. manganese, silicon, nickel, titanium, copper, chromium, and aluminum) in varying proportions in order to manipulate the steel’s properties, such as its hardenability, corrosion resistance, strength, formability, weld ability or ductile.

73

EQUIPMENT TRIPLE QUAD LC/MS

SIMPLER, FASTER WAY OF

ANALYSING WITH SMALLER FOOTPRINT Jim Yano, Vice President - Marketing, Mass Spectrometry Division, Agilent Technologies Inc (left) and Bharat Bhardwaj, Country Manager (India), Agilent India Pvt Ltd, talk about the need for smarter analytical tools that can match the pace and need of the industry. Their new product, Ultivo, encompasses the benefits of being much simpler, yet giving much faster and accurate analytical throughput.

74

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

BY SHIVANI MODY Product insight.

Agilent has introduced the newest member of its family of triple quadrupole liquid chromatography mass spectrometers (triple quad LC/MS) - the Ultivo triple quad. It is a transformative approach to LC/MS that integrates several hardware and software innovations designed to deliver even more improved business results for customers. Ultivo is optimized to address the food and environmental routine testing segments employing triple quad LC/MS systems for quantitative analyses. It delivers robust performance, superior uptime, and easier serviceability, in a footprint that is 70 percent smaller than previous instruments. Customers can now significantly increase their analytical throughput without having to increase the size of their existing laboratories.

Application benefits in emerging markets.

We have taken our thirty years of market and application knowledge to focus on designing a system, which makes it easier for the emerging markets. The emerging markets can take advantage of all that knowledge that exists in the core mature markets with our products.

We see that the developed markets want to come up to speed very quickly and leverage what’s been already done by the mature markets. They also want to come up to the speed at a lower cost and that is why we created a database. The developing markets will not have to spend money developing the methodology in the labs.

Further, in emerging countries, space is always a challenge. Catering to this requirement, we have reduced the size of the equipment from six feet to one and a half feet making it remarkably smaller yet having exceptional performance.

Customers will love to have a scalable instrument which can be accommodated within the space of a standard HPLC size.

Analysing a data mine.

One of the features in the platform is called ‘Quant My Way’ software which allows the customers, regardless of the market segment and location/geography, to create customer-user interface for specific business or laboratory workflows.

For example, a food lab can create a food workflow user interface for their applications. An environmental lab or a pharmaceutical lab can do the same. So, it really allows them to customize, make it easier to set up the analysis and more importantly to process the data which is a bottleneck in many labs. Quant My Way

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

applies to all of our end markets and you could simplify it for any workflow. We also have our software which is specifically directed at our pharmaceutical customer types to simplify the workflow for pharmaceutical laboratories.

Making automation easy.

We have seen many labs doing the work via a manual process. But this process is very easy to automate and the automated platform can be justified as we have the volumes for it. The process is as simple as transferring the manual prep to the automated prep.

Training required for automation process.

The amount of training required comes down to the skill set that the laboratory has. If the lab has a lot of skill and has already developed the manual process, the automation process is pretty straightforward. However, if the lab doesn’t have any prior experience we can help them train to prep their samples and automate the process.

Also, we always focus on making it easy for users. Most users use this software on a day to day basis and hence the idea is to make it as easy as possible. All our latest innovations largely focus towards the millennial generation so our products are convenient for the users, incorporating features such as touch screens & touch reading, connectivity to mobile phones for data updates etc. The product is a lot more robust than its predecessors.

Addressing challenges in food and pharma sectors.

The food, pharma and environmental segments are important markets for Agilent.

All of us would want to have safer, good quality food. The awareness has gone up among the general population. For that we need to have sensitive instruments, which will help detect the right level of pesticides, chemical composition, adulteration of any type and match it as per the regulatory requirements. The Indian government has been working aggressively towards this, with the food regulatory authorities coming up with new regulations on food safety similar to the rest of the world. But we need more advanced products and our equipment addresses this market. Ultivo’s integration with the Agilent MassHunter Software suite provides high-performance instrument monitoring, data acquisition, analysis, and reporting for currently regulated and emerging environmental contaminants and pollutants in our water supplies or food parameters. Also, Ultivo’s fine-tuning ensures rigorous

accuracy, with selectivity, sensitivity, and precision monitoring, to deliver specific identification and quantitation of a wide range of contaminants, helping keep our worldwide food supplies safe. Moreover, it is easy to use, smaller to operate, has all required features, lot more sensitive than the previous generation and suited to the needs in the country.

From pharmaceutical point of view, the challenges are more or less the same.

Lot of pharmaceutical companies are moving towards biopharma segments and they need more sensitive equipment.

Our equipment are moving towards that direction by helping pharmaceutical companies to do high throughput, multiple sample analysis much faster with more precision and accuracy.

Changing market dynamics.

We are seeing a reduction in the skill set of operators which puts a lot more pressure on developing the equipment and the software. The equipment needs to be easy to use, maintain and also have a simple user interface. Our software is much more graphical to make it easier to use in the lab.

The trend is to make it easier to use the instrumentation and software and this is something that we apply to our products.

Every year we have been coming up with new, innovative products and that’s because we spend a lot more in R&D. With such innovative products, we also have to provide the right level of service support.

For that, we have been gearing up our resources and have added more than thirtyfive percent more capacity to the service staff team.

Company’s global footprint.

Agilent is a global organization with manufacturing facilities across the world including Germany, US, Japan, Singapore, China and Malaysia. Many of our manufacturing sites are in Asia. Although we do not have a manufacturing plant in India, we have a global back office in India located in Manesar, Haryana with over a thousand employees who are supporting global Agilent offices.

For India, we really leverage the application and market knowledge. We have developed a platform in California, to help identify and develop applications specifically for the Indian market. Moreover, the Indian market is different, although there is a lot of overlap and similarities, there are also specific government regulatory issues due to which we have customize our solutions for these specific markets. We are putting in all the efforts to serve our customers in the best possible manner in the country.

75

EQUIPMENT New LC/MS triple quadrupole for improved business results

A

gilent Technologies Inc introduced the newest member of its family of triple quadrupole liquid chromatography mass spectrometers. The Ultivo triple quad is a transformative approach to LC/MS that integrates several hardware and software innovations designed to deliver even more improved business results for customers. Ultivo is optimized to address the food and environmental routine testing segments employing triple quad LC/MS systems for quantitative analyses. Ultivo delivers robust performance, superior uptime, and easier serviceability, in a footprint that is 70 percent smaller than previous instruments. Customers can now significantly increase their analytical throughput without having to increase the size of their existing laboratories. In addition to its trendsetting size, Ultivo provides reproducible, reliable assays that result in exceptional performance in complex matrices.

Contact: Agilent Technologies India Pvt Ltd CP-11 Sector 8, Technology Park, IMT Manesar, Haryana- 122051, India Tel: +91-124 4863000 Email: cag_india@agilent.com Web:http://www.agilent.com

Anchors/Gate type impellers for many applications

A

nchors/Gate type impellers are close-clearance impellers that fit the contour of the vessel. These impeller provide adequate mixing under the laminar flow conditions encountered in high viscosity applications for heat transfer. There are many applications that other type of impellers are integrated with the anchor. These impellers sweep the whole wall surface of the vessel and agitate most of the fluid batch through physical contact.

Anchor impellers are used for liquid viscosities between 5,000 and 50,000 cP. When reaction/mixing homogeneity is required, other type of impellers are recommended

Contact: FEDA, INC. B-37, Maruti Industrial Estate, Plot No 59/1/2/3, Phase-1, GIDC Vatva, Ahmedabad-382445, Gujarat, India Tel: +91-8866145400/+91-9324245818 E-mail : ashok.chaurasia@gmail.com Web:http://www.fedainc.com

New analyzer for GMP pharma manufacturing applications

T

he Picarro PI2114 gas concentration analyzer ensures ultra-low residual hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels to help avoid oxidation and safeguard drug stability in isolated GMP pharmaceutical manufacturing.

It can continuously measure hydrogen peroxide levels as low as 3.3 ppb. It includes built-in software to comply with 21 CFR Part 11 for clinical and commercial manufacturing. And it can be configured to automatically output measurement data in digital format or through optional analog outputs to a SCADA control system or data logging device. Patented Picarro cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) technology has no moving parts and incorporates wavelength monitoring. This provides long-term stability and reliability with infrequent calibration and maintenance.

Contact: Picarro Inc. 3105 Patrick Henry Drive, Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA Tel:+1-408-962-3900 Email:sales@picarro.com Web:www.picarro.com/pharma

New liquid ring pumps for demanding industrial process environments

A

tlas Copco has launched two new liquid ring vacuum pumps for use in wide range of industries including food & beverage processing, mining and minerals, petrochemicals, steel, cement, plastics, pulp and paper, textiles and pharmaceuticals. Capacities for liquid ring pumps typically range from 170 to 37,500 mÂł/h. Lower capacity units below 5500 mÂł/h are available as single-stage AWS models or two-stage AWD models pre-configured with direct-drive options in 50 and 60 Hz speeds. Single stage AWS pumps offer outstanding efficiency above 200 mbar (absolute), making them ideal for general process applications such as filtration and dewatering, and pump down or evacuation duties. Two synchronised pump chambers work in series to achieve high performance and improved efficiency on continuous process duties such as drying, degassing exhausting and solvent recovery.

76

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

Contact: Atlas Copco Compressors UK Tel: +44 (0) 800 181085 Swallowdale Lane, Email:compressor.sales@uk.atlascopco.com Hemel Hempstead, Web:www.atlascopco.co.uk/compressorsuk Herts, HP2 7EA, UK

Wireless toxic gas monitor for challenging remote locations

E

merson has introduced its first fully integrated monitor-The Rosemount™ 928 Wireless Gas Monitor which is a fully integrated WirelessHART™ toxic gas monitoring solution. The Rosemount 928 significantly improves safety in areas and applications that were previously considered to be too expensive and difficult to monitor due to remote or difficult-to-access locations, challenging topology, and other issues.

It integrates into a WirelessHART network, eliminating wiring and dramatically reducing installation, commissioning, and maintenance costs.

The Rosemount 628 is a “smart” sensor module, meaning that calibration information is stored within the sensor not the transmitter. This further enhances personnel safety by minimizing their time spent in potentially hazardous locations.

Contact: Emerson Process Management 6021 Innovation Blvd, Shakopee, Minnesota 55379, USA Ph: +1 800 999 9307 / 952 906 8888 Fax:+1 952 949 7001 Email: RFQ.RMD-RCC@ EmersonProcess.com Web: http://www.emerson.com

Introducing large line size coriolis mass flowmeters

K

ROHNE introduced new large line size Coriolis mass flowmeters: OPTIMASS 6400 DN150/ 6” and DN200/ 8” (back right to left), and OPTIMASS 2400 DN400/ 16” (front). Targeted at the oil & gas and petrochemical industries, typical applications for the new large line sizes include bulk hydrocarbon loading and bunkering, LNG/cryogenic or high temperature applications. They feature gas and liquid MID and OIML custody transfer approvals and compliance with API and AGA guidelines, SIL 2/3 functionality and NE 107 diagnostic functions. While OPTIMASS 6400 DN150/ 6” and DN200/ 8” share the dual bent tube design of their smaller sizes, the OPTIMASS 2400 DN400/ 16” is a completely new design: the well-known dual straight tube has been extended to a four straight tube design for flow rates up to 4,600 t/h / 169,021 lb/min, making it the highest capacity Coriolis flowmeter on the market

Contact: KROHNE Messtechnik GmbH Ludwig-Krohne-Str. 5, 47058 Duisburg, Germany Tel.: +49 203 301 0 Email:sales.de@krohne.com Web:https://krohne.com

New design enhanced pressure/vacuum pumps

G

ardner Denver Thomas released its new 2775 Series, an engineering design enhancement to its successful 2770 Series platform. These pumps are capable of either pressure or vacuum operation but excel at applications that require higher pressures at continuous operation. They are versatile enough for market applications ranging from cable drying to pharmaceutical processing equipment.

Contact: Gardner Denver Thomas GmbH Livry-Gargan-Str. 10, 82256 Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany Tel: +49 8141 2280 0 Email:thomas.de@gardnerdenver.com Web:https://www.gd-thomas.com

Compact FTIR spectrometers for varied applications

B

ruker has launched the new ALPHA II, the latest generation of the ALPHA series of compact FTIR spectrometers. The ALPHA II features fully-automated test routines for validation regarding operational qualification (OQ) and performance validation (PQ) as well as innovations in temperature-stabilized detector and high quality IR source technology.

It is equipped with an IR-source that utilizes Bruker’s CenterGlowTM technology guaranteeing a constantly high intensity and a life-time of at least 5 years. CenterGlowTM optimizes the location of the glowing area within the source to maximize the light flux. For regulated pharmaceutical laboratories the ALPHA II is prepared with fully-automated test routines for validation regarding operational qualification (OQ) and performance validation (PQ).

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

Contact: Bruker Optics Inc. 40 Manning Road, Billerica, MA 01821, USA Tel: +1 978 439-9899 Email: info.bopt.us@bruker.com Web:https://www.bruker.com

77

ADVERTISING INDEX Sharplex Filters (India) Pvt. Ltd. India Tel: +912269409850/60 E-Mail: sales@sharplexfilters.com www.sharplex.com

03

Kirloskar Brothers Limited

31

Xobber

51

India Tel: +91 (20) 24440770 Email: marketing@kbl.co.in www.kirloskarpumps.com

Kimberlite Chemicals (India) Pvt. Ltd. Front Inside India Tel: +91 80 42487300 Email: info@kimberliteindia.com www.kimberliteindia.com

India Tel: +91 80 42487301 Email: sales@xobber.com www.xobber.com

GLOSSARY PAGE NO

PAGE NO

Accenture 05

DSM 30

NOVA Chemicals Corporation

69

Agilent

74, 76

Eli Lilly and Company

50

Novartis International AG

50

AkzoNobel

01, 45

Emerson Process Management

77

Oswal Industries Limited

72

Pfizer Inc

50

Picarro Inc

76

Alexfert 05

Evonik Performance Materials GmbH

32

AMAI 09

Expanded Polymer Systems

05

Ames Laboratory

33

ExxonMobil

Archroma

15

FEDA

76

Ashland Inc

57

Fratelli Guzzini

14

10, 42, 43

Assocham 37

French National Agency for Medicines and Health 37

Atlas Copco Compressors

76

Future Market Insights41, 55, 57

Aurobindo Pharma Ltd

37

Gardner Denver Thomas GmbH77

Avantor 25

GEA group

53

Axalta Coating Systems

Goa Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association

37

Grand View Research Inc

50

11

BASF

10, 43, 50, 57

Bayer

10, 57

Haier 13

BKV Chelsea

07

Hanwha Chemicals

41

Boehringer Ingelheim

50

Hospira Inc

50

Bostik 08

HRS Process Systems

70

Bristol Myers Squibb

50

IFF 44

Bruker Optics Inc

77

Indian Solar Manufacturers’ Association

05

Cambrex Ferro Carbogen Amcis

50

Ineos Styrolution

14

Carbogen Amcis AG

50

PPG 12 Reliance Industries

07

Renault-Nissan 12 Reuters06 Roche Diagnostics

50

S K Biotek ltd

53

SAFC 50 Samsung SDI

41

Sanofi Aventis

50

Saudi Aramco

06

Scott Equipment Company

53

Shandong Ruyi Investment Holding

11

SICPA 05 Siemens AG

53

Sigma-Aldrich Corporation

50

Society for Science & the Public

64

Stanford 58

Invista 11

Statoil

10

Chemtrix 53

Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz

32

Sun Pharma

37

CiQUS 33

Kathmandu

15

Teva Pharmaceutical

50

Clariant

Korsch AG

53

Thyssenkrupp 08

KROHNE Messtechnik GmbH

77

Torrent Pharmaceuticals

07

Corbion 69

Kutch Chemicals

08

Total Polymers Europe

20

Corning Life Sciences

LG Chem

41

Transparency Market Research

53

Unichem Laboratories

07

University of Massachusetts Amherst

61

University of Sheffield

34

University of Texas

62

Volkswagen AG

05

White Tale Holdings

11

Continuus Pharmaceutical

78

PAGE NO

11, 26, 68 53 53

Covestro 13

Lonza 50

Covidien Plc

50

LPAC 35

CropLife Asia

05

Maruti Suzuki

CU Boulder

59

Merck

Dow India

47

National Institute of Standards and Technology

60

Dr Reddy’s

37

Nippon Shokubai

44

Chemical Today Magazine | November 2017

05 50, 68

November Issue

Sector Focus Chemicals Section Pharmaceutical

• Veterinary drugs • Plant & Animal Extract • Musculoskeletal System agents • Hormone drugs • Antianaphylaxis(antihistamines) and antidotes • Antiparasitics and antispirochete agents • Antibiotic and antimicrobial agents • Antineoplastics agents • Urinary system agents • Immunomodulator • Dermatological agents • Pharmacy Other • Electrolyte balance and dialysis agents • Disinfector and preservative • Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology agents •Gastrointestinal agents • Blood system agents • Cardiovascular agents • Auxiliaries and miscellaneous medicinal chemicals • Proton Pump Inhibitors • Nourishment • Pharmaceutical raw materials •Pharmaceutical intermediates

Bulk Drugs

•Bulk Drugs Intermediates •Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients •API Intermediates

Lab Chemicals

• Analytical Reagents •Laboratory Reagents • Staining Chemicals • Chemical Solvents • Buffer Chemicals • High Purity Solvents • Acids •Bases •Research Chemicals

Equipment Section Lab & Analytical Instruments

• Coolers • Evaporators • Freeze Dryers • Heaters • Lab Ovens • Power Supplies • Scales • Storage Cabinets • Vacuum Pumps • Analyzers • Infrared Analyzers • Near Infrared Analyzers • Microscopes •Raman Spectrometers •Remote Sensing •Spectrometers

December Issue

Sector Focus Chemicals Section: • Water Treatment • Silicones • Catalysts

Equipment Section: •

Chemical Process Equipment

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