Safic-Alcan to distribute Soleic degradable PU in Europe

Algenesis Labs has named Safic-Alcan as its European distribution partner for Soleic, the company’s fully biodegradable, plant-based polyurethane range. The agreement follows Algenesis’s recent win at the Center for the Polyurethanes Industry (CPI) Polyurethane Innovation Award, where Soleic was recognised for combining performance with end-of-life degradability.

Developed to match the durability of conventional PU materials while breaking down at end of life, Soleic is designed for use in applications such as footwear, apparel and consumer goods.

Algenesis said the deal with Safic-Alcan would make it easier for European manufacturers to integrate the material into products that meet corporate and regulatory sustainability targets.
Safic-Alcan has a long-established position in polyurethane and engineering thermoplastics markets, particularly in the footwear industry. The company operates sales and technical support teams across Europe, supported by local warehousing and logistics networks aimed at maintaining reliable supply and service.

“This partnership with Safic-Alcan is an exciting step towards making Soleic available to European brands and manufacturers seeking high-performance, sustainable materials,” said Nick Sandland, chief business officer at Algenesis. “By offering a biobased solution that both eliminates persistent microplastics and reduces carbon footprint, we’re helping companies create products that are truly circular and responsible from production to end of life.”

Kamil Antos, business development director for plastics and polyurethanes at Safic-Alcan, described Soleic as a natural fit within the company’s sustainable materials portfolio. “We are excited to add Soleic products to our growing range of high-performance, eco-friendly materials, enabling European manufacturers and brands to meet increasing consumer and regulatory expectations for circular solutions,” he said.

Photo: Soleic materials are derived from algae instead of fossil fuels. Credit: Garvit/Unsplash

Algenesis

Safic-Alcan