October 22, 2025 15:18

Clariant has unveiled at K2025 in Düsseldorf its new titanium-based AddWorks catalyst system for polyester polymerization, positioned as a more sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional antimony-based catalysts. Commercial launch is expected next year.

According to the Swiss group, thanks to its kinetic boosting effect, this technology enables lower processing temperatures, reduced energy consumption and improved color, product quality and overall production efficiency. It also facilitates PET recycling, contributing to greater circularity in the polyester industry.

Water-stable and designed to ensure consistent catalytic activity, the titanium-based AddWorks catalysts operate without the risk of deactivation or the formation of unwanted byproducts, ensuring reliable polymer quality, higher productivity, reduced downtime and smoother processing. The technology also offers a concrete response to China’s export restrictions on antimony, introduced last year.

Initially developed for PET, the new AddWorks systems are compatible with the entire polyester family—PETG, PCT, PBT, PTT, PBAT, TPEE and even the emerging biobased PEF—thanks to their high efficiency in transesterification and polycondensation processes.

“Our AddWorks titanium-based catalyst technology marks an important shift in polyester manufacturing,” said Mariano Suarez, head of marketing additives at Clariant. “By enabling lower processing temperatures and eliminating heavy metals, we are helping our customers achieve their sustainability goals while improving operational efficiency and product quality.”

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