Clariant Launches Titanium-Based Catalyst Solutions to Support More Sustainable Polyester Production

• Clariant's innovative AddWorks™ titanium-based catalyst solutions will transform the polyester polymerization process with higher sustainability and performance.
• This new technology reduces processing temperature and energy consumption through dynamic promotion effects, while improving color value, product quality, and production efficiency.
• After China implemented export restrictions, concerns about the supply of antimony in the market have intensified; this solution can alleviate the issue.

Recently, Clariant showcased its new AddWorks titanium-based catalyst solutions for polyester polymerization at the world's leading plastics and rubber industry exhibition, K 2025.

The technology is scheduled to launch in 2026, offering higher sustainability and performance compared to traditional antimony-based catalysts. It addresses environmental issues and supply chain challenges while simplifying the PET recycling process, thus promoting the development of a circular economy in the polyester industry. Given the large scale of the global PET market, the initial focus of this technology will be on the PET sector. Additionally, Clariant's titanium-based catalyst solution serves as an efficient transesterification/polycondensation catalyst and is applicable to a full range of polyester products, including PETG, PCT, PBT, PTT, PBAT, TPEE, and even emerging polyester materials like PEF.

This titanium-based catalyst technology represents a significant breakthrough in the field of polyester production: on one hand, it achieves superior performance, and on the other hand, it is safer for humans and the environment by reducing environmental mobility and toxicity, as well as minimizing the risk of bioaccumulation.

"Our AddWorks titanium-based catalyst technology marks a significant shift in the field of polyester manufacturing," said Mariano Suarez, head of the additives business market at Clariant. "By reducing processing temperatures and eliminating heavy metals in the production process, we are helping our customers achieve their sustainability goals while also enhancing their operational efficiency and product quality."

This innovation is being introduced at a critical time for the polyester industry: since China's imposition of antimony export controls came into effect in 2024, the industry has faced increasing uncertainty. China is the world's major supplier of antimony, a key component of traditional polyester catalysts, and these control measures pose significant supply chain challenges for global manufacturers.

Clariant's titanium-based solutions enable businesses to eliminate their dependence on antimony while providing superior color performance in end products—crucial for packaging, textiles, and other consumer-facing applications. Clariant's water-stable formulations ensure stable catalytic activity with no risk of deactivation or harmful byproducts, leading to consistent polymer quality, higher production efficiency, reduced downtime, and smoother production processes.

The economic benefits of this solution are not limited to supply chain security. Polyester producers using Clariant's titanium-based catalysts are expected to achieve potential savings in capital expenditures (CAPEX) and operational expenditures (OPEX) through increased capacity, reduced energy consumption, and lower wastewater treatment costs. These advantages align with the industry's trend towards more efficient and cost-effective manufacturing processes.

"When we developed this technology, we focused on both sustainability and performance," explained Emilie Meddah, Market Manager for Clariant's Additives Business. "Today, our customers face dual pressures from regulatory bodies and consumers to reduce environmental impact without compromising product quality. The AddWorks titanium-based catalyst solution addresses both concerns, providing a truly future-proof option for polyester production."

This solution is particularly important for polyester resin manufacturers, fiber producers, PET recycling companies, and technology licensors, as these companies are seeking to achieve product differentiation in a market that increasingly emphasizes sustainability. By facilitating the production of heavy metal-free polyester, Clariant's technology also supports brand owners in meeting evolving consumer demands and regulatory requirements.