Genomatica, a widely-recognized technology leader for bio-based chemicals today announced that Viachem, an innovative distributor of specialty chemicals and ingredients, will market, sell and distribute Genomatica’s natural, award-winning Brontide butylene glycol to the personal care market in North America.

The partners expect Brontide to be a compelling drop-in replacement for petroleum-based ingredients currently used in personal care products – for moisture retention, improved texture, antimicrobial properties and as a stabilizer for extracts. Genomatica produces Brontide bio-based butylene glycol from natural, plant-based sugars using its safe and sustainable fermentation-based process technology. This innovative approach has high appeal in personal care applications where demand for natural ingredients is growing.

Both partners are seeing strong interest in Brontide. At a recent personal care industry preview at SWSCC, Brontide commanded the attention of many formulators, leading to numerous requests for product samples.

“Brontide is opening doors for personal care manufacturers looking to create more natural products, and we anticipate widespread interest in the months ahead,” said Mike Efting, Viachem’s founder and president. “Brontide gives our customers a natural alternative that delivers the same formulation properties as petroleum-based material, helping them to differentiate their brands.”

Both companies are regarded as innovators and have been recognised by the mainstream chemical industry. Genomatica is a long-standing leader in bioengineering and has earned many industry awards for its bio-based process technologies, including the prestigious ICIS Innovation Award for Brontide.

Viachem uses a multistep, strategic approach for marketing better, differentiated ingredients. The company is at the forefront of personal care trends; offers an extensive product portfolio; and employs experienced sales professionals that are chemists and biologists, to better serve their customers. Viachem’s unique sales and marketing model earned them a finalist spot in the Best Business Innovation category for the ICIS Innovation Awards.

“Viachem knows the personal care market and understands how Brontide can help formulators develop better, more natural products,” said Damien Perriman, Genomatica’s senior vice president, Specialty Chemicals. “The company’s innovative approaches to marketing and customer support, as well as their reputation, make them the ideal partner for distributing Brontide in North America.”