Toray Industries, Inc. announced today the development of spherical polyamide 4 fine particles that biodegrade in the sea (see Glossary note 1). The company plans to provide samples and evaluate the particles as a raw material for cosmetics, addressing the prohibition of conventional counterparts (note 2), and aims to advance technological development for mass production and sales, with commercialization targeted by the end of the year.
Previously, Toray manufactured and sold spherical polyamide 12 fine particles, which improved the smoothness of foundations and eye shadows. However, microplastics in cosmetics and facial cleansers bypass treatment and filtration systems in domestic wastewater, eventually contaminating the sea. This issue has threatened environmental biodiversity and marine pollution prevention efforts, leading to global regulatory restrictions. In September 2023, the European Chemicals Agency implemented a new restriction on microplastics under the REACH regulation, gradually limiting the use of intentionally added synthetic polymer particulates smaller than 5 mm, culminating in a total ban by 2035.
To address these environmental and regulatory challenges, Toray has been researching biodegradable polyamide 4.
Producing spherical polymer particles typically involves two methods: dissolving the polymer in a solvent to form spherical micelles, then removing the solvent, or melting the polymer. However, few solvents can dissolve polyamide 4, and its high melting point and unique thermal properties lead to thermal decomposition during melting, complicating the production of fine spherical particles. Toray overcame these challenges using proprietary technology developed through extensive R&D, successfully creating spherical polyamide 4 fine particles.
The company confirmed that these particles are biodegradable in activated sludge (note 3) and in oceans (note 4), which contain fewer microorganisms than soil.
Toray has completed the safety verification process (note 5) and obtained the necessary cosmetic ingredient labeling (note 6) to market its spherical polyamide 4 fine particles as a cosmetic raw material. It is collaborating with cosmetics manufacturers to assess small samples and will use customer feedback to enhance quality and establish a mass production system.
Additionally, Toray will continue R&D efforts to develop biomass-based biodegradable polymer particles.
As part of the Toray Group Sustainability Vision for 2050, the company aims to contribute to sustainable resource management. Toray is committed to meeting customer demand for eco-friendly resins, aligning with its corporate philosophy of contributing to social progress by delivering new value and achieving sustainable growth.
Glossary Notes:
- Polyamide 4: A biodegradable polymer.
- Conventional counterparts: Traditional non-biodegradable microplastics used in cosmetics.
- Activated sludge: A process used in wastewater treatment involving microorganisms to degrade organic matter.
- Ocean biodegradation: ASTM D6691 testing confirmed ocean biodegradation exceeding 90% in 120 days.
- Safety verification: Includes 24-hour occlusion patch and primary skin irritation tests.
- Cosmetic ingredient labeling: Obtained International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient name from the Personal Care Products Council and Japanese ingredient labeling name from the Japan Cosmetic Industry Association.
