Eastman acquires Chicago-based renewable chemical firm TetraVitae Bioscience assets for undisclosed sum; company's bio-catalysis technology to provide Eastman platform for developing range of bio-based processes

Alison Gallant

KINGSPORT, Tennessee , November 7, 2011 (press release) – Eastman Renewable Materials, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eastman Chemical Company, announced that it has acquired the assets of TetraVitae Bioscience, Inc., located in Chicago, Ill. TetraVitae is a leading developer of renewable chemicals, including bio-based butanol and acetone. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“This announcement is a demonstration of Eastman’s continued investment in innovation and our commitment to delivering sustainable solutions to our customers,” said Dr. Greg W. Nelson, senior vice president and chief technology officer. “I am confident that TetraVitae’s patented bio-catalysis technology will provide Eastman an excellent platform for the development of a range of bio-based processes that will strengthen our sustainable product offerings.”

“This technology is an excellent example of connecting science and sustainability,” said Godefroy Motte, senior vice president and chief regional and sustainability officer. “This acquisition is an important step in our sustainability journey and will go a long way toward helping us meet our goals for sustainably-advantaged products.”

Eastman recently released its 2011 Sustainability Report, which outlines the company’s current progress as well as measurable economic, environmental and social goals. To learn more, visit www.eastman.com/sustainability.

Eastman’s chemicals, fibers and plastics are used as key ingredients in products that people use every day. Approximately 10,000 Eastman employees around the world blend technical expertise and innovation to deliver practical solutions. The company is committed to finding sustainable business opportunities within the diverse markets and geographies it serves. A global company headquartered in Kingsport, Tenn., USA, Eastman had 2010 sales of $5.8 billion. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.

* All content is copyrighted by Industry Intelligence, or the original respective author or source. You may not recirculate, redistrubte or publish the analysis and presentation included in the service without Industry Intelligence's prior written consent. Please review our terms of use.