Successful demonstration program leads to commercial implementation of innovative membrane technology

June 3, 2025 - Braskem and Ardent Process Technologies today announced the successful completion of their joint development program for an innovative olefin-paraffin separation technology, marking a significant advancement in polyolefin production efficiency.

The collaboration, which began in November 2020, centered on the development and testing of Ardent's OptipermTM membrane technology at a dedicated demonstration unit within Braskem's facilities. According to both companies, the development program has satisfactorily met key performance metrics, including membrane efficiency, durability, and operational stability.

"The successful pilot program demonstrates the tremendous potential of this technology to revolutionize olefin paraffin separation processes," said Bill Charlton, the COO of Ardent and leader of this project. "We are excited to move forward with Braskem towards full commercial implementation."

Following these promising results, Braskem has confirmed its intention to implement this technology across commercial facilities. Engineering and design work have already commenced for the first commercial installation.

"This technology represents a significant step forward in our commitment to innovative and sustainable solutions," said Gus Hutras, Global Process Technology Director at Braskem. "The successful pilot results align with our vision of transforming the chemicals and plastics industry through innovation while advancing our goals toward carbon neutrality. We're excited to move this breakthrough technology into commercial implementation."

Ardent develops membrane systems that accelerate decarbonization and improve efficiency in energy-intensive industries, the company claims. According to Ardent, its patented OptipermT platform enables scalable, bolt-on solutions for carbon capture and other complex chemical separations.

Ardent has over 20 years of manufacturing experience across power generation, industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and O&G operations and a track record of taking new technologies from the lab to the field, partnering with global leaders like Braskem, Chevron, and Pfizer to deliver end-to-end solutions at commercial scale. In 2023 Ardent raised an oversubscribed $16.5 million Series A round led by Pangaea Ventures, with participation from Syensqo Ventures, Chevron Technology Ventures, Technip Energies and GC Ventures.

Braskem has an innovative DNA and a comprehensive portfolio of plastic resins and chemical products for diverse segments, such as food packaging, construction, manufacturing, automotive, agribusiness, healthcare, and hygiene, among others. With 40 industrial units in Brazil, the United States, Mexico, and Germany, Braskem exports its products to clients in more than 70 countries.

Braskem America is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Braskem S.A. headquartered in Philadelphia. The company is the leading producer of polypropylene in the United States, with five production plants located in Texas, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, an Innovation and Technology Center in Pittsburgh, and operations in Lexington, MA focused on leveraging groundbreaking developments in biotechnology and advanced materials.

Source: Braskem