Croda invests in the expansion of its polymer activities

The site, which is situated in Rawcliffe Bridge, now houses a brand new manufacturing facility constructed to clean-environmental standards, which is a short distance from the company’s international headquarters, at Cowick Hall.

The facility has been designed and constructed for the processing of specialty acrylic based polymers, and will serve to produce a growing portfolio of polymer ingredients for the cosmetics and personal care segment.

Aiming to become a major polymer player​

“The plan is to innovate and differentiate in the market, tapping into specific customer needs for polymers,”​ said Liam Smith, business development director - acrylic polymers, speaking exclusively to Cosmetics Design.

“Ultimately our goal ambition is to become a major player in the polymers field, worldwide.”​

Smith went on to explain that the company’s investment in this area has also included a number of experts in the polymers field, including the recruitment of research and development professionals with specific experience.

“We will be tapping into Croda’s strengths in areas such as esters and emulsifiers with the aim of expanding our portfolio of polymers that work with these ingredients for the cosmetics industry,”​ said Smith.

An expanding range of ingredients based on polymer technology​

During the second half of last year, the company expanded its range of polymer viscosity modifiers to create a portfolio of three ViscOptima products – LV, SE and PL – designed to give formulators greater flexibility to create specific textures and sensory attributes.

Croda also manufactures VisCaress HPD, PC and PL, a range of cationic polymer designed as both a thickening and conditioning agents for a complete range of cosmetic and personal care formulations.

Thanks to its increased manufacturing capacity, the company is now looking to expand this range throughout the course of this year, and beyond.

“We are planning on further extending this portfolio of polymers during the course of 2013 with a number of other products to add to this portfolio which will be global launches,”​ said Smith.