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OCOchem, a leader in CO2 electrolysis technology, has entered into a new partnership with ADM.

The collaboration aims to establish an innovative CO2 conversion facility at ADM's corn processing complex in Decatur, Illinois, utilising OCOchem’s proprietary Carbon FluX Electrolyzer technology.

The new facility will convert biogenic CO2 emissions from ADM’s ethanol production into formate molecules, which are versatile compounds applicable in various consumer and industrial products.

The partnership is poised to meet the growing demand for carbon-negative, biogenic formate products, aligning with the increasing focus on sustainability.

Todd Brix, co-founder and CEO of OCOchem, highlighted the importance of this partnership: "Working with ADM allows us to scale our CO2 electrolysis process commercially and fulfill early customer demand for sustainable formate products at competitive prices".

This collaboration not only underscores OCOchem's innovative approach but also positions ADM as a leader in industrial carbon management.

Kris Lutt, president of sustainable materials and strategic initiatives at ADM, added: "This collaboration represents a high-potential pathway for converting captured CO2 into valuable, carbon-negative molecules. OCOchem's impressive technology aligns seamlessly with our strategy to lead in sustainable molecule production, supporting lower-carbon supply chains and unlocking new value across the bio-based economy."

Key details of the partnership

Facility development: OCOchem will construct and operate modular Carbon FluX electrolyzer systems within ADM's existing facility, transforming water and CO2 captured from the bioethanol plant into carbon-negative formate molecules. Construction is expected to commence later this year, with completion targeted for the end of 2026.

Product range and applications: The companies plan to develop a comprehensive value chain for formate molecules and their derivatives, including formic acid, potassium formate and ethyl formate. These products will cater to diverse applications such as crop protection, fertilisers, industrial solvents, active pharmaceutical ingredients, as well as flavours and fragrances.

Innovative technology: OCOchem’s Carbon FluX Electrolyzer uses advanced gas diffusion electrode technology to efficiently convert CO2 and water into organic molecules. By employing biogenic CO2 as a feedstock, the facility aims to produce carbon-negative products, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Sustainability impact: This partnership is a testament to the growing trend of integrating sustainability into industrial processes. By converting CO2 emissions into valuable products, OCOchem and ADM are contributing to the development of a circular economy and addressing the urgent need for carbon reduction in manufacturing.

Since its inception, OCOchem has rapidly scaled its technology, achieving a 1,500x increase in the performance of its CO2 electrolyzer cell. Its commitment to innovation has garnered support from key organisations, including the US Army Research Office and the US Department of Energy.

The successful implementation of this facility could pave the way for broader adoption of CO2 conversion technologies across various sectors, further enhancing the sustainability of supply chains.

About OCOchem

OCOchem is a pioneering CO2 electrolysis company dedicated to converting CO2 into organic molecules through innovative technologies. Based in Richland, Washington, OCOchem focuses on decarbonising global supply chains and promoting a sustainable industrial future.