Press release
Personal Care
December 15, 2011

TEGOLON® ECO 10-10 the first fully vegetable-based Nylon-10,10

• Mattifying properties
• Cosmetic Nylon particles from 100% renewable sources
• High oil absorption
• Excellent compatibility with care and decorative cosmetic formulations

With TEGOLON® ECO 10-10, Evonik has developed the first purely plant-based Nylon-10,10 powder. In cosmetic formulations, Nylon helps improve the tactile properties of the product. Hence, this new polyamide grade generates a pleasant skin feel, something that means a lot to consumers. Often it is not just the specific product effect but also its haptic performance that dictates whether it is purchased or not. And thanks to its plant provenance, TEGOLON® ECO 10-10 also gives rise to claims such as “natural”, “green” or “vegetable-based”.

Because of its oil-absorbing properties and high covering power, TEGOLON® ECO 10-10 is particularly good in decorative cosmetic products such as mattifying foundations and loose and compact facial powders. The new Nylon from Evonik reduces unwanted shine on the skin, covers minor wrinkles and skin impurities and ensures excellent adherence and wear in lipsticks and concealer sticks, as well as in those foundations and facial powders. TEGOLON® ECO 10-10 also facilitates the development of light make-up formulations without the use of cyclopentasiloxane.

TEGOLON® ECO 10-10 consists of polyamide particles derived entirely from renewable sources. This new polyamide grade is based on Nylon-10,10, an AA-BB polyamide that is made in a polycondensation process of sebacic acid and decamethylene diamine. Both raw materials are derived from castor oil (Ricinus communis) and are therefore fully vegetable-based.

The CO2 balance of TEGOLON® ECO 10-10 is also well worth a second look. A life-cycle assessment confirms that TEGOLON® ECO 10-10’s carbon footprint is significantly lower compared to petrochemical based Nylon materials (kg CO2-equivalent/kg Nylon) – a contribution from Evonik to sustainable, responsible product solutions.

Yet with TEGOLON® ECO 10-10 there are no compromises when it comes to performance and efficacy. The shape and size of the cosmetic particles of this product are absolutely comparable to the standard particles of Nylon-12. Moreover, the new vegetable-based polyamide particles show the same high oil absorption as standard grades.

Company information

Evonik, the creative industrial group from Germany, is one of the world leaders
in specialty chemicals. Its activities focus on the key megatrends health, nutrition, resource efficiency and globalization. In 2010 about 80 percent of the Group’s chemicals sales came from activities where it ranks among the market leaders. Evonik benefits specifically from its innovative prowess and integrated technology platforms.
Evonik is active in over 100 countries around the world. In fiscal 2010 more than 34,000 employees generated sales of around €13.3 billion and an operating profit (EBITDA) of about €2.4 billion.

Disclaimer

In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.