AkzoNobel has partnered with cleantech company Photanol to develop a process via Photanol’s modified cyanobacteria technology that uses light to directly convert CO2 into chemicals.

The aim is to produce “green” chemical building blocks that will eventually replace raw materials AkzoNobel currently obtains from fossil-based production. AkzoNobel’s chemicals are used extensively by the chemicals, detergent, construction, food, pulp and paper and plastic industries.

The two companies will start by developing a number of specific chemicals that are currently used by AkzoNobel’s Specialty Chemicals Business Area. The partnership is intended to be a stepping stone for potential commercial production of fourth generation bio-based chemicals.