Eliminating Emissions from Black Pigments
By Kevin Bratcher, COO of Nature Coatings
I spend a lot of time chatting with R&D professionals about sustainability. Clients and those still in the research phase tell me about the challenges they're facing, especially around hidden sources of emissions like the pigments they use. They’re often looking for something simple but impactful to help meet their environmental targets without disrupting operations - something I can appreciate as COO!
Given global urgency around climate action, switching to sustainable materials like BioBlack™ isn't just beneficial—it's essential. By proactively adopting sustainable alternatives like BioBlack, companies are not just mitigating environmental risks; they're also enhancing brand reputation, securing long-term customer loyalty, and positioning themselves competitively in markets that increasingly prioritize environmental responsibility.
One of the first things we talk about are the origins of our BioBlack products. Unlike traditional carbon black, which is made from petroleum and carries a carbon footprint of around 2.32 kg CO₂e per kilogram, BioBlack is derived from an unlikely source: wood waste—things like branches and wood chips that would otherwise end up in landfills or burned into the atmosphere. Clients generally find this intriguing, as it addresses both waste management and emissions simultaneously.
The production process is another common area of concern. I explain that we use a controlled thermal conversion process—basically, we heat the wood waste without burning it under very specific conditions to create a stable pigment. A bonus for our clients is that this process generates steam and renewable energy, which we then capture and reuse to power our facility. It's a neat closed-loop setup that resonates with teams who value efficiency and practical sustainability.
Lifecycle assessments, or LCAs, always come up too. We've completed rigorous third party peer reviewed LCAs following ISO standards, showing BioBlack™ has a net-negative carbon footprint. Specifically, BioBlack TX has a footprint as low as -0.382 kg CO₂e per kilogram, and BioBlack 13 reaches an impressive -2.247 kg CO₂e per kilogram. Compared to traditional carbon black, these numbers provide a clear, measurable advantage in emissions reduction.
Companies today face a growing list of restrictions and standards, and dealing with hazardous substances like PAHs and heavy metals found in conventional pigments can be a major headache. BioBlack is completely free from these harmful components, simplifying compliance and giving our clients peace of mind.
Lastly, we always touch on the full lifecycle of BioBlack. Clients appreciate knowing that from sourcing and production to packaging and eventual disposal, BioBlack™ consistently supports their sustainability goals. This comprehensive approach really hits home because it ensures they're making a positive environmental impact across the board.
In short, when I talk with clients, our conversations revolve around real-world sustainability—how BioBlack™ can practically and effectively help meet emissions reduction targets, simplify regulatory compliance, and seamlessly integrate into existing operations. With clear data supporting its benefits compared to traditional carbon black, BioBlack™ genuinely makes a difference for our clients and their businesses.
By adopting BioBlack, our clients have collectively saved thousands of kilograms of CO₂ emissions—turning what could have been an environmental liability into a meaningful contribution to sustainability and business growth.
