Viridi Develops CO2-Based Surfactant Technology
Viridi, a UK deep tech company focused on CO₂-to-chemicals innovation, announced the launch of a new anionic surfactant produced using captured carbon dioxide as a principal feedstock. The breakthrough represents the first commercial use of CO₂ in the manufacture of anionic surfactants.
The product serves as a next-generation replacement for conventional anionics, eliminating oil palm-derived feedstocks while improving performance and supporting compliance with tightening environmental regulations. It offers up to a 70% reduction in product carbon footprint compared to fossil-based alternatives with improved cleaning capability and significantly enhanced skin mildness—all without containing any 1,4-dioxane.
The new surfactant is enabled by Viridi’s solid, reusable catalyst platform, which converts captured CO₂ into surfactant intermediates. Designed to operate with standard reactors and minimal modification, the process runs at lower temperatures and standard pressures while allowing straightforward separation and catalyst recovery. This makes it readily adaptable for deployment within existing manufacturing infrastructure.
Viridi plans to license the technology to surfactant producers with early commercial deployment targeted for 2026, subject to partner timelines and permitting. The company is also advancing its CO₂-to-chemicals platform to additional surfactant classes and other intermediates, aiming to broaden its decarbonization impact across the chemical industry.
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