DNP Invests in RenewCO₂ Developer of Next-Generation Materials Leveraging CO₂

Tokyo, January  19, 2025, Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (DNP) is pleased to announce that we have invested in RenewCO₂ Inc., a U.S. start-up based in Somerset, New Jersey, led by CEO Anders Laursen.

RenewCO₂ specializes in the development of catalyst materials and electrolysis technologies that directly convert water and carbon dioxide (CO₂) into useful chemicals and fuels. Leveraging these strengths, RenewCO₂ is developing production systems capable of manufacturing essential industrial raw materials. Their innovation roadmap includes the development of a proprietary technology for monoethylene glycol (MEG)*¹ identified as a potential application, the primary feedstock for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin. RenewCO₂ is currently working towards deploying its established capabilities for producing formic acid and formate salts which are used in energy production, animal feed preservatives, de-icinig, and leather tanning, as well as other applications. Additionally, RenewCO₂ is developing its next generation sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Process using the same electrolyzer technology as for formic acid/formats.

Through our investment in RenewCO₂, DNP will support the development and mass production of the critical electrode components used in RenewCO₂’s production equipment. By promoting the development of products that leverage CO₂-derived chemicals produced, we will create synergies with our existing businesses as well as contributing to the realization of a carbon-free society as outlined in the DNP Group Environmental Vision 2050.

Investment and Partnership Aims

DNP upholds the goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from our business sites. We are therefore strengthening energy-saving activities and actively promoting the introduction of renewable energy. One initiative positioned to achieve this goal is carbon dioxide capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). We are also working to realize a sustainable society through our products and services, including the use of environmentally friendly materials.

RenewCO₂ possesses technology capable of producing chemical products such as MEG, SAF, and formic-acid based chemicals from water and CO₂ at low cost. Compared to conventional production methods, the company's products have the advantage of being carbon-negative, meaning it absorbs and removes more GHGs than it emits.

Key Areas of Collaboration

• DNP will collaborate with RenewCO₂ on developing the electrode components that are essential to the company’s production systems. DNP will utilize its converting and material processing technologies, including ink dispersion, precision coating, and wide-width coating to develop optimal electrode components capable of maximizing the performance of catalyst materials, with the aim of improving system performance.
• DNP will leverage its manufacturing technology expertise in mass production, and the partners will work to promote the social implementation of the company’s production systems.

Going Forward

Through this partnership, DNP aims to establish RenewCO₂'s mass production technology by 2030. We will also collaborate with environmentally conscious partners to develop PET resin products using MEG made from CO₂. By promoting the adoption of carbon-negative materials, DNP seeks to advance their integration into society and contribute to a more sustainable future.

*¹ Monoethylene glycol (MEG): A colorless, transparent liquid used as a raw material for PET bottles, polyester fibers, antifreeze, and solvents.

*Company and product names mentioned in this release are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

*Information contained in this release is current as of the date of announcement. It may be changed without notice.