Cepsa Química Unveils NextLab to Produce Low-Carbon Detergents in Europe, Asia

Cepsa Química has launched its innovative NextLab Low Carbon product, now available for Europe and Asia. This cutting-edge product is created by significantly reducing plant emissions during the production process through the use of renewable heat instead of conventional fossil fuels. As a pioneer in the chemical industry, this approach allows Cepsa to produce a product with identical characteristics, qualities, and performance to traditional Linear Alkylbenzene (LAB) but with a substantially lower environmental impact.

Specifically, a Comparative Product Carbon Footprint analysis conducted by the company reveals that NextLab Low Carbon emits 19% fewer greenhouse gases compared to LAB manufactured using fossil fuels. This significant reduction marks an important advancement in environmentally friendly chemical production.

In 2023, Cepsa Química first manufactured NextLab Low Carbon at its Canadian facility, catering to the North American market. For the first time, the company is extending its production to Europe and Asia, originating from its Puente Mayorga facility in southern Spain. This facility is recognized as one of the most significant in the global chemical industry and was the first to implement the groundbreaking Detal Flex 2-phenyl technology. This technology enhances plant efficiency and safety while further promoting sustainability, reducing environmental impact, and optimizing LAB production.

Carlos Molina, Vice President of Global Surfactants at Cepsa, highlighted that producing NextLab Low Carbon for the European and Asian markets signifies a deeper collaboration with customers. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for environmentally sustainable detergent production as companies seek to accelerate their decarbonization efforts. Additionally, it aligns with Cepsa Química's broader environmental goals encapsulated in the Positive Motion strategy, which focuses on developing green and sustainable chemistry to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

As the world’s leading manufacturer of LAB, Cepsa Química accounts for approximately 18% of global production of this key ingredient in biodegradable detergents. Over 60% of the biodegradable detergents available, both for domestic and industrial use, incorporate LAB in their formulations. LAB is valued for its excellent properties, effectiveness, and compatibility with various ingredients, making it a versatile component in both traditional detergent products (like powders and bars) and advanced formulations (such as single-dose capsules and highly concentrated liquids). This launch underscores Cepsa's commitment to sustainability and innovation in the chemical sector.

Cepsa is a Spanish multinational oil and gas company located at Torre Cepsa in Madrid's Cuatro Torres Business Area. It operates in various European countries and has a presence in Algeria, Canada, Colombia, Morocco, Brazil, and Panama.