Wedoany.com Report-Dec.2, Moeve (formerly Cepsa), headquartered in Madrid, Spain, and Honeywell International, Inc., based in Charlotte, North Carolina, have announced an expanded partnership to accelerate the global adoption of bio-based Linear Alkylbenzene (LAB), the primary raw material for Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate (LAS), the most widely used surfactant in household detergents.

Under the agreement, Moeve's proprietary NextLab-R technology – the first process to produce LAB at commercial scale from renewable feedstocks – will be integrated into Honeywell UOP's established licensing platform. This will enable detergent manufacturers worldwide to access sustainable, drop-in compatible LAB that maintains identical performance to conventional petroleum-based versions.

The collaboration also includes joint development of next-generation renewable LAB processes, adding bio-based solutions to Honeywell UOP's extensive portfolio of detergent intermediate technologies.

Rajesh Gattupalli, president of Honeywell UOP, stated: "Honeywell has a rich history of innovation in detergent technologies, meeting the need for effective and environmentally friendly products. By collaborating with Moeve, we are offering detergent manufacturers a new generation of lower-carbon, high-performance solutions."

José María Solana, CEO of Moeve Chemicals, commented: "NextLab-R proves that a more sustainable LAB can be produced industrially without compromising on performance. This agreement marks a new chapter in our long-standing relationship with Honeywell. It reflects not only technical excellence, but also a shared ambition to make more sustainable chemical technologies a tangible industrial reality."

Honeywell pioneered commercial LAB process licensing in the 1960s and, together with Moeve – the world’s largest LAB producer – has continuously improved energy efficiency through innovations such as the Detal-Plus™ process using proprietary catalysts. Currently, over 70 percent of global biodegradable detergent production relies on LAB manufactured with Honeywell UOP-licensed technology.

The partnership positions NextLab-R as a readily available renewable alternative that can be seamlessly adopted by existing LAB plants, supporting the detergent industry's transition toward lower-carbon raw materials while meeting rising consumer and regulatory expectations for sustainable household products. Licensing packages, including process design and technical support, will be offered globally through Honeywell's established commercial channels.