Rapidly renewable U.S. soybean oil is used to make many of Cortec® Corporation’s biobased innovations, including EcoSonic® ESD Paper, which protects electronics from static electricity (sparks and other electrostatic discharges can damage memory, disrupt contacts, or burn connections). Importantly, Cortec’s product also allows end users to recycle the paper packaging as an alternative to plastic.
EcoSonic® ESD Paper turned out to be the answer one electronics manufacturer was looking for as they tried to find a way to replace plastic ESD bags with something more environmentally responsible. Made into envelopes, the paper met all their sustainability requirements and was so satisfactory they quickly placed a second large order due to high demand. 
Why Soy?
“We innovate with soybean derivatives because they are a sustainable, renewable resource that is readily available in the Midwest, where four of our plants are located,” said Ming Shen, Sr. Scientist and Manager of Green Chemistry Initiatives at Cortec®. “Soy-based raw materials provide a variety of useful properties that we need at a reasonable price.”
Manufactured in Minnesota and Wisconsin, EcoSonic® ESD Paper is one of at least ten Cortec® products made with soybean derivatives. Founded in 1977, Cortec® is a global leader in sustainable corrosion control. Its products are used in practically any industry that battles rust. Cortec® has grown into a multinational group with offices in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia as well as distribution networks spanning 100 countries. By using soybean derivatives, Cortec® continues to meet growing industry demands for high-performance, renewable solutions while reducing its environmental impact.
Cortec’s Soy-Biobased Product Portfolio
Cortec® has integrated soy into a variety of industrial products, including:
- BioCorr® Rust Preventative – A dry film rust preventative for protecting manufactured parts. (USDA Certified Biobased Product)
- EcoLine® Biobased Bearing, Chain, and Roller Lube – A high-quality lubricant for bearings and chains.
- EcoLine® Surface Cleaner & Degreaser – A heavy-duty cleaner for industrial applications (USDA Certified Biobased Product).
- EcoLine® Long Term Rust Preventative – Provides temporary protection for machinery and loosens rusted parts. (USDA Certified Biobased Product)
- EcoLine® 4320/4330 – Industrial paint removers that are free of NMP and methylene chloride. (USDA Certified Biobased Product)
- EcoLine® Biobased Food Machinery Grease #1 and #2 – NLGI Grade 1 and 2 lubricants NSF-registered as H1 category lubricants for incidental food contact. (USDA Certified Biobased Products)
- EcoLine® Biobased Grease powered by Nano-VpCI™ – NLGI Grade 3 grease with enhanced corrosion protection for harsh environments. (USDA Certified Biobased Product)
- EcoLine® Biobased Rubber Revitalizer – Cleans and protects genuine and synthetic rubber. (USDA Certified Biobased Product)
- EcoLine® ELP – A versatile lubricant for industrial parts and hinges. (USDA Certified Biobased Product) For more product information, visit: https://www.cortecvci.com/
Looking Ahead
Cortec® remains committed to exploring new applications for soy-based materials. With an ongoing focus on research and development, the company is poised to expand its portfolio of renewable solutions, helping industries reduce their environmental impact while achieving their rust prevention and maintenance goals.