Historically, UV-curable formulations have relied on petrochemical-derived components to produce monomers, oligomers, and photoinitiators. While these non-renewable chemicals have played a key role in the industry for many years, there is a rapid shift towards sustainability. This transition is driving innovation for biobased alternatives and energy-efficient curing methods.   New for 2025, Anstar's portfolio includes biobased UV-curing raw materials offering up to 73% bio-content with our product ES-1101  Modified Soybean Acrylate. Other new technology includes biobased polyurethane acrylates and polyether urethane speciality oligomers offering up to 6 functionality and low viscosities. Anstar also offers biobased BPA-free alternatives to BPA epoxy acrylate.   The key areas of research explored by Anstar and collaborations with academic and industry partners include:   Plant-Derived Oils:  Acrylates from soybean and castor oil now replace conventional monomers in resin formulations. Lignin-Derived:  Lignin-based monomers and oligomers enhance biodegradability and support environmental efforts. Carbohydrate-Based Oligomers:  Glucose and cellulose-based oligomers offer a renewable foundation for UV-curable resins.   Although UV technology already offers a more sustainable option, incorporating biobased materials further reduces reliance on petrochemicals, improving the environmental profile of cured products. These areas of research have helped Anstar develop many new products for 2025 and more will be added in the near future. Our bio-sourced acrylates are leading the way for sustainability in the market.   The key areas driving innovation in biobased ingredients in UV-curing technology include:   Market Demand:  Consumers and businesses are increasingly demanding products with a lower environmental impact, pushing manufacturers to adopt greener technologies. Environmental Regulations:  Stricter European policies are limiting the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants, leading industries to seek eco-friendly alternatives. Renewable Innovation:  The development of biobased materials, derived from new renewable sources such as plant oils and lignin, provides sustainable substitutes for traditional petrochemical ingredients, with biobased products approaching parity on price and performance.   Anstar is committed to the future of biobased UV-curing and is continually developing next-generation ingredients for coatings, adhesives, and inks. The company is also pioneering advancements in biobased hyperbranched oligomers, ensuring high performance with reduced environmental impact. Through collaborations with academic and industry partners, Anstar is accelerating the commercialisation of these solutions, helping product formulators transition to more sustainable UV-curing technologies.   Future-proof your business with cutting-edge, sustainable, bio-based UV-curable solutions. For more information on our bio-based products contact us via info@anstar.com Farmers on a combine harvester, harvesting soybean crop, which produces a waste stream to generate bio-based chemicals.

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has recently classified diphenyl (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide (TPO) as a substance of very high concern, meaning its use will soon be restricted in various UV cure applications. The clock is now ticking for formulators currently utilising TPO, however, support is available! Anstar can provide options for all the challenges faced in reformulating with TPO alternatives. Anstar supplies cutting-edge photoinitiators that deliver the same excellent benefits in performance as TPO. Our products are compliant with the latest regulatory decisions, ensuring that your formulations are future-proofed and effective for consumers. Whether formulating for cosmetic gel nails, coatings, or any other UV-cured applications, our alternatives offer the perfect balance of performance and compliance. What Challenges Can Be Overcome?   Yellowing Avoid yellowing with an alternative which absorbs UV at shorter wavelengths. One such alternative is JRCure TPO-L  which is easily incorporated into a formulation and can aid the solubility of other photoinitiators, providing good miscibility. TPO-L provides depth cure in UV and LED curable formulations. Curing Speed For fast results with an alternative that rapidly polymerises unsaturated resins utilising UV and near visible light exposure  JRCure 1109  (BAPO) is best in class. Perfect for curing pigmented formulations in outdoor applications, it can be formulated with UV absorbers to gain good weather stability. Odour and more… JRCure 1919 is a new future-proof TPO replacement, researched and developed by the in-house laboratory experts at Jiuri New Materials, with extremely low yellowing and high reactivity. Suitable for UV ink, OPV, fibre optic coatings, 3D printing, adhesives, it is the alternative for a new generation of UV curing products. Why Choose Anstar?   Proven Performance Through our long-standing partnership with Jiuri New Materials, our alternatives provide fast and reliable curing, just like TPO, without compromising product quality. We aim to provide products that maintain the durability and long-lasting finish all customers expect. Safety First With increasing concerns around the regulatory status of TPO, our solutions are the better choices that meet regulatory requirements. Anstar continues to be at the forefront of regulatory affairs, monitoring the status of our products worldwide.   Seamless Reformulation Reformulating your products with alternatives doesn't have to take a long time. Our dedicated technical team, based in the UK can offer support when you need it, reducing the potential for significant changes and ensuring a smooth transition to a relevant alternative.   Dependable and Reliable Anstar works hard to add value for every customer. With UK and EU-based warehousing, deliveries can be quick, smooth and dependable, and our team is on hand to help throughout the entire process.   Now is the best time to decide to reformulate and future-proof products for changing regulatory requirements. With Anstar's innovative alternatives, expertise and world-class customer service formulating for success is simple.

As Anstar continues to grow, we are excited to introduce our newest team member, Connie Cheng! "Connie, originally from Taiwan, pursued her postgraduate degree in Supply Chain Logistics Management at Durham University. Her professional journey encompasses diverse sectors including automobile, marine products, and retail. With a strong passion for operational efficiency, Connie is thrilled to contribute her expertise to our growing company and support its continued success."   We are confident that Connie’s extensive knowledge in supply chain logistics will be a significant asset as we continue to achieve our ambitious goals.   If you're interested in joining our innovative team, please visit our LinkedIn page where you can view current job openings.   https://uk.linkedin.com/company/anstar-limited