Zeon Corporation and U.S.-based Visolis Inc. are moving their partnership into a new phase, announcing the signing of a binding term sheet aimed at strengthening collaboration on the commercialization of bio-based isoprene monomer and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The agreement is also designed to support the process leading to a final investment decision (FID) for a production facility.
The term sheet covers key items required for FID, including the business structure, roles and responsibilities, technology and development policies, detailed engineering for the production facility, evaluation of candidate sites, supplier engagement, regulatory approvals, and the financing process. The step is seen as a major milestone in the transition from technology verification to implementation preparation toward commercialization.
Why bio-based isoprene and SAF matter
Bio-based isoprene monomer is a critical building block for synthetic rubber, widely used in tire manufacturing as well as automotive components, industrial applications, and various consumer goods. As an alternative to fossil-based feedstocks, bio-based production supports sustainability targets across supply chains while offering a strong pathway to reduce the carbon footprint of manufacturing.
Sustainable aviation fuel, meanwhile, is considered one of the most effective tools for decarbonizing aviation, particularly as electrification remains limited for long-haul flights in the near term. Because SAF can be used within existing aircraft and fuel infrastructure, it enables emissions reductions without requiring major technical changes to fleets, playing a key role in helping the sector move closer to its climate goals.
Zeon and Visolis said they will continue working toward the early launch of commercial-scale production and the supply of products to the market, following the demonstration of mass-production technology using Visolis’ proprietary process.
