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Covestro-Amulix: frequently asked questions
We can help you navigate the opportunities provided by Amulix® coating. This FAQ explains some of the benefits of this innovative and more sustainable product.
Frequently asked questions
Q: How is Amulix® different from other seed coatings?
A: Biodegradable, starch-based Amulix® Coatings not only have a lower carbon footprint than oil-based coatings, they are also a viable solution to the problem of microplastic pollution.
Q: Which agricultural markets is Amulix® offered in?
A: Amulix® is offered in field crops (grass, alfalfa, OSR, flax, etc.) and vegetable seeds.
Q: Why are Covestro and Amulix BV working together?
A: Covestro and Amulix BV are working together to further develop bio-based seed coating solutions for agricultural starter material, under the brand name Amulix®. These solutions enable lower dust-off than current technology, do not have negative impact on germination, are more sustainable than the widely used oil-based coatings, and offer significantly better performance than currently available, bio-based alternatives.
Q: Has Amulix® been tested?
A: Amulix® has been extensively tested by one large company for several years (since 2014) and in a variety of conditions for different crop types. Lab and field tests confirm the technology’s better result in germination, impressive dust reduction and better overall product performance.
Q: Has Amulix® been tested?
A: Covestro and Amulix BV will leverage the synergies of their core values, interests and competencies to deliver this highly innovative bio-based solution on a global scale. By combining research & development (R&D) strengths, these parties can bring relevant innovations to market faster and more effectively. Covestro’s global presence will accelerate the development of the Amulix® global business.
Q: What is the added value in the Covestro-Amulix collab?
A: Covestro and Amulix BV will leverage the synergies of their core values, interests and competencies to deliver this highly innovative bio-based solution on a global scale. By combining research & development (R&D) strengths, these parties can bring relevant innovations to market faster and more effectively. Covestro’s global presence will accelerate the development of the Amulix® global business.
Q: Which colors are available?
A: We have a standard assortment of colors but we also offer tailor made colors as well. In addition to the color selection we can supply a transparent binder.
Q: What does your product assortment consist of?
A: Ready-to-go filmcoat liquids and binders.
Q: Can we set up trials?
A: Yes, trials can be set up under NDA
Q: Do you offer technical support?
A: Yes, we offer technical support to test our products, assisting your operators in determining the right application dosage and if needed fine-tuning machinery.
Q: Can you show us results, data?
A: At the moment we are working on building up data. However, Amulix® has been extensively tested by one large company for several years (since 2014) and in a variety of conditions for different crop types. Lab and field tests confirm the technology’s better result in germination, impressive dust reduction and better, overall product performance compared to the current, oil-based alternatives.
Q: Surprisingly, Covestro has entered the seed business. Why?
A: In recent years Covestro has reoriented itself away from a traditional chemical company into a more sustainable company. Because we offer Biodegradable Coatings it is natural for us to look towards adjacent markets. We entered the seed coating market with first trials some time back. Amulix® has been active in the seed coating market since 2014, and this product has enabled Covestro to become a serious market player in the seed coating business.
Q: Conservation; do I need to store the product in a cool environment?
A: No cool storage is needed and shelf life is one year.
Q: Smell of the product – is it less than an oil-based coating?
A: Our products are virtually odorless.
Q: How does Amulix® perform compared to current oil-based coatings?
A: Our polymer is biodegradable and according to the ECHA microplastic proposal we offer a microplastic free solution. At the same time it still gives better results in germination, low dust-off and a better overall product performance compared to the current oil-based alternatives.
Q: Can you formulate crop protection products with Amulix®?
A: Yes, both conventional and biological.
Q: Do you only serve the organic industry?
A: We serve both the conventional and the organic market.
