Bio-based solutions are expanding in the U.S. as Qore, a joint venture between Cargill and HELM, opens a new $300 million facility in Eddyville, Iowa. The plant will produce QIRA®, the world’s first “large-scale 1,4-butanediol (BDO) made from locally grown dent corn. QIRA is used in many everyday products—like plastics and clothing—and offers a renewable, eco-friendly alternative to fossil-based chemicals.”
The facility will officially launch on July 22, 2025, with a grand opening event featuring Iowa farmers, government leaders, company representatives, and QIRA customers. The event will include interactive exhibits and a panel discussion to showcase the innovation behind the project.
Using corn grown mainly within 100 miles of the site, the plant will “produce 66,000 metric tons of QIRA each year.” As the largest facility of its kind, it’s a major step toward cleaner, more sustainable materials in global supply chains.
Image Credit:
Qore
