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Environment

Silica Offered As Microbead Alternative

by Michael McCoy
November 17, 2014 | A version of this story appeared in Volume 92, Issue 46

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Credit: istock/GlobalStock
Evonik seeks to replace polyolefin microbeads in personal care products.
Evonik seeks to replace polyolefin microbeads in personal care products.
Credit: istock/GlobalStock
Evonik seeks to replace polyolefin microbeads in personal care products.

The German chemical maker Evonik Industries is launching two new silica products that it says can replace polyethylene microbeads in personal care products. The beads are added to shower gels and face washes for their exfoliating properties, but they have been criticized for passing through water treatment systems and accumulating in lakes. Other firms also have alternatives including Honeywell, which offers a polylactic acid bead, and Impact Colors, with rice- and bamboo-based particles.

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