Celanese expands Edmonton facility to support the sustained-release drug delivery market

Celanese Corporation, a global chemical and specialty materials company, has announced an investment in expanded capabilities to meet high global demand for pharmaceutical-grade polymers used in the development of implants and inserts for sustained-release drug delivery.

The new 1,000-square-foot cleanroom facility, located in Edmonton, will focus on cryogenic micronization of VitalDose EVA material into a powder form that is ready to be blended with small molecules and biologics.

“Our VitalDose technology is already used in sustained-release drug delivery applications for effective, patient-centric drug delivery for certain ophthalmic diseases, addictive disorders and contraception,” said Dallas-based Susan Rahe, senior director, Celanese pharmaceutical solutions.

“Availability of pharmaceutical-grade polymers with broad molecule compatibility is vital to development of innovative drug delivery solutions that provide an improved patient experience.

“We see an opportunity to improve the future treatment of cancer, retinal disorders, and certain disorders of the central nervous system, with the potential to meaningfully improve the lives of people around the world.”

The announcement builds on the 2021 opening of the Celanese Pharmaceutical Development & Feasibility Lab. The micronizer and clean room facility are being prepared to supply VitalDose EVA in powder form by early 2023.

“We understand that providing cryogenic grinding reduces complexity for our global customers, allowing them to focus on accelerating the time to market for their solutions,” added Dirk Hair, director, technical and quality assurance at the Celanese Edmonton facility.

“Pharmaceutical companies will have the benefit of integrated material production and cryogrinding from our manufacturing facility with the same high-quality standards they’ve come to expect from Celanese.”