P2 Science

About P2 Science

P2 Science is a green chemistry company that develops and manufactures high-performance, renewable ingredients for the beauty, personal care, flavor and fragrance, and performance materials markets. The company was founded in 2011 by Professor Paul Anastas, known as the "father of Green Chemistry," and Dr. Patrick Foley, both from the Yale Center for Green Chemistry and Green Engineering. Their vision was to create sustainable alternatives to the non-sustainable, synthetic compounds commonly used in everyday products. Elm Street Ventures was a co-founder and provided the initial seed capital.

P2 Science operates on the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry, focusing on designing safer, more sustainable products and processes that reduce waste and conserve resources. The company utilizes patented technologies, including Process Intensified Continuous Etherification (PICE) and Process Intensified Ozonolysis (PIOz), to convert renewable feedstocks like vegetable oils and upcycled terpenes from the forestry industry into high-value specialty products. This approach allows for the creation of innovative ingredients that are both high-performing and environmentally friendly. The company's first manufacturing plant opened in Naugatuck, Connecticut, in September 2018.

The company's flagship product line is Citropol®, a portfolio of patented, superior-performing alternatives to silicones and petrochemicals. These ingredients are used in a wide range of cosmetics and personal care products, offering benefits such as hydration, conditioning, and enhanced sensory experiences. For example, Citropol® DE-4 is a high molecular weight liquid polymer that outperforms heavy silicones and ethoxylated esters. In 2023, Unilever's haircare brand, Living Proof, launched new products incorporating P2's ingredients. The company's product portfolio also includes aroma chemicals, ingredients for flavor and fragrance, and specialty materials for markets like nylons and lubricants. P2 Science's business model involves selling these specialty ingredients directly and through distribution to brands and manufacturers globally. The company has secured a total of $39.2 million in funding over nine rounds, with investors including BASF, Chanel, Lewis & Clark AgriFood, and HG Ventures.