Lotte Fine Chemical Selected as Public Procurement Service Innovative Product with Specialty Material

Cellulose-Based Soil Conditioner "CelloFarm"
Retains Soil Moisture for Use in Agriculture, Forestry, and Horticulture
No Microplastics...A Sustainable Alternative to Petroleum-Based Superabsorbent Polymers

Lotte Fine Chemical has been selected as a government-certified innovative product for its cellulose-based soil conditioner that retains moisture in the soil.

On January 14, Lotte Fine Chemical announced that its soil conditioner "CelloFarm" was selected as an innovative product at the Public Procurement Service's Innovative Product Certification Ceremony held at the Seoul Regional Public Procurement Service. Once designated as an innovative product by the Public Procurement Service, it becomes possible to enter into private contracts with public institutions. The product is also subject to the indemnity system and mandatory purchase system for innovative products. Through this, Lotte Fine Chemical has entered the public procurement market.

Lotte Fine Chemical Soil Conditioner Celoparm. Lotte Fine Chemical

CelloFarm is a soil conditioner made from cellulose derivatives, a specialty material used in various industries such as pharmaceuticals and food. It absorbs 8 to 10 times its weight in water and gradually releases it, supporting the growth of crops and trees even in soils lacking moisture. It also helps nutrients in the soil remain for longer periods, preventing them from being washed away by rain and thereby contributing to increased crop yields.

CelloFarm is used in agriculture, forestry, and horticulture. Product demonstrations are also being conducted with organizations such as the Korea Arboretum and Garden Management Agency, university research institutes, and agricultural corporations. Recognized for these achievements, it was selected as an innovative product. As global climate change accelerates drought, wildfires, and desertification, the demand for soil conditioners that improve water retention is also rising. According to market research firm Grand View Research, the global market for superabsorbent polymers (SAP) for agriculture is expected to reach 1.5 billion dollars (about 2.2 trillion won) in 2024, with an average annual growth rate of 6.4%.

Currently, most agricultural superabsorbent polymers are petroleum-based, raising concerns about microplastics remaining in the soil. CelloFarm, made from plant-based pulp, is differentiated by the absence of plastic residue issues. With this innovative product designation, Lotte Fine Chemical has secured sales channels to public institutions. Based on this, the company plans to accelerate commercialization. It also aims to expand into overseas markets with specialty materials tailored to climate change and carbon reduction trends.

Jung Seungwon, CEO of Lotte Fine Chemical, said, "With CelloFarm being selected as an innovative product by the Public Procurement Service, we will strengthen demonstrations centered on public institutions and accelerate commercialization. We will also actively pursue entry into overseas markets as a material for responding to climate change."