ADM, OCOchem to build CO₂ conversion facility in Illinois

U.S.A – ADM has announced a strategic partnership with OCOchem, a leader in carbon dioxide electrolysis, to build an advanced CO₂ conversion facility at ADM’s corn processing complex in Decatur, Illinois. 

The plant will use OCOchem’s proprietary Carbon FluX Electrolyzer to transform biogenic CO₂ emissions from ADM’s ethanol production into formate molecules, versatile compounds used in a variety of consumer and industrial products.

The collaboration reflects rising demand for carbon-negative, biogenic chemicals as industries intensify efforts to reduce emissions and transition to sustainable materials.

“Working with ADM allows us to scale our CO₂ electrolysis process commercially and meet early customer demand for sustainable formate products at competitive prices,” said Todd Brix, co-founder and CEO of OCOchem.

OCOchem, based in Richland, Washington, develops technologies that convert CO₂ into organic molecules, helping decarbonize global supply chains and foster a sustainable industrial future. This partnership also positions ADM as a leader in industrial carbon management.

“This collaboration represents a high-potential pathway for converting captured CO₂ into valuable, carbon-negative molecules,” said Kris Lutt, president of sustainable materials and strategic initiatives at ADM. “OCOchem’s impressive technology aligns seamlessly with our strategy to lead in sustainable molecule production and unlock new value across the bio-based economy.”

Facility development and applications

OCOchem will construct and operate modular electrolyzer systems within ADM’s existing site, converting water and captured CO₂ into carbon-negative formate. Construction is expected to start later this year and finish by the end of 2026.

The companies aim to build a comprehensive value chain for formate derivatives, including formic acid, potassium formate, and ethyl formate, serving markets such as crop protection, fertilizers, industrial solvents, active pharmaceutical ingredients, and flavors and fragrances.

Innovative technology and sustainability impact

OCOchem’s Carbon FluX Electrolyzer employs advanced gas diffusion electrode technology to efficiently transform CO₂ and water into organic molecules. Using biogenic CO₂ as feedstock helps reduce dependence on fossil inputs while delivering carbon-negative products.

Since its founding, OCOchem has increased electrolyzer performance 1,500-fold, attracting support from the US Army Research Office and the US Department of Energy.

By converting emissions into valuable products, ADM and OCOchem are advancing a circular economy model. 

If successful, the Decatur facility could pave the way for broader adoption of CO₂ conversion technologies, driving decarbonization and strengthening the sustainability of global supply chains. 

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