Astra Polymers, one of the Middle East’s foremost producers of plastics masterbatch solutions, has partnered with British climate technology company Levidian to develop a new generation of more sustainable, graphene-enhanced plastic products. The strategic collaboration, formalized at the recent Make It in the Emirates conference, aims to accelerate the integration of graphene into plastic applications, particularly within the automotive sector and other high-growth industries across the region.

With more than 30 years of experience in the plastics industry, Astra Polymers is known for its comprehensive portfolio of additive masterbatches that enhance the processability, performance and sustainability of plastic resins and compounds. Operating from the heart of the Middle East, the company serves a range of sectors, including automotive, construction, and consumer goods.

Levidian, a UK-based climate tech startup, brings to the partnership its patented LOOP technology, which captures carbon from methane in solid form. The process produces high-purity graphene alongside clean hydrogen. According to the company, this method results in the lowest carbon intensity of any graphene production process globally, with the potential to be net-zero or even carbon-negative depending on the methane source and the power grid’s energy mix.

Graphene is a revolutionary material known for its extraordinary strength, conductivity, and versatility. In the automotive industry alone, its applications are broad and impactful — from batteries and bumpers to door panels and paints. These materials not only boost mechanical performance but also contribute to reducing the environmental impact of the end products.

The two companies have already begun collaborative trials. Their initial focus is on integrating graphene produced by Levidian’s LOOP unit in Abu Dhabi into high-density polyethylene (HDPE). This material is widely used in automotive and industrial applications. The integration is expected to result in components that are not only stronger and lighter but also significantly lower in carbon footprint.

“Astra Polymers is recognized globally for its innovation and excellence in masterbatch manufacturing,” said Yehia El-Azab, CEO of Astra Polymers. “Our collaboration with Levidian is an important step toward enhancing our product offerings. By integrating graphene, we can meet the growing demand for high-performance, environmentally responsible solutions — especially in rapidly evolving markets like electric vehicles.”

The partnership comes at a pivotal time for the region. The electric vehicle market in the Gulf Arab states is expanding rapidly. Saudi Arabia, for instance, has committed to manufacturing and exporting more than 150,000 EVs by 2026, highlighting the urgency for local, sustainable materials to support this transition.

Colin Elcoate, managing director for MENA at Levidian, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative: “The shift to electric vehicles is central to the Middle East’s decarbonization strategy. Our collaboration with Astra Polymers showcases how localizing the production of advanced, sustainable materials like graphene can enhance regional supply chains, create skilled jobs and strengthen the UAE’s position in the global EV value chain.”

Together, Astra Polymers and Levidian are setting a new standard for innovation and sustainability in plastics, reinforcing the region’s leadership in clean technology and advanced materials.