CitroTech and Hexion formed a joint venture to deliver safer, eco-friendly, fire-protected wood products at global commercial scale.
CitroTech Inc., a well-known specialty chemical company recognized for creating environmentally safe fire inhibitor solutions, has partnered with Hexion Inc., a global leader in adhesives and performance materials, to establish a new 50/50 joint venture aimed at transforming fire protection standards in the wood products industry. This strategic collaboration is designed to introduce advanced fire-retardant technologies for lumber and building materials, allowing manufacturers of plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), and engineered wood products to incorporate fire resistance directly into their production process on a global scale.
This partnership brings together the unique strengths of both companies. CitroTech contributes its patented and scientifically validated fire-retardant chemistry, which stands out as the only formulation approved under the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Safer Choice program. This recognition highlights the product’s safety for both people and the environment. On the other hand, Hexion brings decades of expertise in wood product manufacturing, strong industry relationships, and the operational capability to scale innovative technologies for widespread commercial use. By combining these strengths, the joint venture aims to reshape the way fire protection is approached in wood construction, making it a built-in feature rather than an after-treatment step.
The companies have already completed over a year of testing with some of North America’s largest wood product manufacturers, proving the effectiveness and reliability of the technology. These successful trials position the new venture to secure major commercial customers early in its launch and accelerate industry adoption.
One of the main goals of the joint venture is to replace traditional borate-based fire inhibitors, which have long been used in wood treatment but come with significant drawbacks. These older solutions are not environmentally friendly and depend heavily on pressure treatment methods that can reduce the strength and durability of wood. In contrast, CitroTech’s advanced fire-retardant solutions are designed to deeply penetrate wood fibers at the molecular level, preventing fire ignition without damaging the structural integrity of the material. This innovative approach not only improves fire safety but also preserves the performance and longevity of the wood.
CitroTech’s fire inhibitor is further supported by extensive third-party certifications, including UL GREENGUARD Gold certification and ASTM E84 Extended compliance. These certifications confirm its safety, low chemical emissions, and fire performance standards. As the only long-term fire inhibitor recognized by the EPA’s Safer Choice program, the product offers a much safer alternative for builders, manufacturers, contractors, homeowners, and municipalities who must meet increasingly strict environmental and fire safety regulations.
Wes Bolsen, CEO of CitroTech, emphasized that the company is leading a major shift away from pressure-treated wood products that may compromise structural performance and create environmental and health concerns. He explained that with the increasing threat of wildfires worldwide, there is an urgent need for stronger, safer, and more sustainable fire protection solutions. According to him, this new technology establishes a higher standard by delivering fire resistance that becomes part of the wood itself, supporting stronger and more resilient infrastructure.
Michael Lefenfeld, President and CEO of Hexion, also highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating that the wood products industry is ready for a new benchmark in fire protection. He noted that Hexion’s goal is to bring high-value and differentiated technologies into the building and construction market at commercial scale. By combining CitroTech’s innovative chemistry with Hexion’s manufacturing strength and global market reach, the companies can help customers integrate fire performance directly into production more efficiently and reliably.
The newly formed Delaware-based joint venture will focus on developing and expanding CitroTech’s intellectual property while accelerating manufacturing and product sales. Hexion has already committed financial support for commercialization, demonstrating strong confidence in the technology and its potential to raise the standard of fire protection across the industry.
To guide the venture’s strategy and governance, CitroTech CEO Wes Bolsen and Hexion CEO Michael Lefenfeld will serve on a three-member board, ensuring strong leadership and a shared vision for the future of safer and more sustainable wood products.
