A new $300 million bio-based chemical plant in Eddyville, Iowa, is turning locally grown corn into QIRA®—a renewable alternative to petroleum-based 1,4-butanediol used in everything from clothing to cars. Developed by Qore, a joint venture between Cargill and HELM, the plant is the first of its kind globally and will produce 66,000 metric tons annually. With major brands like LYCRA and BASF already on board, the innovation promises new markets and stability for Iowa corn farmers.
