TAGS: Biobased Solutions Additives for Packaging
Braskem and Denmark-based Haldor Topsoe have announced that they achieved their first-ever demo-scale production of biobased monoethylene glycol (MEG). As a result of the collaboration between the two companies, the MOSAIKT technology development has been progressing according to schedule at the demonstration unit located in Lyngby, Denmark.
Converting Sugar into Renewable MEG
The demonstration unit was started up in 2019 with the primary goal to demonstrate all key design features of the pioneering technology that transforms sugar into renewable MEG. Since then, the remaining process units of the plant have been built and put into operation, and the production process has been optimized.
MEG is a raw material for PET (polyethylene terephthalate), which has numerous applications and is an essential feedstock in sectors such as textiles and packaging, especially beverage bottles. Currently, MEG is predominantly made from fossil-based feedstocks, such as naphtha, gas, or coal. The global MEG market represents a value of approximately US$ 25 billion.
The technology will also co-produce, in a lower quantity, monopropylene glycol (MPG), which has a wide variety of applications ranging from unsaturated polyester resins (UPR), commonly used in construction materials, to cosmetic products.
Next Phase will Provide Samples to Partners for Testing
The next phase will involve providing samples to strategic partners for testing and validation. The results of the demonstration plant operations and the validation of products will be essential for the decision to deploy the technology on a commercial scale.
The development of bio-MEG is strategic to Braskem. "This first-ever production of MOSAIKT-MEG is a major step forward in our project and underlines Braskem's commitment to the Circular Economy through renewable chemicals. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the PET market. That's why we are increasingly closer to start building this new value chain, so we can deliver the sustainable solution that society is looking for", says Gustavo Sergi, executive officer of Renewable Chemicals and Specialties at Braskem.
Source: Braskem