Danone Research and Avantium have entered into a joint development agreement for the development of PEF bottles for Danone.
Avantium’s CEO Tom van Aken, said: “The agreement with Danone Research is a fantastic step forward on our path to commercialise PEF bottles. “Danone Research is at the forefront in contributing to the development of next generation bio-based plastic bottle. Our YXY solution for the packaging industry creates a new bio-sourced material delivering superior functional properties versus conventional PET technology (for example light weighting potential, barrier and thermal properties).
“We believe that the process economics and carbon footprint of PEF make it a suitable PET alternative. A recent study done by the Copernicus Institute at Utrecht University, showed that PEF has a 50-60% lower carbon footprint than oil-based PET.
“Finalising the LCA study is part of the joint development agreement. Avantium is currently validating the use of existing supply and recycling chains, enabling a full transition to bio-based PEF bottles in three to five years from now.”
Van Aken added: “Based on the YXY technology, the Avantium and Danone Research joint objective is to contribute to the emergence of a new renewable material generation which will not be in direct competition with food.
“YXY is used as a fast and efficient chemical-catalytic technology to convert carbohydrates produced from plants, grains, energy crops, lignocellulosic matter, waste streams, waste paper or agricultural residues, into a wide variety of bio-based polymers. Based on ongoing R&D programs, Avantium will also continue to develop PEF from renewable feedstock not competing with food.”
Source: Avantium
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