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ADM and DuPont have developed that the companies described as breakthough in producing a renewable material that can be used in plastic bottles and other packaging. The next step is a pilot plant.
The new FDME technology is a more efficient and simple process than traditional conversion approaches and results in higher yields, lower energy usage and lower capital expenditures, a joint release stated. The process uses fructose or fruit sugar commonly derived from corn.
“This molecule is a game-changing platform technology. It will enable cost-efficient production of a variety of 100 percent renewable, high-performance chemicals and polymers with applications across a broad range of industries,” said Simon Herriot, global business director for biomaterials at DuPont. “ADM is an agribusiness powerhouse with strong technology development capabilities. They are the ideal partner with which to develop this new, renewable supply chain for FDME.”
One of the first polymers under development utilizing FDME is polytrimethylene furandicarboxylate (PTF) from DuPont. PTF is a renewable and recyclable polymer that, when used to make bottles and other beverage packages, substantially improves gas-barrier properties compared to other polyesters.
This makes PTF an option for customers in the beverage packaging industry looking to improve the shelf life of their products the release stated.
“We are excited about the potential FDME has to help our customers reach new markets and develop better-performing products, all made from sustainable, bio-based starting materials,” said Kevin Moore, president, renewable chemicals at ADM. “With their strong leadership in the biomaterials industry, DuPont is a great partner that can help us bring this product to market for our customers.”
ADM and DuPont are taking the initial step in the process of bringing FDME to market by moving forward on the scale-up phase of the project. The two companies are planning to build an integrated 60 ton-per-year demonstration plant in Decatur, Ill., which will provide potential customers with sufficient product quantities for testing and research.
Archer Daniels Midland Company is one of the world’s largest agricultural processors.
DuPont Industrial Biosciences works with customers across a wide range of industries to improve products and make processes more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
