Avantium has signed a joint development agreement with Amcor Rigid Packaging. This partnership aims to use Avantium’s plant-based polymer PEF, branded as releaf®, in rigid containers for various products.
The agreement includes a multi-year capacity reservation for PEF from Avantium’s upcoming industrial-scale facility. Amcor will have preferred access to PEF volumes produced through Avantium’s licensee network.
Avantium produces FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid), the building block for PEF. The company is starting up the world’s first commercial FDCA plant in Delfzijl, the Netherlands.
This FDCA Flagship Plant will enhance Avantium’s licensing strategy. It will enable the company to sell FDCA and PEF directly while providing technology licenses to partners. Amcor’s capacity reservation indicates sufficient commercial demand for this initiative.
Releaf® is a 100% plant-based polymer that can be recycled through existing PET recycling streams. It adheres to the Critical Guidance Protocol from the Association of Plastic Recyclers, ensuring recyclability in packaging design.
Releaf® offers superior barrier properties, extending the shelf life of food and beverages. It has higher mechanical strength, reducing material use, and lower processing temperatures, cutting energy consumption.
The polymer’s lower carbon footprint aligns with Amcor’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Terry Patcheak, Amcor’s vice president, noted the partnership advances responsible packaging solutions.
Bineke Posthumus, Commercial Director of Avantium Renewable Polymers, highlighted the demand for releaf® in sustainable packaging. The collaboration aims to bring high-performance, eco-friendly packaging solutions to the market.
