Avantium N.V., a leading company in renewable and circular polymer materials, announced a partnership with the Bottle Collective. The collaboration aims to develop fiber bottles using Dry Molded Fiber (DMF) technology. Avantium will supply its plant-based polymer, PEF (polyethylene furanoate), for these bottles. PEF improves barrier properties and enhances sustainability.
The Bottle Collective was launched in 2023 by PA Consulting and PulPac. PulPac developed the Dry Molded Fiber process, which uses renewable pulp and cellulose. This technology produces fiber-based packaging with lower CO2 emissions and almost no water use. It is considered more environmentally friendly than traditional plastic and wet molding techniques.
In 2024, LogoPlaste, a provider of sustainable rigid packaging solutions, joined the group. The company specializes in injection molding and blowing. Several global brands, including Diageo, Opella, and Haleon, have also become members. The collective has already developed its first prototypes, demonstrating the technology’s potential.
Avantium’s role is to supply PEF for injection molding and blowing liners used in fiber bottles. PEF is a 100% plant-based, fully recyclable polymer with superior barrier properties. It helps preserve the taste and carbonation of beverages, leading to longer shelf life. Additionally, PEF’s higher mechanical strength allows for thinner packaging, reducing material use and waste.
PA Consulting is working to scale up the Dry Molded Fiber technology and bring the fiber bottles to global markets. Keith Thornley, the firm’s commercial lead for the project, stated that Avantium’s involvement aligns with efforts to reduce the environmental footprint of packaging.
Paulo Correia, Chief Technology Officer at Logoplaste, emphasized PEF’s sustainability and high-performance qualities. Bineke Posthumus, Avantium’s Director of Business Development, said the partnership could accelerate the development of innovative fiber bottles. Overall, the group aims to promote sustainable, high-performance packaging solutions worldwide.
