Avantium opens bio-based FDCA plant in the Netherlands

Dutch renewable energy specialist Avantium has officially opened its flagship FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid) plant in Delfzijl, the Netherlands. Plans for what is said to be the world’s first commercial-scale production plant for FDCA were first announced in December 2021.

Avantium will produce 5,000 tonnes of FDCA at the plant, a building block for the 100% plant-based circular plastic PEF (polyethylene furanoate), known under the Releaf brand. The company’s material is used in a wide range of applications, including bottles, packaging, films and textiles.

“Our new FDCA plant embodies our commitment to innovation and sustainability,” said Tom van Aken, CEO of Avantium. “We are excited to be the first to produce Releaf, a material that can replace traditional petroleum-based plastics. This plant is a testament not only to our technological advancement, but also to our commitment to creating long-term, sustainable value for all our stakeholders.”