Avantium and SCGC advance development of PLGA polyester

Avantium NV, a leading renewable and circular polymer materials company, has strengthened its collaboration with SCG Chemicals Public Company Limited (SCGC). The two companies have signed a multi-year collaboration agreement to pilot the production of PLGA (polylactic-co-glycolic acid). This collaboration marks an important milestone in the development and commercialization of sustainable materials.

PLGA is a biodegradable, recyclable polyester that offers excellent barrier and mechanical properties, making it an excellent sustainable alternative to traditional fossil-based polyesters. Building on the initial success of the collaboration, Avantium and SCGC have spent the past year further exploring the properties of PLGA to perfect its formulation for large-scale polymer applications, focusing on barrier properties, recyclability and environmental impact.

SCGC and Avantium have now committed to a multi-year collaboration to pilot the production of PLGA from CO2 feedstock. Under the agreement, SCGC will support all stages of the technology development. In addition, SCGC will work with Avantium to develop a variety of PLGA applications with the goal of bringing these sustainable solutions to market.

As part of this collaboration, Avantium has granted SCGC an option to negotiate a licensing agreement in Southeast Asia for the use of its Volta technology, including PLGA production. This strategic collaboration is expected to accelerate the application of Avantium's innovative technology in the region, promote the development of sustainable materials and contribute to the circular economy.

Dr. Suracha Udomsak, Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer of SCGC, commented: "SCGC is committed to advancing green innovation to meet the low carbon challenge. Our goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2030. SCGC evaluated PLGA samples together with Avantium and we were impressed by the sustainability and performance characteristics of this innovative material. We look forward to further advancing PLGA production with Avantium in the coming years."

Gert-Jan Gruter, Chief Technology Officer of Avantium, commented: "We are very excited to work with SCGC on this groundbreaking initiative. This collaboration not only highlights the potential of our Volta technology, but also strengthens our shared commitment to sustainability and innovation. By deepening our collaboration with SCGC, a cornerstone investor in Avantium through SENFI Ventures and a partner in our FDCA and PEF technologies, we aim to have a significant impact on the global materials market."