September 19, 2025 13:16

Avantium expects to introduce the first commercial batches of polyethylene furanoate (PEF) in the first quarter of 2026, once the Delfzijl plant in the Netherlands is fully completed.

“That will be the moment when our 100% plant-based and circular material PEF, branded as Releaf, starts to reach consumers and becomes a commercial reality,” said Avantium CEO Tom van Aken.

Production of the monomer (MMF) began in autumn (see article), while the final units of the flagship plant for FDCA are now entering the start-up phase.

The announcement coincides with the successful completion of an €84.8 million capital increase, consisting of a fully subscribed and underwritten rights issue worth €65.4 million and an additional placement of €19.4 million, including a €15 million contribution from the state of the Netherlands, represented by the Ministry of Climate Policy and Green Growth.

“We are very pleased with this €84.8 million equity raise, which exceeded our initial expectations,” said van Aken. “This outcome reflects the confidence in Avantium’s strategy and the shared commitment to accelerate the transition to sustainable materials and pursue the large market potential of FDCA and PEF.”

Releaf PEF, in many respects similar to PET, is derived from 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) obtained from renewable, plant-based sources. It features strong barrier performance, good mechanical properties and can be processed at lower temperatures than PET, resulting in energy savings. While not biodegradable at end of life, its use of renewable raw materials reduces the carbon footprint of the polymer and the packaging produced with it.

Ahead of full-scale commercial production, Avantium has already signed several major supply agreements, most recently with Biovox and Amcor (see article).

© Polimerica -  Reproduction prohibited, all rights reserved