February 18, 2026 14:13

NextChem (Maire) will license its NX Conser Man and NX Conser Duetto technologies for the integrated production of two key intermediates for bioplastics—dimethyl succinate (DMS) and 1,4-butanediol (BDO)—to a major Chinese chemical group, whose name has not been disclosed.

BDO and DMS will be used to manufacture polybutylene succinate (PBS) and other specialty polymers, supporting the shift toward biobased and circular materials. 
Subsequent tenders for catalyst and proprietary equipment supply are expected.

PBS is a biodegradable linear polyester produced through the esterification and polycondensation of succinic acid with 1,4-butanediol. Depending on whether the starting materials are petrochemical-based or derived from renewable resources, the biopolymer can be classified as fossil-based or biobased.

The NX Conser Man process is dedicated to the production of maleic anhydride, which is then converted—through NX Conser Duetto technology—into BDO and DMS within a single integrated process.

“This result demonstrates the market’s growing confidence in our innovative approach, based on combining complementary technologies and advanced process integration, capable of delivering competitive advantages in terms of cost, energy efficiency and product quality,” said Fabio Fritelli, Managing Director of NextChem (pictured). “It is a milestone that further strengthens our technological excellence and competitiveness in the bioplastics sector in a strategically important industrial market such as China.”

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