Avantium N.V., a firm that works on renewable and circular polymer materials, has teamed up with Amcor Rigid Packaging USA, LLC, a key player in responsible packaging solutions. These companies are working together to create and study Avantium’s plant-based polymer, PEF, known as Releaf.This cutting-edge polymer is intended for the creation of rigid containers that can accommodate a variety of products, such as food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and personal care items.
Through this collaboration, Amcor has entered into a long-term agreement to secure a portion of Avantium’s future PEF production. This agreement gives Amcor first access to PEF supplies from Avantium’s upcoming licensee network, representing an important step in the field of sustainable packaging innovation.
Promoting Progress in Eco-Friendly Polymers
Avantium has created a new method to make FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid), the key component of PEF (polyethylene furanoate). The company’s first commercial FDCA production facility, located in Delfzijl, the Netherlands, is currently under construction. This facility will play a key role in Avantium’s strategy of providing both direct sales and technology licensing to industrial partners.
Releaf, Avantium’s 100% plant-based polymer, offers numerous advantages:
Recyclability: It can be recycled in existing PET recycling systems and complies with the Critical Guidance Protocol of the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR).
Extended Shelf Life: Its barrier properties help preserve food and beverages for longer periods.
Material Use: Its strong mechanical properties lessen needed material.
Energy Savings: Lower heating means less energy use.
Environmentally Friendly: With a smaller carbon footprint, Releaf helps Amcor reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
A Move Towards a Greener Tomorrow
Speaking about the partnership, Terry Patcheak, Amcor’s Vice President of Research & Development and Program Management Excellence, said: “This partnership between Amcor and Avantium represents a significant step forward in advancing responsible packaging solutions. It combines Amcor’s expertise in innovative packaging with Avantium’s renewable and circular polymer Relief. This partnership enhances our efforts to offer customers innovative packaging that is better for products, people, and the planet.”
This collaboration demonstrates the growing need for sustainable solutions in packaging and reflects the shared commitment of both companies to drive innovation in this field.
Bineke Posthumus, Avantium’s Commercial Director, added: “This collaboration with Amcor underscores the increasing demand for Relief in sustainable packaging solutions and supports our strategy for licensing our FDCA technology. We are excited to work with Amcor to bring Relief to the market, providing consumers with high-performance, eco-friendly packaging solutions.”
Conclusion
The partnership between Avantium and Amcor is a major milestone in the quest for sustainable packaging. By combining Amcor’s expertise in packaging solutions with Avantium’s innovative, plant-based polymer technology, they are poised to revolutionize the industry. Releaf’s impressive eco-friendly features make it a key player in advancing a circular economy and addressing consumer and environmental needs. Together, Avantium and Amcor are paving the way for a more sustainable future in the packaging world.
