- The demonstration plant in Chemie Park Delfzijl has an annual capacity of 10 tons.
- The plant produces plant-based MEG and MPG from industrial sugars.
- Commercial-scale production is aimed for start-up in 2024.
- The current MEG market is valued at approximately $25 billion.
Introduction
Avantium has inaugurated its plant-based MEG (mono-ethylene glycol) demonstration plant in Chemie Park Delfzijl, the Netherlands. This facility aims to reduce reliance on fossil resources by producing MEG from plant-based sources.
Significance
The opening marks a significant milestone in the commercialization of plant-based MEG, a key ingredient in polyesters used in textiles and packaging. Currently, 99% of MEG is derived from fossil resources, a market valued at approximately $25 billion. The plant-based MEG market is expected to grow rapidly, offering a sustainable alternative.
Production Capacity
The demonstration plant has an industrially relevant capacity of 10 tons annually. It will also produce plant-based MPG (mono-propylene glycol), used in industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food flavoring, and deicing.
Technological Advancements
Avantium's Ray Technology™ covers all process steps in converting industrial sugars to glycols, enabling the production of MEG and MPG samples representative of commercial-scale plants. This technology is part of Avantium's portfolio, which includes YXY® Technology and Dawn Technology™.
Future Plans
The demonstration plant is a precursor to a commercial flagship plant, targeted for start-up in 2024. Avantium is already in commercial discussions with partners interested in the economic opportunities presented by Ray Technology™. These include feedstock providers, chemical companies, and consumer brands seeking plant-based solutions for textiles and packaging.
