Michelin and Axens in exclusive talks to commercialize 5‑HMF
- Michelin ResiCare and Axens entered exclusive discussions to partner on industrializing 5‑HMF.
- A first production unit (~3,000 t/yr) will be operated by Michelin ResiCare in Péage‑de‑Roussillon, with start‑up scheduled for early 2027.
- Axens would provide licensing, engineering and global deployment expertise to scale the technology.
- 5‑HMF, developed with IFPEN and supported by ADEME and the Circular Bio‑based Europe JU, is a bio‑based building block for resins, polymers (including PEF), solvents and intermediates.
Partnership and objective
Michelin ResiCare and Axens have entered exclusive discussions to form a strategic partnership to accelerate industrialization and commercialization of 5‑hydroxymethylfurfural (5‑HMF), a bio‑based molecule developed with IFP Energies Nouvelles (IFPEN). The collaboration aims to speed large‑scale deployment of a renewable solution to help decarbonize the chemicals and materials industries.
Technology and applications
5‑HMF is presented as a bio‑based, non‑toxic, versatile platform molecule for resins, adhesives, bio‑based polymers and other materials. It can replace certain fossil‑derived compounds such as formaldehyde and serves as a precursor to polyethylene furanoate (PEF), an alternative to PET for packaging, bottles and textile fibers. The molecule also has potential across solvents, intermediates and specialty chemicals.
Industrial rollout and timeline
The process is the outcome of a joint R&D programme by Michelin ResiCare and IFPEN, supported by ADEME in France and the Circular Bio‑based Europe Joint Undertaking. Michelin ResiCare will operate the first production unit in Péage‑de‑Roussillon with a capacity of approximately 3,000 tonnes per year, scheduled to start up in early 2027. Axens would contribute licensing and engineering expertise to support global deployment of the technology.
Source: Axens