Michelin, IFPEN, Axens Advance BioButterfly™: Biobased Butadiene from Bioethanol
- BioButterfly™ uses bioethanol to produce biobased butadiene, confirmed by a 2023 industrial demonstrator.
- The project successfully synthesized BR and SBR rubber, meeting high-quality industrial specifications.
- R&D phase to complete soon, with technology homologation by mid-2026 for global commercialization.
- Supported by ADEME, Région Nouvelle Aquitaine, and Bordeaux Metropole, the project aims for a sustainable elastomer industry.
Project Overview
The BioButterfly™ project, a collaboration between Michelin, IFPEN, and Axens, focuses on producing biobased butadiene from bioethanol. Supported by ADEME, Région Nouvelle Aquitaine, and Bordeaux Metropole, the project aims to advance sustainable synthetic rubber production.
Technological Advancements
In July 2023, an industrial demonstrator in Bassens confirmed the robustness of the BioButterfly™ process, utilizing both first and second-generation bioethanol. This flexibility ensures a 100% bio-sourced origin for the biobased butadiene.
Industrial Applications
The biobased butadiene has been successfully used to synthesize butadiene rubber (BR) and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), meeting stringent polymer grade specifications. This validates its application in high-quality industrial uses, particularly in the tire sector.
Commercialization Timeline
The R&D phase is nearing completion, with technology homologation expected by mid-2026. This milestone will enable global commercialization, marking a significant step towards a sustainable elastomer industry.
Source: Axens