Stora Enso and Kolon Partner on Bio-Based Materials

21 March 2023

Key highlights

Stora Enso's FuraCore® converts fructose into FDCA via HMF.
FDCA is key for bio-based plastics like PEF, useful in packaging and technical films.
Kolon Industries specializes in polyester and phenolic resin development.
Kolon has over fifty years of experience in polyester polymerization.

Joint Development Agreement

Stora Enso and Kolon Industries have signed a Joint Development Agreement to develop and industrialize bio-based polyesters and renewable binder resin formulations. These materials have potential applications in packaging, car tire reinforcements, and high-value products like electronics, panels, and displays.

Technological Collaboration

The collaboration will leverage Stora Enso's FuraCore® technology, which converts fructose into FDCA (Furandicarboxylic acid) via HMF (5-hydroxymethylfurfural). Stora Enso's expertise in the packaging industry will be combined with Kolon Industries' proficiency in polyester and phenolic resin development and manufacturing.

Key Chemical Substances

FDCA is an organic compound crucial for creating bio-based plastics such as PEF (polyethylene furanoate), which is promising for packaging and technical films due to its barrier properties. HMF, the precursor to FDCA in the FuraCore® process, enhances the renewability and performance of certain resin formulations.

Kolon Industries' Expertise

Kolon Industries, a Korean chemical and materials company, has over fifty years of experience in polyester polymerization and application technology, including fiber and film. The company focuses on renewable polymers, including those derived from natural raw materials.