UPM Biorefinery Progress in Leuna
- The biorefinery in Leuna will start by the end of 2023.
- It will produce BioMEG for PET bottles, packaging, textiles, and coolants.
- BioMPG will be used in cleaning agents, deicing fluids, fragrances, and cosmetics.
- Lignin-based fillers will replace carbon black and silica in rubber products.
Biorefinery Overview
The new biorefinery in Leuna, Germany, is set to become operational by the end of 2023. It will convert wood into next-generation biochemicals, including sustainable glycols and lignin-based renewable functional fillers. Construction began in 2020, and the project is progressing with the completion of the pipe rack and ongoing work on the fundaments and buildings.
BioMEG Production
The biorefinery will produce renewable Bio-Monoethylene Glycol (BioMEG), which will serve as a base material for various industrial products and consumer goods. These include PET bottles, packaging materials, polyester textiles, and engine and battery coolants.
BioMPG Applications
Renewable Bio-Monopropylene Glycol (BioMPG) will also be produced, ready for conversion into cleaning agents, deicing fluids, fragrances, and cosmetics. Both BioMEG and BioMPG can be fully integrated into existing production and recycling processes, aiding the transformation towards renewable circularity in the chemicals value chain.
Lignin-Based Fillers
The biorefinery will also produce lignin-based Renewable Functional Fillers (RFF), a sustainable alternative to carbon black and precipitated silica. These fillers will be used in various rubber applications, such as tires, hoses, and rubber floorings.