Uhde Inventa-Fischer, Thyssenkrupp Uhde India join forces to establish first large-scale biopolymer plant in MENA region using corn as primary feedstock; goal is to sustainably produce a range of PLA grades for use in packaging, textiles, hygiene supplies

• First large-scale biopolymer plant with Uhde Inventa-Fischer technology in the MENA region
• Fully integrated process for production of polylactic acid from 100% renewable feedstock

thyssenkrupp Uhde has secured a Basic Engineering Package (BEP) and Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) package for the establishment of a biopolymer plant on the Arabian Peninsula. The plant is intended to produce an industrial large-scale volume of polylactic acid (PLA) polymer, utilizing lactic acid from corn as the primary feedstock. While polymer specialist Uhde Inventa-Fischer will perform the BEP for the PLA production based on its proprietary state-of-the-art technology, its sister company thyssenkrupp Uhde India will perform the FEED which covers the complete production complex including associated offsite and utilities.

The design of the biopolymer plant focuses on stringently optimized feedstock utilization during all stages: from starch conversion to lactic acid production, and finally polylactic acid production. An integral aspect of this project is the plant’s ability to sustainably produce a range of PLA grades, addressing the diverse requirements of various industries such as packaging, textiles, and hygiene supplies.

“Replacing fossil feedstocks with renewable ones can minimize the ecological impact of entire value chains,” stated Dr. Cord Landsmann, CEO thyssenkrupp Uhde. “This project is another proof that we can significantly contribute to a more sustainable production of much-needed materials for global key industries.”

Harald Kroll, CEO Gulf Biopolymers Industries: “We are proud to announce the establishment of the first large biopolymer plant in the MENA region. This project is a milestone for the reduction of fossil-based plastics, and advancing the adoption of environmentally friendly PLA polymers.”

Derived from lactic acid, PLA stands out as a genuine biopolymer. It is produced from renewable biomass sources, and it is also biodegradable. This positions PLA as a sustainable alternative to conventional fossil-based plastics, offering a pragmatic solution for reducing the environmental footprint associated with plastic production and consumption.

About Gulf Biopolymers Industries Ltd. (GBI)

GBI are experts in the manufacture of PLA biopolymers for the consumer packaging and textiles industries. We are champions of a green tomorrow, enabling our clients, and their customers, to switch from fossil-based plastics to our 100% renewable and 100% recyclable biodegradable polymers. Together we are actively contributing to decarbonization, advancing the circular economy, and creating a less polluted future for our planet. Further details to be announced later.

About thyssenkrupp Uhde

thyssenkrupp Uhde combines unique technological expertise and decades of global experience in the engineering, procurement, construction, and service of chemical plants. We develop innovative processes and products for a more sustainable future, and thus contribute to the long-term success of our customers in almost all areas of the chemical industry. Our portfolio includes leading technologies for producing base chemicals, fertilizers and polymers as well as complete value chains for green hydrogen and sustainable chemicals.

Source

tyssenkrupp Uhde, press release, 2023-12-01.

Supplier

Gulf Biopolymers Industries Ltd. (GBI)
ThyssenKrupp Uhde
Uhde Inventa-Fischer

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