Avantium has developed a technology to convert plant-based sugars into FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid), the building block of PEF (polyethylene furanoate): a plant-based, fully recyclable polymer with superior performance. FDCA is polymerised with plant-based mono-ethylene glycol (MEG) to make a 100% plant-based PEF polymer. In December 2021, Avantium has taken a positive investment decision concerning the construction of the world’s first FDCA Flagship Plant in Delfzijl (The Netherlands), with construction planned to be completed by the end of 2023 and the aim to be operational in 2024. This will be the world’s first commercial FDCA facility and will have a targeted production capacity of 5,000 tonnes per annum. FDCA is the key building block for the 100% plant-based, recyclable polymer PEF.

PEF has enhanced barrier, mechanical and thermal properties compared to today’s widely used
petroleum-based polymers. The barrier properties of PEF, which are ~10x better for O₂, ~15x better
for CO₂ and ~2.5x better for water than PET, represent a revolutionary opportunity compared with traditional packaging solutions regarding performance, price, and sustainability when produced at scale. The improved barrier properties lead to a longer shelf life of packaged products. PEF also offers higher mechanical strength, which means that thinner PEF packaging can be produced and fewer resources are required.
In terms of thermal properties, PEF has superior ability to withstand heat and can be processed at lower temperatures. PEF has enhanced mechanical stiffness and allows for increasing shaping possibilities.