Avantium and SCGC to pilot sustainable PLGA polyester production

Avantium N.V., a leading company in renewable and circular polymer materials, has announced an extended partnership with SCG Chemicals Public Company Limited (SCGC), a prominent chemical innovator in Asia. The two companies have signed a multi-year agreement to pilot the production of PLGA (polylactic-co-glycolic acid), marking a key step towards the development and commercialization of sustainable materials.

Avantium’s Volta Technology uses electrochemical processes to transform CO2 into valuable products, including glycolic acid, which, when combined with lactic acid, can create PLGA polyester. This biodegradable and recyclable polyester offers excellent strength and barrier properties, making it a sustainable alternative to fossil-based polyesters.

Over the past year, Avantium and SCGC have focused on optimizing PLGA formulations for large-scale applications, ensuring improved recyclability, barrier performance, and reduced environmental impact. The renewed collaboration between SCGC and Avantium includes a multi-year effort to pilot PLGA production using CO2 as a raw material.

As part of the agreement, Avantium has granted SCGC the option to negotiate a license for using its Volta Technology in Southeast Asia, including PLGA production. This partnership seeks to accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies in the region, promoting a circular economy. Avantium and SCGC are also inviting other industry partners to join this initiative and explore PLGA’s potential applications.