Wednesday 10 May 2023 from 13:30-15:00 CET
Each presentation 30 Min + 15 Min discussion
Title: Technologies, Markets and Trends for Circular, bio-based and CO2-based Chemicals and Polymers
Moderation: Pauline Ruiz and Pia Skoczinski (nova-Institute)

 

Challenges Towards a Circular Plastics Economy from a Chemical Perspective by Evelien Maaskant (WUR)
For a successful transition towards a circular plastics economy it is crucial that unavoidable material losses during plastic recycling are compensated by renewable materials. The current market for biobased thermoplastic polymers is growing and new materials are being developed. Despite being very promising, the development of biobased/renewable polymers give rise to new challenges. This presentation will highlight some of the main challenges that are currently faced from a chemical perspective, and will provide insights in research performed by Wageningen Food & Biobased Research on how to overcome them. 

 

Latest Market Data and Trends on Bio-based and CO2-based Building Blocks and Polymers Worldwide by Pauline Ruiz and Pia Skoczinski (nova-Institute)
Bio-based polymers are estimated to grow at a CAGR of 14 % from 2022 to 2027. Some examples: Bio-based epoxy resin production is on the rise, PTT regained attractiveness after several years of constant capacities and PE and PP made from bio‑based naphtha are being further established with growing volumes. Increased capacities for PLA are ongoing, after being sold out in 2019. Current and future expansions for bio‑based polyamides as well as PHAs are on the horizon. And also, bio-based PET is getting back in the game.
Additionally, the use of CO2 as chemical feedstock for building blocks and polymers has been intensively diversified. Several successfully implemented technologies used at commercial level are in place and many more at the laboratory and pilot phase.  Besides the long-established use of CO2 for the synthesis of polycarbonates, also polyurethanes are based on it. The most notable biotechnological conversion pathway of a syngas produces ethanol at commercial scale. Additionally, high interest is also observed in CO2-based methanol and in CO2-based hydrocarbons, which can be used for fuel, chemical and polymers applications. A current total production capacity of these CO2-based products of ca. 1.3 Mt/a in 2022 is observed and a strong increase in capacity is expected by 2027.