Braskem project to evaluate bio-based polypropylene

© Shutterstock

Braskem, the largest polyolefins producer in the Americas, recently announced a project to evaluate producing carbon negative bio-based polypropylene (PP) in the United States.

The United States is the world’s largest ethanol industry producer. Braskem will use its proprietary technology to convert bioethanol into physically segregated bio-based polypropylene that would have the same technical properties and recyclability as traditional PP but with a negative carbon footprint. Bio-based PP would help customers transition to sustainability.

The company is exploring partnership opportunities with brand owners, clients, and suppliers.

“Building on our core technology and market leadership, we are actively evaluating a project to produce the world’s first bio-based polypropylene on an industrial scale to support our ambitious sustainability objectives and deliver tangible solutions to our clients,” Mark Nikolich, Braskem America CEO, said. “As an established leader in the innovation and production of bio-based materials, we have seen the demand for Braskem’s bio-based materials grow significantly since our initial product launches. This new U.S.-based project would not only serve a growing market for sustainable solutions but also reduce Braskem’s reliance on fossil feedstock.”

Braskem America, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Braskem S.A., is headquartered in Philadelphia and has an Innovation and Technology Center in Pittsburgh.