Dutch research and technology company Avantium has developed a patented technology YXY to produce 100% biobased PEF bottles. Currently, PET is the most widely used oil-based polyester.

Avantium announced an agreement with the Coca-Cola company to further co-develop the YXY technology for producing PEF bottles. Avantium's CEO Tom van Aken said ‘Our YXY solution for the packaging industry creates a new biobased plastic with exceptional functional properties at a competitive price. We believe it is economically viable and has a significantly reduced environmental footprint. We have already made bottles with exceptional barrier and thermal properties and our production process fits well with existing supply chains. We plan to initiate commercial production of PEF in about three to four years.’

PEF can be derived from any biomass feedstock containing carbohydrates, such as sugarcane, agricultural residues, plants and grains. Using YXY as a fast and efficient chemical-catalytic technology, these carbohydrates can be converted into a wide variety of bioplastics.

Current process economic estimates indicate that PEF will be a viable alternative to petroleum-based PET. Says Tom van Aken ‘PEF is 100% biobased and when commercialised will be fully recyclable. We believe that PEF fulfills key criteria to become a next generation biobased plastic for food, beverages and other applications. We are very excited about the co-development phase we are entering with the Coca-Cola company to continue the development of PEF and make this new material ready for mass production and recycling. Their leadership and experience in commercialising biobased materials make them a great partner to work with as we commercialise this exciting new material’.