EU initiatives working on furan-based polymers

Modern society relies on a huge quantity of polymeric materials. However, today, these materials are still almost exclusively based on fossil-resources and evolution to a more sustainable model of development is required. In this perspective, biomass and, in particular carbohydrates from, for example, low value biomass wastes, are outstanding starting feedstocks for the production of added-value chemicals and products. One of such is 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA). Nevertheless, efforts on FDCA-based products development have been scattered in individual scientific activities, and moreover joint efforts between Academy and Industry have also been rare, hampering their successful industrialisation and market introduction. Precisely, this Action will master the scattered pan-European individual efforts to design innovative routes to FDCA-based chemicals and polymeric materials towards lab-to-industry-to-market, by gathering, for the first time, a real critical mass along the complete value-chain, including several experts in FDCA synthesis, polymer science and general materials developing and chemical-physics; together with producer, manufacture and recycling industrial stakeholders; LCA and techno-economic viability experts. The Action will accomplish these targets by pursuing two-parallel strategies. Firstly, supporting an ‘holistic vision’ in which FDCA synthetic routes, polymers & polymeric materials development, characterisation, as well as key technical, economic, environmental and social factors are considered together, aiming at supporting and identifying solutions to successful market introduction. Secondly, using intersectorial knowledge, supported by dissemination and networking tools to provide an open platform for collaboration and a common vision addressing research, human resources qualification and industrial implementation.

To mitigate environmental harm and enhance recycling efficiency while reducing costs, the development of innovative value chains and waste management systems is imperative. The EU-funded ELLIPSE project is dedicated to this objective by proposing a groundbreaking waste stream that integrates waste generated from slaughterhouses and paper and pulp sludge processes. This waste would be used in the production of PHAs, benefiting both the agricultural and packaging sectors. Consequently, this initiative would curtail waste accumulation in landfills, minimise pollution, and bolster recycling efforts. Additionally, it would contribute to the preservation of resources and generate revenue for associated industries. Moreover, the project relies on locally available and renewable feedstocks, enabling the processing of substantial amounts of waste.

ROBUSTOO aims to strengthen Europe’s position in industrial biotechnology by advancing bio-based chemical and material production. Building on past EU projects, it will demonstrate large-scale production and optimization of three key oxidative enzymes—UPOs, laccases, and HMFOs—tailored for industrial needs. Using advanced bioprospecting, microbial engineering, and enzyme development, the consortium will optimize and pilot bio-transformations, enabling biotech SMEs and research centers to convert industrial lignins into bio-based resins, produce specialty chemicals through targeted oxygenation, and synthesize 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid sustainably. These innovations support Europe’s green transition and circular economy goals.

The EU-funded REBIOLUTION project is dedicated to developing and introducing groundbreaking, fully bio-based and biodegradable polyester blends. These innovative materials can be used in various sectors. The adoption of these alternative polyester blends could play a crucial role in replacing plastic in applications such as food packaging and agricultural mulch film. By reducing plastic usage and waste, the project aims to make substantial contributions towards mitigating the environmental damage caused by plastic.

The PEFerence project will establish a globally first-of-a-kind, industrial scale (5 000 tonnes/year), cost-effective FDCA (diacid) biorefinery flagship plant producing bio-based chemicals and materials (bottles, films, Lego Bricks, polyurethanes) using also existing facilities in industrial symbiosis. The consortium aims to replace a significant part of fossil based polyesters (such as PET), but also technologically superior packaging materials like glass and aluminum with 100 % bio-based polyesters (such as PEF). The unique properties of PEF (excellent barrier and strength) make it a material that can be applied in areas where PET is less suitable. The initial market focus will be on high value applications such as replacement of multilayer packaging, aluminum cans and small size PET bottles where PEF brings most value. On the longer term, when FDCA is produced at large scale and technology is further matured, FDCA based polyesters are expected to penetrate further into markets which allow smaller or no price premium.

The THERMOFIRE project aims to be a pioneer in this field, consequently, the flame retardancy of the 100% bio-based composites will be deeply developed and investigated. Fire retardancy is a key property of materials used for applications in the automotive, aerospace and textile sectors due to the need to minimize fire risk and meet safety requirements. In the THERMOFIRE project up to 100% bio-based polymers will be reinforced with different natural fibers (e.g. regenerated cellulose from wood and commercial flax) and bio-based flame retardants aiming at giving excellent flame retardancy to the final bio-based thermoplastic (TP) composites. The innovation of THERMOFIRE relies on the development of high-performance composites with a 20% reduction in weight and 15% in cost while maintaining the required levels of safety suitable for applications under stringent operating conditions. THERMOFIRE project represents a genuine opportunity to remove Europe’s dependence on imports of fossil-based polymers for stringent operating conditions in the aerospace, automotive and textile sectors.