Braskem and SCG Chemicals join forces to build bio-ethylene plant in Thailand

Braskem and SCG Chemicals have signed a joint venture agreement to create Braskem Siam Company Limited – it aims to produce bio-ethylene from bio-ethanol dehydration and to commercialize I’m green bio-based polyethylene (PE), using EtE EverGreen technology developed by Lummus Technology LLC and Braskem B.V. partnership.

Braskem and SCG Chemicals have signed a joint venture agreement for a bio-ethylene plant in Thailand.

I’m green bio-based PE is a plastic made from ethanol from sugar cane, which is a sustainable, renewable raw material, instead of traditional fossil feedstock. This promotes a significant reduction in plastic’s carbon footprint.

The bio-based PE is used in a variety of products, from packaging for food and beverage to personal and home care products, toys, houseware and plastic bags. It can also be mechanically or chemically recycled just as regular PE.

The joint venture is based on the combination of Braskem’s bio-based plastics knowledge and ability with SCG Chemicals’ expertise in PE production and position in the Asian market.

Braskem will provide technology, operational experience in the ethanol dehydration process and the I’m green brand strength; while SCG Chemicals will offer expertise in high-quality PE grades for different applications, operational excellence in PE manufacturing and market reach in Southeast Asia.

The bio-ethylene plant will enable the production of the I’m green bio-based PE. The new plant in Map Ta Phut, Rayong, Thailand, which is the first of its kind outside of Brazil, will almost double the existing capacity of I’m green bio-based PE to meet the growing demand for biopolymers globally.