Michelin and Axens enter into discussions to accelerate the deployment of a key bio-based molecule for green chemistry

• Michelin, through its ResiCare brand, and Axens, have entered into exclusive negotiations for a partnership aimed at accelerating the industrialization and commercialization of 5-HMF, a strategic bio-based molecule for decarbonized chemistry, developed in collaboration with IFP Energies Nouvelles (IFPEN).
• Axens would contribute its licensing and engineering expertise to support the global deployment of the technology, enabling the substitution of fossil-based products with renewable alternatives.
• Production capacity will become available as early as the beginning of 2027, with the start-up of the first 5-HMF production unit operated by Michelin ResiCare in Péage-de-Roussillon, France.

Michelin ResiCare and Axens today announced that they have entered into exclusive discussions regarding the establishment of a strategic partnership centered on an innovative technology for the production of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), a key building block for green chemistry.

The partnership aims to accelerate the industrialization and large-scale deployment of a bio-based solution designed to address the growing decarbonization challenges facing the chemicals and materials industries.

5-HMF serves as a fundamental building block for the production of resins, polymers, and other more sustainable materials, enabling the gradual replacement of certain petroleum-derived molecules. This highly promising platform molecule—bio-based, non-toxic, and versatile—can be used to develop resins and adhesives as well as bio based polymers.

One notable example is polyethylene furanoate (PEF), a bio-based plastic widely regarded as one of the most credible alternatives to PET. PEF offers significant industrial opportunities across food packaging, bottle manufacturing, and textile fiber markets. Beyond polymers, 5-HMF also holds strong potential for a broad range of solvents, intermediates, and products used in fine and specialty chemicals.

Thanks to its compatibility with existing industrial processes, this molecule enables the replacement of certain fossil-based compounds, such as formaldehyde, with renewable alternatives derived from plant-based resources.

The result of a joint R&D program conducted by Michelin ResiCare and IFP Energies Nouvelles (IFPEN), with the support of ADEME in France and the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) in Europe, this technology is now at the heart of a major industrial project. A first production unit, located in Péage-de-Roussillon, France, with a capacity of approximately 3,000 tonnes per year, will be operated by Michelin ResiCare. Start-up is scheduled for early 2027.

By combining Michelin’s innovation strength, through the expertise of Michelin ResiCare, with Axens’ industrialization know-how and global deployment capabilities, this collaboration aims to bring to market a solution that is efficient, competitive, and sustainable.

“This project fully reflects Axens’ ambition to transform breakthrough innovations into concrete industrial solutions on a global scale. By combining a technology developed through leading research collaborations with IFP Energies Nouvelles and our expertise in licensing and engineering, we have the opportunity to accelerate the deployment of key bio-based solutions that will support the transition toward a more sustainable chemicals industry.” stated Jacinthe Frécon, Vice-President Process and Equipment Innovation at Axens.

“We are convinced that 5-HMF is destined to become a benchmark platform molecule for sustainable chemistry. Our proposed partnership with Axens represents a key lever to accelerate its deployment on a global scale and meet the growing demand for high performance bio-based solutions. This collaboration confirms both the strong development potential of 5-HMF across a wide range of applications and the performance of the technology we have developed in partnership with IFP Energies Nouvelles (IFPEN). It is fully aligned with Michelin ResiCare’s commitment to developing innovative solutions that contribute to a safer and more sustainable world.” added Laurent Lemonnier, CEO of Michelin ResiCare.

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