AVA Biochem and Michelin Group join forces to establish the world’s first commercial-scale production plant of 5-HMF

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Type of post: NEWS IN BRIEF.

AVA Biochem has entered into a Joint Development Agreement with the Michelin Group to establish the world’s first commercial-scale production plant of 5-(hydroxymethyl)furfural (5-HMF) and to bring novel product applications onto the market based on this versatile chemical.
Press release: “Greentech pioneer AVA Biochem teams-up with Michelin Group to foster eco-innovation”, 31/1/2020.

Figure 1. AVA Biochem and Michelin Group join forces to establish the world’s first commercial-scale production plant of 5-HMF

AVA Biochem has developed, patented and piloted a fully water-based process for the conversion of industrial sugars into the 5-HMF (100% biobased molecule). This platform chemical is ideally positioned to replace petroleum-sourced chemicals in various mass-market applications, due to its versatility, non-toxicity and bio-sourcing. Applications include biopolymers (such as yarns, films, bottles and other packaging) as well as resins and adhesives, where 5-HMF replaces highly toxic formaldehyde. These applications are all targeted to improve the performance, economics, sustainability (low carbon footprint) and safety (non-toxicity) of a variety of both consumer goods and industrial products.