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Braskem and SCG Chemicals partner to explore Thai bio-polyethylene production

Brazil-headed Braskem SA, the world's largest biopolymer producer has announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SCG Chemicals Co., Ltd. Part of Thailand-headed SCG Group, one of the largest integrated petrochemical companies in the country, the aim is to perform studies to jointly invest in a new bio-ethanol dehydration plant in Thailand to produce bio-ethylene and "I'm green" bio-based polyethylene (PE).

Braskem is the largest resin producer in the Americas, with an annual production of 20 million tonnes, including chemical products and basic petrochemicals. “I’m green” polyethylene is made from ethylene derived from sugarcane and has the same properties as conventional polyethylene, which means it does not require adaptations to machinery while being 100 percent recyclable. Braskem’s Green Plastic plant has a production capacity of 200 000 tonnes per annum (photo courtesy Braskem).

If implemented, this cooperation could double the existing capacity of “I’m green” bio-based PE.

Amidst the ever-increasing demand for circular economy and sustainable solutions worldwide, we keep looking for opportunities to expand “I’m green” bio-based PE availability. Besides meeting customers’ expectations and contributing to carbon neutrality commitment by 2050, this project may be a landmark for Braskem’s footprint in Asia. We are fortunate to develop this potential partnership with SCG Chemicals that shares the same view in sustainability and has a successful track record in the chemical industry in Asia, said Roger Marchioni, Braskem’s Director for Asia.

If the feasibility studies are approved with mutual agreement between parties, the production facility would be located in Map Ta Phut, Rayong, Thailand.

The project would allow the combination of Braskem’s technology and bio-plastics know-how with SCG Chemicals’ knowledge of the Asian market and expertise in PE production.

We are committed to sustainability and advancing a circular economy for a better society and environment. This MoU means we are exploring potential options for partnering and investing with Braskem to bring the production of bio-based Polyethylene to Asia. This would help us to meet our pledge to become “Chemicals Business for Sustainability” and ensure social and environmental stewardship following ESG standards (Environmental, Social, and Governance) while fostering United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fulfill the increasing market demand towards environmentally friendly products in accordance with the guidelines for the development of Bio-Circular-Green Economy: BCG Model of Thailand, said Tanawong Areeratchakul, President of SCG Chemicals.

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