FKuR and Braskem sign compounding of 'Green PE'

Braskem, company expert in biopolymers, and FKuR, specialist in compounding, have signed an agreement of BioPE, Green PE compounding. This collaboration will result in the first green polyethylene compounds available in Europe-tailored. Braskem was looking for a partner with experience to increase their share in the European market and develop compounds of high value for a wide range of applications. "We chose FKuR as a partner because they have a wide experience in the field of compounding of polyolefins and also bioplastics". "His knowledge of the market of renewable plastics and its reputation in the bioplastics sector convinced us that they are the best partner", says Fabio Carneiro, director commercial Renewable Green Chemicals of Braskem.

"This agreement is an important and substantial step towards increasing our portfolio of renewable plastics." "The Green PE compounding is a logical evolution of our strong expansion in the world and the philosophy of the company: Plastics - made by nature", explains Edmund Dolfen, director of FKuR. In September 2010, Braskem became the world's largest producer of LLDPE and HDPE from renewable resources. The ethanol used to make the Green EP is derived from sugarcane produced in Brazil. The content of renewable resources by product can reach up to 100%, depending on the application. As a result of the Braskem technology and the source of raw material, each tonne of green polyethylene produced captures up to 2.5 tonnes of CO₂ in the atmosphere, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Another advantage is that the Green EP is recyclable 100% using existing recycling processes. In addition, given that the Green EP is not biodegradable, CO₂ captured during the process of cultivation of sugar cane remains sequestered during the entire life of the plastic. Finally, the Green EP of Braskem PE has the same technical characteristics and processability that polyethylene based on fossil material. This means that the Green EP does not require new investment in equipment or technical adjustments, which represents a clear advantage for the manufacturing industry.