Braskem partners to distribute “green” PE in Europe

In a move to bring “green” polyethylene (PE) compounds to Europe, bioplastics compounding specialist FKuR will begin making compounds based on Braskem SA‘s bio-based PE.

In a news release, Sao Paulo, Brazil-based Braskem said it was seeking an “experienced partner” to increase their European market share and develop high value compounds for a diverse range of applications. “We chose FKuR…because they have extensive compounding experience with polyolefins and bioplastics,” said Fabio Carneiro, Baskem’s renewable chemicals commercial officer. “Their extensive knowledge of the renewable plastics market and their excellent reputation in the bioplastics business convinced us they are the best partner.”  

Willich, Germany-based FKuR produces biopolymer resins/blends for flexible packaging and rigid applications.  

According to Braskem, in September 2010 it became the world´s first producer of LLDPE and HDPE from renewable resources. The ethanol used to make green PE is made from sugarcane produced in Brazil. Braskem has 31 industrial plants in Brazil and the U.S., and produces over 15 million tons of thermoplastic resins and other petrochemical products per year.