Braskem, a leading global producer of biopolymers, and SCG Chemicals, a leading petrochemical company in Thailand and Southeast Asia, have signed a joint venture (JV) agreement to create Braskem Siam Company Limited.

Subject to the approval of the antitrust authorities and the final investment decision by the partners, this joint venture aims to produce bioethylene from the dehydration of bioethanol, using the EverGreenT EtE technology. This technology is the result of a partnership between Lummus Technology LLC and Braskem BV for the development and licensing of I'm greenT production.

I'm greenT biopolyethylene is a plastic made from a sustainably sourced renewable feedstock (sugarcane ethanol) rather than traditional fossil feedstocks (eg petroleum naphtha). This promotes a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of plastic, which helps in the fight against climate change. I'm greenT biopolyethylene is used in several products, from packaging for food and beverages to personal and domestic care products, toys, household utensils and plastic bags, among others. It can also be mechanically or chemically recycled, just like standard polyethylene.

The bioethylene plant, which will enable the production of I'm greenT biopolyethylene, is the first of its kind outside Brazil. The new plant in Thailand will nearly double I'm greenT biopolyethylene production capacity to meet the growing demand for biopolymers globally, with a focus on the rapidly growing demand for sustainable products in Asia.

Roberto Bischoff, CEO of Braskem, said: "We are always looking for opportunities to expand the I'm greenT bio-PE offering to provide circular alternatives to our customers with a minimal carbon footprint, meeting their growing demand for sustainable solutions. This partnership with SCG Chemicals is in line with our commitment to produce 1 million tonnes of green products by 2030, replacing fossil raw materials with renewable ones and contributing to reducing the carbon footprint of our industry."

The project will be located in Map Ta Phut, Rayong, Thailand.