Terphane and Origin Materials have formed a strategic partnership to produce sustainable, high-performance bio-polymer films. This collaboration will allow Terphane to purchase and utilize the advanced bio-polymer PEF, which will be incorporated into various film applications, including food and beverage packaging.
The films in question, BOPEF (biaxially oriented PEF) and BOPET (biaxially oriented PET), are highly valued due to their exceptional strength, transparency, barrier properties, and electrical insulation.
“We are delighted to join forces with Terphane, a reputable global leader in film production, known for its extensive customer and partner relationships,” stated Rich Riley, Co-CEO of Origin Materials. “Our mutual goal is to develop innovative, high-performance products that contribute to a net-zero material economy. This partnership signifies another significant stride in Origin’s mission to facilitate the global transition to sustainable materials.”
Marcos Vieira, the global director of R&D for Terphane, emphasizes that the development of these films is crucial in meeting the rising global demand for sustainable flexible packaging.
“Partially composed of PEF, this film possesses all the conventional properties of a regular PET film, including the capability for post-consumption recycling,” Vieira explains. “Additionally, PEF exhibits excellent thermal resistance and superior barrier performance, effectively extending the shelf life of packaged goods.”
Furthermore, Vieira confirms that initial testing in the United States has proven the material’s compatibility with extrusion lines.
Origin Materials’ patented technology platform represents a potential breakthrough in the commercialization of cost-competitive, low-carbon PEF. The primary precursor to PEF, furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), is used to manufacture Origin PEF, a polymer boasting a compelling combination of sustainability and performance characteristics. This includes enhanced barrier properties, among others.
Origin PEF is projected to be fully plant-based, fully recyclable, economically advantageous, and significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to widely-used petroleum-based materials. It will also offer superior strength, thermal properties, and barrier properties.
