Lummus and RWDC Announce Agreement to Accelerate and Scale PHA Production

6 September 2023

Lummus Technology, a global provider of process technologies and sustainable energy solutions, has entered into a binding Joint Development and Commercial Cooperation Agreement (JDCCA) with RWDC Industries, a biotechnology company specializing in biopolymer materials. The agreement aims to accelerate the production and global licensing of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). This collaboration builds upon a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between Lummus and RWDC in April, outlining their cooperation on global PHA deployment initiatives.

Leon de Bruyn, President and CEO of Lummus Technology, emphasized the commitment of both companies to address plastic waste and reduce the carbon footprint associated with conventional plastics production. He stated, "This agreement highlights Lummus and RWDC’s strong commitment to addressing plastic waste and the carbon footprint associated with conventional plastics production. Our partnership in this innovative space aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting our ongoing dedication to developing technologies that accelerate the use and availability of eco-friendly plastics."

Dr. Daniel Carraway, CEO of RWDC, expressed optimism about the collaboration, noting the potential to create value by making PHA polymers and resins available on a large scale. He highlighted their shared goal of developing sustainable materials that benefit the planet and emphasized the importance of this partnership in that direction. RWDC's proprietary Solon™ PHA is produced from plant-based oils, including post-consumer or waste cooking oils, and it can be organically recycled or composted, reducing the environmental impact of plastics.

RWDC's PHA products are designed to fully biodegrade in soil, fresh water, and marine environments, mitigating the problem of persistent plastics and microplastics in the environment. Additionally, articles made with PHA can be recycled, re-used, or returned to the carbon cycle through organic recycling or composting systems.

Lummus Technology's interest in this partnership underscores RWDC's appeal to licensors due to its technological innovation, commercial viability, and global brand partnerships, which validate the demand for its products.

RWDC holds a unique position as the only PHA manufacturer capable of scalable and cost-effective biopolymer production, offering formulation capabilities and guidance for product development. This partnership with Lummus further solidifies RWDC's leadership in the market. Lummus, known for its polymer expertise in Novolen® polypropylene technology, demonstrates its commitment to innovation and sustainable solutions in polyolefin technology, aiming to drive transformative change within the plastics industry.

 

Source: lummustechnology.com