Praj Industries, thyssenkrupp Uhde collaborate for polylactic acid

30 Apr 2025 , 11:19 AM

Praj Industries Limited stated that it has inked a strategic partnership with thyssenkrupp Uhde’s subsidiary Uhde Inventa-Fischer (UIF). As part of the agreement, the two companies will jointly offer an integrated, end-to-end tech for producing polylactic acid (PLA). It is a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics.

The agreement is directed at advancing circular economy goals by integrating Praj’s expertise in industrial biotechnology with UIF’s proven chemical engineering capabilities. This includes feedstock conversion to final polymer output. This targets industries such as packaging, textiles, and hygiene.

Praj informed the bourses that it has also established a Centre of Excellence (CoE) and Innovation for Biopolymers in collaboration with ICT Mumbai and introduced the first demonstration facility for biopolymers near Pune for production of lactic acid and lactide. 

Nadja Håkansson, CEO of thyssenkrupp Uhde stated that the companies would be able to provide an alternative to conventional plastics with the help of Uhde’s PLAneo® process.

With this integrated offering, the two companies can produce various grades of lactic acid from agricultural feedstocks. This can also include second-generation, non-food sources, and convert them into PLA grades that are suitable for industrial and consumer applications.

Praj Industries is among the leading biotech firms, operating in over 100 countries.

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