Mass-Balanced Bio-Paraxylene Sparks the Genesis of PET Bottle Supply Chain

Mitsubishi Corporation (MC), Suntory Holdings Limited, and Eneos Corporation have jointly unveiled an innovative collaboration aimed at establishing a sustainable supply chain for PET bottles sourced from biomass. In a significant stride toward environmental responsibility, these companies have come together to pioneer a novel approach that incorporates a bio-derived feedstock, ushering in a new era for PET bottle manufacturing. The core of this transformative venture centers on the utilization of Neste Re, a bio-based feedstock crafted by Finland's Neste Corporation, which is comprised entirely of bio-based raw waste and residues, including recycled cooking oil. Remarkably, this project marks the debut of Neste Re's deployment on a commercial scale for PET production.

At the heart of this strategic undertaking lies the provision of Neste Re to Eneos, a pivotal player in this supply chain synergy. Eneos will harness the potency of mass-balanced bio-intermediates, built upon the foundation of Neste Re, to cultivate bio-PX at its Mizushima Refinery, nestled in Okayama, Japan. The ensuing bio-PX will undergo transformation into Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA), subsequently metamorphosing into PET resin – a fundamental component for Suntory's PET bottle production. This collective endeavor anticipates the creation of a substantial volume of bio-PX, sufficient to engender approximately 35 million PET bottles by the conclusion of 2023. This critical raw material will be instrumental in enabling Suntory to embark on the manufacturing of their sustainable PET bottles, slated for 2024.

Coalescing this intricate web of value chain partners is the stewardship of Mitsubishi Corporation, undertaking the pivotal role of coordination. This endeavor aligns with Mitsubishi's profound belief that the amalgamation of biomass in the realm of PET bottle production, complemented by the evolution of recycling systems, is pivotal for orchestrating a society characterized by low carbon emissions and decarbonization. Moreover, this strategic maneuver serves as a testament to reducing reliance on finite fossil resources.

Unveiling the core chemistry of PET resin production unveils two distinct monomers at play. Mono ethylene glycol (MEG), constituting about 30% of the primary raw material for PET resin in PET bottles, has long been open to a bio-based alternative. In contrast, the remaining 70% comprises high-purity terephthalic acid, traditionally derived from petroleum-derived naphtha. The amalgamation of these two constituents yields PET bottle resin, with the PTA-MEG reaction being the linchpin.

To ingeniously channel the bio-based constituents into the PET bottles, a mass balance paradigm will be diligently applied. This strategy exemplifies the companies' commitment to transparency and sustainability, ensuring that the incorporation of bio-based materials is meticulously measured and allocated.

In summation, the collaborative synergy between Mitsubishi Corporation, Suntory Holdings Limited, and Eneos Corporation marks a profound advancement in sustainable PET bottle manufacturing. By harnessing the potential of Neste Re and embracing a mass-balanced approach, this initiative heralds a new dawn in responsible production practices, serving as a stepping stone toward a more ecologically conscious future. Through collective efforts and innovative solutions, this pioneering trio is poised to reshape the landscape of PET bottle production, setting a commendable precedent for environmental stewardship.