Technip Energies Acquires Shell's Cutting-Edge Technology for Boosting Bio-Polyester Production

Technip Energies and Shell Catalysts & Technologies have formed a strategic alliance to expedite the market launch of Technip Energies' groundbreaking Bio-2-Glycols™ technology. This cutting-edge technology enables the sustainable production of bio-based Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG) from glucose, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional MEG production methods. The collaboration leverages Shell's extensive expertise in catalyst technology and Technip Energies' pioneering advancements in bio-based solutions, positioning both companies at the forefront of the renewable chemicals market. This partnership underscores their commitment to advancing sustainable industrial practices and meeting the growing demand for greener, bio-based products.

This technology transfer agreement represents a strategic collaboration that combines Shell's pioneering R&D advancements with Technip Energies' proven bio-MEG technology. The collaboration aims to deliver a more efficient and sustainable bio-based MEG solution, addressing market demands for eco-friendly chemical processes. By combining the strengths of both companies, the partnership will drive innovation and operational efficiency in the production of bio-based MEG. The enhanced technology, branded under the Bio-2-Glycols™ trademark, will be commercially available, offering the industry a superior alternative that aligns with global sustainability goals and meets the growing consumer demand for greener products.

Traditionally, MEG is derived from fossil-based feedstocks for the production of polyesters used in packaging materials, like plastic bottles, and in apparel. Through this acquisition, Technip Energies aims to transition to a bio-based polyester solution by substituting fossil-based feedstocks. Leveraging a bio-sourced monomer, the Bio-2-Glycols™ technology facilitates the production of polyesters with a significantly reduced carbon footprint and minimized environmental impact.

Wei Cai, Chief Technology Officer of Technip Energies, expressed satisfaction with the completion of the agreement, which enables the company to offer an optimized solution for producing bio-MEG, a key feedstock in numerous everyday applications. He highlighted the company's confidence in swiftly commercializing the Bio-2-Glycols™ technology, with plans to launch it by 2025. Cai emphasized that this technology would play a crucial role in addressing the net zero challenge by providing a sustainable alternative to traditional methods, thereby contributing to reducing the carbon footprint of essential products.

Elise H. Nowee, President of Shell Catalysts & Technologies, expressed enthusiasm about the agreement with Technip Energies, emphasizing the collaboration's potential to enhance and accelerate the commercialization of Bio-2-Glycols™. She noted that by integrating Technip Energies' expertise with Shell's development work, they are well-positioned to expedite the deployment of sustainable alternatives to fossil-based feedstocks. This partnership aims to drive innovation and create a more efficient and sustainable solution in the production of bio-based MEG, marking a significant step towards reducing environmental impact and advancing sustainable practices in the industry.