Michelin develops technologies for obtaining bio-butadiene
Companies Michelin and Axens, as well as the French Institute of Petroleum (IFPEN), have reported "significant progress" in the implementation of a project to develop butadiene production technology from bioethanol, supported by ADEME (the French agency responsible for the transition to an eco-friendly economy) and the authorities of New Aquitaine and Bordeaux. The first demonstration samples of the new material were obtained in July 2023, and now, as the partners note, "several key milestones have been achieved, confirming the viability of the innovative technology".
Within the framework of the BioButterfly project, bioethanol and second-generation materials were successfully tested, from which butadiene with "100% biogenic origin" was obtained. "The efficiency of raw material production from both sources has been confirmed, which speaks to the flexibility and adaptability of the process using various types of bioethanol," notes Axens.
The butadiene produced on the demonstration unit was used to synthesize butadiene and butadiene-styrene rubber in the polymerization block, and it is reported that the process was successful, i.e., the possibility of using bio-based materials in the production of synthetic rubbers has been confirmed. In addition, the obtained butadiene meets the quality requirements for polymers and is suitable for use in the production of high-quality products, says Axens, which makes it an alternative to fossil raw materials, reducing the carbon footprint.
"We are proud that our joint efforts with Michelin and IFPEN are bearing fruit," said Jacinthe Frécon, Axens Vice President for Innovation. "The successful testing of our technology is a key milestone on the path to eco-friendly butadiene production based on biomaterials, and our data will help reduce risks and ensure the efficiency and profitability of production for our future customers".
According to Cyrille Dupont, Michelin Vice President for Scientific Research and Materials Development, "currently, most of the new types of raw materials needed for tire production either do not exist or are not available on an industrial scale", and the BioButterfly project is "a great example of how we, together with our partners, can turn bold ideas into eco-friendly materials from renewable sources".
It is expected that bio-butadiene will pass technological certification by mid-2026, which will open up the possibility of its commercialization.
Photo: european-rubber-journal.com