Michelin has announced the construction of its first industrial demonstration unit for the 5-HMF molecule. Located on the Osiris platform in Péage-en-Roussillon, France, the company says its new facility will have an annual production capacity of 3,000 metric tons, making it the largest production site for 5-HMF in the world.
Also known as 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, 5-HMF is a bio-sourced, non-toxic platform molecule with multiple potential derivatives. It can serve as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based or otherwise concerning ingredients and is derived from fructose through green chemistry processes.
“The launch of this initial unit in France, to produce a bio-sourced molecule essential for green chemistry, is a major milestone for taking Resicare’s activities to an industrial scale. Created at Michelin in 2016, this start-up at the cutting edge of innovation will be able to speed up the development of its high-performance and non-toxic resin offers for manufacturers. This new demonstration of the Group’s innovative power, the fruit of years of joint research with our partners, also heralds the creation of a new European industry,” said Maude Portigliatti, director of the Polymer Composite Solutions division at Michelin.
Michelin says this project represents a total investment of EUR 60 million, partly subsidized by the ADEME in France and the CBE JU1 at European level. It will allow for the creation of approximately 30 direct jobs and should begin its activities during 2026.