Michelin demos industrial production of 5-HMF molecule

In France, Michelin recently announced the construction of an initial industrial demonstration unit for the 5-HMF molecule. This bio-sourced and non-toxic molecule can replace ingredients derived from fossil fuels in a wide variety of industrial fields. This unit, which will be located on the Osiris platform in Péage en Roussillon, France, will have an annual production capacity of 3,000 metric tons, making this site the largest production site in the world for this molecule. This project represents a total investment of EUR 60 million, partly subsidized by the ADEME in France and the CBE JU at European level. It will allow for the creation of approximately 30 direct jobs and should begin its activities during 2026.