UPM inaugurates $1.5B biorefinery in Leuna, Germany
In Germany, forestry-based materials maker UPM has inaugurated a much-anticipated biorefinery in Leuna. The site converts lignocellulosic biomass, primarily wood from sustainably managed forests and sawmill residues, into biochemicals. With an annual capacity of 220,000 metric tons, the €1.37-billion (USD$1.54-billion) facility is the largest of its kind in the world.
Enzymatic hydrolysis and the production of lignin-derived specialty chemicals have reached stable operation, and UPM is ramping up sales of these products. The biobased chemicals will be used in everyday products, from clothing and packaging to cosmetics, construction materials and tires.
Category: Chemicals & Materials
