Avantium Teams Up with Bottle Collective to Launch Fiber Bottles

According to reports from Avantium N.V., the company, a leader in renewable and circular polymer materials, has partnered with The Bottle Collective to advance the development of fiber-based bottles using Dry Molded Fiber (DMF) technology. The new collaboration is set to integrate Avantium’s PEF (polyethylene furanoate), a plant-based polymer, into the bottle production process, enhancing the sustainability and barrier properties of the packaging.

As reported by the Bottle Collective on its official website, the initiative was launched in 2023 by PA Consulting and PulPac, the Swedish R&D company behind the proprietary DMF technology. This technology uses renewable resources like pulp and cellulose to produce fiber-based packaging that is more sustainable than conventional plastic. Notably, the DMF process reduces CO₂ emissions and uses less water compared to traditional plastic molding techniques.

In 2024, LogoPlaste, a global provider of innovative packaging solutions, joined the Bottle Collective, which already includes prominent brand partners such as Diageo, Opella, and Haleon. The collective has already developed functional prototypes of the fiber-based bottles, moving closer to scaling already developed functional prototypes of the fiber-based bottles, moving closer to scaling up the production of these eco-friendly alternatives.

According to Avantium’s announcement, the company will provide PEF for the injection molding and blowing liners used in the production of these fiber bottles. PEF is a fully recyclable, 100% plant-based polymer known for its superior barrier properties, which help preserve the taste, fizziness, and shelf life of beverages. The polymer also offers greater mechanical strength than traditional plastics, which allows for thinner packaging, reducing material usage.

Keith Thornley, commercial lead for Dry Molded Fiber collectives at PA Consulting, expressed enthusiasm over Avantium’s involvement, stating that the partnership aligns with the Bottle Collective's mission to reduce the environmental footprint of packaging.

Meanwhile, Paulo Correia, Chief Technology Officer at LogoPlaste, highlighted the advantages of the collaboration, noting that Avantium’s PEF polymer significantly enhances the performance and sustainability of fiber bottles.

Bineke Posthumus, Director of Business Development at Avantium, further emphasized that the collaboration with global brands such as Opella, Diageo, and Haleon will expedite the development and global rollout of the fiber bottles. She stated that Avantium’s PEF polymer is key to achieving the superior performance and sustainability required for the next generation of packaging.

This new partnership marks a significant step toward a more sustainable packaging future. With the continued development of eco-friendly alternatives, companies like Avantium and The Bottle Collective are shaping the future of packaging, helping reduce the environmental impact of traditional plastic bottles.

Source: Avantium