Sulzer has introduced a new process solution – SULAC™. The licensed technology completes Sulzer’s portfolio of licensed technologies for the manufacture of polylactic acid (PLA), an eco-friendly bioplastic. SULAC™ supports the conversion of lactic acid into lactide, which is needed to produce PLA.
Sulzer Chemtech developed SULAC™ to meet market demand for the lactide biopolymer and ultimately facilitate the broad adoption of more circular and sustainable high-quality plastics. The licensed technology enables PLA producers to seamlessly integrate new lactic acid to lactide capabilities. It also facilitates delivery of a wide range of high-quality, competitive biopolymer grades, while improving operational efficiencies.
Sulzer offers a broad technology portfolio and has equipment installed at nearly every existing PLA facility worldwide. The press release stated that together with SULAC™, the PLA production technology includes solutions for polymerization as well as lactic acid to lactide conversion and lactide and PLA purification, providing a comprehensive PLA service offering and all the benefits of a single provider.
Sulzer Chemtech Division President Uwe Boltersdorf commented, “We are happy to strengthen our position in the PLA value chain for our customers, as we continue to support circular manufacturing practices and the use of sustainable materials”.
