Especially from the south, two experts came to Drachten to update the ICD on the latest state of affairs regarding the academic progress of research on biobased polymers and the state of affairs in the global industry. Dr. Peter Nossin (program manager biobased polymers of the Dutch Polymer Institute) updated us from a scientific perspective and Dr. Steven de Boer (SABIC, Global R&D manager Innovation & Sustainability) gave an overview of the industrial side.
In summary, it can be said that the breakthrough of biobased polymers is limited to only a few polymers for various reasons, and that the industry does not necessarily need to start working from natural carbons now that gas as a feedstock is taking off in chemistry. Philips' research, presented by Mark Olof Dirksen, on the practical applicability of biopolymers in a Senseo® was also enlightening on the possibilities and limitations of biobased polymers in sustainable applications.