Braskem Introduces Bio-Circular Polypropylene

Braskem announced the launch of its bio-circular polypropylene (PP), which will sell under the Wenew brand. Derived from used cooking oil, the PP is ISCC plus certified bio-circular by mass balance. “Bio-circular” refers to “waste and residues of biological origin, as well as the biodegradable fraction of industrial and municipal waste,” according to ISCC.

According to Braskem, the bio-circular PP is identical to traditional PP in properties and performance, ensuring a seamless transition for converters.

Bill Diebold, V.P. at Braskem America Polyolefins, says, “Our bio-circular PP is currently being supplied to various converters which support the quick service restaurant industry (QSR). Ideal users include QSR chains, retail food suppliers, traditional restaurants and snack food companies, especially those seeking to enhance circularity from their cooking oil usage. This versatile material is suitable for a wide range of applications, including food packaging, flexible packaging (such as films) and consumer goods.”

Used cooking oil is collected and repurposed upstream to produce certified bio-circular ISCC Plus propylene. Braskem has partnered with several suppliers in the value chain who, through their production facilities, convert bio-circular feedstock into polypropylene, creating a sustainable loop. As a mass-balanced product, Braskem’s bio-circular PP retains the same properties and performance as traditional PP, enabling continuous integration into existing downstream converter production and end-of-life recycling processes.

“The launch of our bio-circular PP marks a pivotal moment in pursuing sustainability within the restaurant and snack food industries. By adopting this innovative solution, companies can play a crucial role in promoting circularity and reducing their environmental impact,” says Courtney Keller, sustainability commercial manager at Braskem America.