PTT MCC Biochem (PTTMCC) announced a strategic partnership with International Fibres Group (IFG) at the recent EDANA International Nonwovens Symposium in Lyon, France).

Under the IFGBio brand, the two firms will offer newly developed staple fibers produced from bio-based polybutylene succinate (BioPBS).

The goal is to speed the development of sustainable nonwovens based on BioPBS for applications such as food and beverage, filtration, geotextiles, and construction.

PTTMCC, a joint venture between PTT Global and Mitsubishi Chemical, is the world's biggest commercial manufacturer of bio-based polybutylene succinate under the BioPBS tradename, producing 20,000 tons per year at its factory in Rayong, Thailand.

BioPBS is partially derived from renewable resources and has high compostability at ambient temperature. It outperforms other biodegradable polymers in terms of low-temperature heat sealability, high heat resistance, and flexibility.

IFG is one of Europe’s prominent independent manufacturers of polypropylene-based staple fibers used in the manufacture of flooring, carpets, furniture, filtration, foodstuff packaging, automotive interiors, and other nonwoven textiles in Europe. Its facilities are located in Belgium, the United Kingdom, and Austria, and it has established a fundamental goal to build an industry-leading range of more sustainable plant-based staple fiber solutions.