Lummus Technology Invests in RWDC Industries to Accelerate PHA Biopolymer Commercialization
HOUSTON and ATHENS, GA — Lummus Technology, a global provider of process technologies and value-driven energy solutions, has taken a lead investor position in RWDC Industries’ convertible bond round, further strengthening the partnership to bring polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) to the global market.
Accelerating Commercial-Scale PHA Production
RWDC’s first commercial-scale PHA facility is in the final stages of engineering, with detailed engineering and pre-construction activities set to be finalized in the coming months. Lummus’ lead investment will enable completion of these final stages, targeting groundbreaking of the facility in early 2025.
A Binding Partnership
Since signing a binding Joint Development and Commercial Cooperation Agreement in September 2023, Lummus and RWDC have made substantial progress in their shared mission to accelerate worldwide adoption of PHA and prepare the technology for global licensing.
PHA is a biodegradable and environmentally safe alternative to petroleum-based plastics that can help mitigate health concerns associated with persistent plastics and microplastics in the environment.
Industry-Scale Impact
“Lummus’ investment in RWDC is a testament to our unwavering commitment to commercializing PHA and advancing the circular economy of the polymer industry,” said Leon de Bruyn, President and CEO of Lummus Technology. “By combining our expertise in process technology with RWDC’s innovative PHA production capabilities, we are poised to make a significant impact on the world’s transition to sustainable materials.”
Dr. Daniel Carraway, CEO of RWDC, added: “This investment not only accelerates our journey towards construction of our first commercial-scale PHA production facility but also validates the immense potential of our technology in addressing the global challenge of plastic pollution.”
Why It Matters
PHA is one of the most promising biopolymers because it biodegrades in soil, freshwater, and marine environments — unlike most other bioplastics. Commercial-scale production has been the key bottleneck. With Lummus’ process engineering expertise and financial backing, RWDC is positioned to bring PHA to global markets at scale.
Source: RWDC Industries