CovationBio unveils bio-based PTMEG alternative

Covation Biomaterials unveiled bioPTMEG, a bio-based alternative to petroleum-derived polytetramethylene ether glycol, at Chinaplas 2025 in Shenzhen, China, from April 15-18. The company introduced this sustainable material as a “drop-in” replacement designed to reduce environmental impact without requiring significant manufacturing process changes. Made entirely from renewable resources such as corncobs, bioPTMEG delivers substantially lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil-based PTMEG while maintaining performance standards. The launch reflects growing industry demand for sustainable materials that address climate concerns without compromising functionality.

Product Innovation

CovationBio’s bioPTMEG is engineered as a seamless substitute for traditional PTMEG, enabling manufacturers to integrate the bio-based material into existing production systems without extensive product development. The feedstock—non-food biomass like corncobs—does not compete with primary food sources, addressing sustainability concerns. The company is scaling production at a dedicated manufacturing facility in Jiangsu Province, Qidong, with mechanical completion expected by late 2025 and commercial production beginning in the first quarter of 2026.

Applications and Industry Impact

BioPTMEG targets high-performance applications including spandex, polyurethanes, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and thermoplastic elastomers. By offering equivalent durability and resilience to petroleum-based alternatives, the material enables manufacturers to reduce reliance on non-renewable resources while meeting performance requirements. This innovation positions CovationBio as a key player in the industry’s defossilization efforts, supporting customers’ sustainability goals and advancing the transition toward a decarbonized materials industry.

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