Avantium produces its first FDCA at Delfzijl, sales expected end of 2026
Avantium announced on September 28, 2026 the transition of its flagship Delfzijl plant from commissioning to production. The Dutch company is now targeting a product qualification program before opening commercial sales.
First batch of FDCA produced at commercial scale
Avantium stated that it has produced the first batch of furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) at its Delfzijl plant, presented as the world's first commercial-scale FDCA production facility. This production followed the commissioning of all major process units, a milestone reached in early September 2026 with the purification unit. FDCA, obtained through catalytic conversion of plant sugars via YXY technology, constitutes the basic building block of bio-based plastic PEF, commercialized under the Releaf brand. According to the company, this production represents an important step in validating its proprietary technology under commercial operating conditions.
Product qualification before opening sales end of 2026
Avantium is now focusing its efforts on a qualification and operation program designed to ensure product compliance with customer specifications, transitioning from batch production to continuous operation. The group anticipates the start of commercial sales towards the end of 2026. Tom van Aken, Chief Executive Officer of Avantium, stated: "Producing the first FDCA at our flagship plant is a major achievement and a significant milestone for Avantium. This accomplishment marks the transition from commissioning activities to operational start-up and qualification." The company indicates it is counting on ramping up towards full design capacity over a period of 12 to 24 months after plant start-up, as well as progress in license discussions with potential partners.
