UPM set to start rubber-filler deliveries from Leuna

Helsinki –  UPM Biochemicals expects to start customer deliveries of renewable functional fillers (RFFs) produced at its biorefinery in Leuna, Germany by the end of September.

Representing an investment estimated at €1,370 million, the Leuna biorefinery has capacity to produce 220ktpa of various bio-based products, including RFFs for the rubber & tire industry.

Ramp-up of the biorefinery has continued with “deliveries of RFFs and other lignin derivatives expected to start in the third quarter,” said Massimo Reynaudo president and CEO of parent group UPM-Kymmene Corp. (UPM).

The wood-to-lignin-and-sugar facility is expected to reach full production capacity and positive EBIT [earnings before interest and taxes] during 2027, Reynaudo added in UPM’s first half report, issued 23 July.  

“Commercial interest in the main products and side-streams has continued strong, with confirmed customer contracts and a sales- and customer-qualification pipeline that exceeds multiple times the annual capacity,” he commented

Lignin-based RFFs are being offered as renewable alternatives to fossil-derived carbon black and other rubber fillers for tires, automotive profiles, hoses, seals, footwear, flooring and other products.

The biorefinery will produce a range of 100% wood-based biochemicals which will enable a switch from fossil raw mats to sustainable alternatives in various end uses.

The enhanced sustainability offerings “will enable customer brands to achieve market differentiation and superior technical performance,” said UPM, which expects the portfolio to open up new, high-growth markets.

Related stories

Lignin filler project tops inaugural E4S Awards  (ERJ report)

UPM welcomes new EU bio-economy strategy  (ERJ report)

UPM achieves industrial-scale production at Leuna biorefinery  (ERJ report)