Praj Industries Limited and UhdeInventa-Fischer (UIF), the polymer division of ThyssenkruppUhde, have entered into a partnership to develop and supply integrated technology for the production of Polylactic Acid (PLA). The collaboration brings together Praj’s experience in biotechnology and UIF’s background in chemical processing to support more efficient and scalable PLA production.
The agreement focuses on addressing the growing need for alternatives to conventional fossil-fuel-based plastics. PLA, a biodegradable polymer derived from renewable sources, is increasingly used in packaging, textiles, and other applications. The joint solution will cover the full production chain, from converting feedstocks into lactic acid through to the polymerization of PLA, with flexibility to produce various grades suitable for both food and industrial use.
Dr Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj Industries, emphasized the company’s broader goals in renewable materials, referencing its Bioprism portfolio and recent initiatives such as the establishment of a biopolymer innovation center with ICT Mumbai and the launch of a demonstration facility near Pune. The site focuses on lactic acid and lactide production for research and validation of bioplastic technologies.
Nadja Håkansson, CEO of ThyssenkruppUhde, stated that the partnership will allow both firms to offer complete PLA plant solutions by combining Uhde’sPLAneo process with Praj’s lactic acid technology. She highlighted the potential for the collaboration to deliver alternatives to traditional plastics.
The joint offering is designed to be compatible with various agricultural inputs, including second-generation feedstocks, making it suitable for deployment in multiple regions. Both companies aim to support long-term efforts in sustainable material production, contributing to the shift away from non-biodegradable plastics.
Praj Industries, India’s leading industrial biotech company, has been at the forefront of innovations in the environment, energy, and agri-processing sectors for over 40 years. The company has a global footprint, with over 1,000 customers in more than 100 countries.
Praj’s flagship platforms, Bio-Mobility® and Bio-Prism®, are central to its contributions to the global bioeconomy, offering renewable transportation fuel technology solutions and renewable chemicals and materials technologies. Praj’s state-of-the-art R&D facility, Praj Matrix, supports its mission of advancing a clean energy-based bioeconomy. The company’s portfolio spans Bio-energy solutions, critical process equipment, breweries, zero liquid discharge systems, and high purity water systems. Praj is committed to being a responsible corporate citizen and is listed on the Bombay and National Stock Exchanges of India.
