UPM inaugurated its biorefinery in Leuna, Germany on Oct. 15, marking the start of a new industrial platform for renewable chemicals made from wood. The facility represents a total investment of €1,370 million (about US$1.54 billion).
The biorefinery converts lignocellulosic biomass, primarily beechwood from thinnings and sawmill residues, into biochemicals. With an annual capacity of 220,000 tonnes, UPM said it is the largest facility of its kind in the world.
Using enzymatic hydrolysis, the plant breaks biomass down into industrial sugars and lignin, renewable raw materials that can replace fossil-based inputs in chemicals production. UPM said enzymatic hydrolysis and lignin-derived specialty chemical production have reached stable operation, and it is ramping up sales.
The biochemicals are intended for use in clothing, packaging, cosmetics, construction materials and tires. Feedstock is sourced within about 200 kilometers of the site and is material unsuitable for higher-value uses such as timber or furniture.
