Avantium N.V., a leader in renewable and circular polymer materials, has partnered with the Bottle Collective to help develop next-generation fiber bottles using cutting-edge Dry Molded Fiber (DMF) technology.

The collaboration integrates Avantium’s plant-based polymer, polyethylene furanoate (PEF), into the production of fiber bottles, aiming to enhance their barrier properties and sustainability. PEF is a 100% plant-based, fully recyclable polymer known for its superior mechanical strength and ability to preserve the taste and carbonation of beverages, contributing to extended shelf life. It also allows for thinner packaging, reducing material usage.

The Bottle Collective was established in 2023 by PA Consulting, a global innovation consultancy, and PulPac, a Swedish company specializing in research, development and intellectual property. PulPac developed the proprietary DMF process, which uses renewable cellulose and pulp to produce high-performance, low-cost packaging. Unlike conventional plastic or wet-molded fiber processes, DMF significantly reduces CO2 emissions and water use.

In 2024, Logoplaste, a global provider of sustainable rigid packaging solutions, joined the Bottle Collective. Logoplaste brings expertise in injection molding and blow molding, key techniques in developing fiber bottle liners using Avantium’s PEF.

The Bottle Collective has already produced functioning prototypes and is collaborating with major global brands such as Diageo, Opella and Haleon to further refine and scale production of fiber-based bottles.

Avantium’s role focuses on supplying PEF for use in liner components through injection molding and blow molding processes. The polymer’s high barrier performance helps ensure the durability and effectiveness of the fiber bottles in real-world applications.

“Avantium’s participation aligns with our mission to fundamentally reduce the environmental impact of packaging,” said Keith Thornley, commercial lead for Dry Molded Fiber collectives at PA Consulting. “Their technical expertise and innovative materials add tremendous value to the Bottle Collective.”

Paulo Correia, chief technology officer at Logoplaste, highlighted PEF’s environmental and performance advantages. “This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to advancing sustainable packaging by leveraging innovative, plant-based materials,” he said.

Bineke Posthumus, director of business development at Avantium, emphasized the partnership’s potential. “Together with global partners like Diageo, Haleon and Opella, we’re accelerating the development of world-first Dry Molded Fiber bottles,” Posthumus said. “Our PEF polymer enhances both the sustainability and performance of these bottles, supporting a transition to a circular economy.”

The Bottle Collective aims to bring fiber bottles to market as a viable, eco-friendly alternative to conventional plastic packaging.

Polyethylene furanoate (PEF) is a bio-based polymer comparable to polyethylene terephthalate (PET), but it is derived from renewable plant sugars rather than fossil fuels.