A research team from the Korea produced bio-based raw materials for plastic bottles
Publish date: 2025-10-13
A research team from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) has produced benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and paraxylene (BTEX), substances that are used to make plastic bottles, from bio-based sources instead of the conventional method of petroleum refining.
This bioprocess has fueled expectations of producing eco-friendly raw materials for plastic that reduce dependency on oil.
BTEX is a key raw material for things used in daily life such as PET bottles, Styrofoam and nylon but poses an environmental burden because of its need for petroleum refining. The production of plant-based BTEX is also considered difficult because of the complicated chemical structure.
This bioprocess has fueled expectations of producing eco-friendly raw materials for plastic that reduce dependency on oil.
BTEX is a key raw material for things used in daily life such as PET bottles, Styrofoam and nylon but poses an environmental burden because of its need for petroleum refining. The production of plant-based BTEX is also considered difficult because of the complicated chemical structure.
Source: korea.net
