This strategic milestone confirms Emirates Biotech’s transition from early planning to active project execution. Sulzer will manufacture and supply the essential proprietary equipment for the integrated PLA production process from lactic acid, which includes lactide formation, purification and polymerization technology.

As a global leader in separation and polymerization technologies, Sulzer will deliver a full suite of proprietary equipment designed to maximize output, minimize energy use and support Emirates Biotech’s goal of providing renewable, recyclable and biodegradable plastics at industrial scale.

Tim Schulten, Division President Sulzer Chemtech, added: “We are proud to further advance our ongoing collaboration with Emirates Biotech on this pioneering project. Sulzer’s proven PLA technology was selected to enable reliable, efficient production while contributing to global efforts to decarbonize material supply chains. This project represents the kind of bold, solutions-driven investment that can make a real difference.”

Emirates Biotech and Sulzer representatives at signing event
From left to right, François de Bie, CCO Emirates Biotech; Dorus Everwijn, President GBI; Marc Verbruggen, CEO Emirates Biotech; Tim Schulten, Division President Sulzer Chemtech; Emmanuel Rapendy, Head Polymer and Crystallization, Sulzer Chemtech and Christophe Miegeville, EPC Project Officer Emirates Biotech

Marc Verbruggen, CEO of Emirates Biotech, commented: “Signing this equipment supply contract with Sulzer represents a decisive step forward for Emirates Biotech. With proprietary equipment now secured, we are firmly entering the execution phase. This is a major commitment – not just financially, but strategically – as we lay the foundation for a state-of-the-art PLA facility that will anchor the region’s transition to sustainable materials.”

Samsung E&A will serve as the contractor for the PLA facility, integrating Sulzer’s proprietary equipment within the wider plant infrastructure, including utilities, storage facilities and other site services.

Construction is expected to commence in Q4 2025, with the plant operational by early 2028.  

This document may contain forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, projections of financial developments, market activity, or future performance of products and solutions containing risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to change based on known or unknown risks and various other factors that could cause actual results or performance to differ materially from the statements made herein.

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