Joining Forces for a Greener Future: The Praj-UIF PLA Collaboration

Praj Industries (PIL), a leader in industrial biotechnology, has partnered with Uhde Inventa-Fischer (UIF), the polymer technology subsidiary of chemical engineering major thyssenkrupp Uhde, to develop a comprehensive, end-to-end technology platform for the production of polylactic acid (PLA)—a renewable, biodegradable plastic.

This strategic collaboration brings together Praj’s expertise in biotechnology and UIF’s strength in polymer engineering to deliver an integrated, scalable solution that supports the transition to a circular bioeconomy. PLA, derived from renewable resources, is gaining prominence as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics in the global fight against plastic pollution.

The alliance offers a fully integrated PLA production process—from feedstock conversion to polymerisation—ensuring high efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. As part of its commitment to innovation, Praj has established a Centre of Excellence and Innovation for Biopolymers in collaboration with ICT Mumbai, and has commissioned India’s first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers near Pune, capable of producing lactic acid and lactide.

This platform supports the manufacture of multiple lactic acid grades for both food and industrial applications and enables the production of a broad range of PLA types tailored to industries including packaging, textiles, and hygiene.

With global reach and the flexibility to process diverse feedstocks—including second-generation, non-food biomass—this partnership is poised to deliver next-generation bioplastic solutions on a global scale.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.