The first PEF World Congress
PEF (polyethylene furanoate) is a novel polyester, produced from 100 % plant-based raw materials. It is recyclable and is regarded as the packaging material of the future, particularly in the food and beverage sector but also for textiles and more.
That is why the trade magazine Renewable Carbon Plastics (previously knowns as bioplastics Magazine), together with PEFerence is now organising the 1st PEF World Congress. The global conference will be held on 30/31 October 2024 in Düsseldorf, Germany (or online = hybrid event). It offers high-class presentations from top individuals in the industry from the complete value chain. The event will cover HMF, FDCA, and PEF, as well as applications and end-of-life solutions. There will also be excellent networking opportunities along with a table-top exhibition.
Often compared to PET due to their similar chemistry, both polyesters are produced from the monomers ethylene glycol (MEG) and an aromatic diacid—furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) for PEF and terephthalic acid for PET. Despite this similarity, PEF’s small molecular difference results in several distinct properties. PEF is claimed to have a 50% lower carbon footprint compared to PET and superior barrier properties against oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water, which ensures a longer shelf life for packaged products. Additionally, PEF exhibits a lower melting temperature and a higher glass transition temperature than PET. Another advantage of PEF is its higher mechanical strength. PEF can be processed using the same equipment and methods as PET, and its recycling process is identical. Furthermore, PEF is versatile and can be used for stretch blow moulding of bottles, as well as for producing fibres, films, and even biaxially oriented (BOPEF) film.
PETplanet Insider is a media partner of the PEF World Congress.
