Bio-based PTMEG alternative announced by Covation Biomaterials
Polymer developer Covation Biomaterials has announced the launch of bioPTMEG, a new bio-based version of polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG).
The material is positioned as a sustainable alternative to its petroleum-derived counterpart, offering comparable performance while significantly reducing environmental impact.
PTMEG is widely used in the production of spandex, polyurethanes, and thermoplastic elastomers. CovationBio’s bioPTMEG is derived entirely from renewable feedstocks such as corncobs—non-food biomass that does not compete with primary food sources. The company reports that this innovation enables a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel dependency, aligning with growing industry demand for lower-impact materials.
A key feature of bioPTMEG is its drop-in compatibility, which allows manufacturers to adopt the bio-based material without requiring major changes to existing processes or product development.
CovationBio plans to begin commercial production at a new facility in Qidong, Jiangsu Province. The plant is scheduled for mechanical completion by the end of 2025, with full-scale output expected in the first quarter of 2026.
