Michelin advances bio-based resin production in France

Clermont-Ferrand, France — Michelin is moving closer to large-scale production of bio-based resins with a new industrial production line in northern France.

Michelin ResiCare announced that construction is underway on a production line for its DragonFly project at an Ajinomoto industrial site in Nesle. The facility is expected to begin operating in the second quarter of 2027.

The project uses fermentation to produce a bio-based aromatic molecule that can be used in Michelin’s next-generation resins. The company says the technology could reduce greenhouse gas emissions from producing the molecule by up to 96% compared with fossil-based alternatives.

The resins are being developed for a range of industries, including construction, furniture, automotive, aerospace, electronics and transportation.

Michelin said the DragonFly project, combined with its separate Cerisea initiative, is designed to secure supplies of bio-based materials while reducing reliance on petrochemical sources.

The DragonFly project is being developed with Ajinomoto and Alderys, a Givaudan company. The French government is supporting the project through its France 2030 investment plan.

Michelin ResiCare grew out of Michelin’s research and development work and focuses on high-performance, bio-based and non-toxic resin technologies.