A new producer of renewable polyolefins in Belgium

AP Moller Holding has launched Vioneo, a new venture dedicated to transforming plastics production. It will manufacture fossil-free plastic resins and significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with plastics production. Vioneo has designed a production method utilising an innovative and proven technology to produce fossil-free polypropylene and polyethylene at scale, using green methanol as a feedstock. 

This technology ensures a fully segregated and traceable supply chain, avoiding the mixing of non-certified and certified feedstocks. The production will be powered by renewable electricity, significantly reducing GHG emissions. The end-product will be 100% fossil-free and ISCC plus certified, suitable for applications across all sectors including medical appliances, home goods, automotive and packaging.

Jan Secher has been appointed Chair of the Board of Directors of Vioneo. Secher brings decades of leadership experience, including being CEO of Clariant and Perstorp Group. Alex Hogan has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Vioneo, effective 11 November 2024. Previously, Hogan served as Business Director at Ineos Olefins and Polymers and brings extensive experience in managing large-scale industrial operations.

Vioneo intends to establish its first production complex in Antwerp, Belgium, Europe’s largest integrated chemical cluster. The Antwerp plant will benefit from the region’s expertise in the chemicals industry, strong export facilities and access to renewable energy. The production plant and supply base will require an investment of nearly 1.5 billion euros. Vioneo’s projected plans for the Antwerp based plant will proceed in phases, with a Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) set to begin in Q4 2024 and with potential Final Investment Decision (FID) in 2025. Commercial operations may commence during 2028.