日本瑞翁，生物基丁二烯项目开工，布局两大技术路线

Core Insights - Zeon and Yokohama Rubber are collaborating to construct a pilot plant for bio-based butadiene, which is set to begin production in 2026 and achieve commercialization by 2034 [1][8] - Butadiene is the most widely used rubber raw material globally, serving as a core monomer for various synthetic rubbers such as Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) and Polybutadiene Rubber (BR) [2][3] - The project represents a significant breakthrough for Japan in the non-petroleum-based synthetic rubber sector, aiming to accelerate the commercialization of bio-based elastomers through cross-industry collaboration [7] Industry Overview - Butadiene is essential for producing SBR and BR, with global capacities of 6.8 million tons/year for SBR and 5.2 million tons/year for BR, primarily used in automotive tires [3] - The shift towards bio-based butadiene is driven by the need for carbon reduction in the rubber industry, with many leading synthetic rubber and tire companies exploring bio-based alternatives using ethanol as a feedstock [2][4] Technological Approaches - Two main technological routes are being pursued for the production of bio-based butadiene: - Route 1: Efficient synthesis of butadiene from ethanol through chemical catalysis, in collaboration with AIST, facing challenges such as catalyst carbon deposition and cost optimization of high-purity ethanol [4] - Route 2: Direct synthesis from sugars or butanediol using enzyme catalysis or microbial metabolism, which is currently limited to laboratory or small-scale trials due to challenges in selectivity and production efficiency [5] Project Goals and Timeline - The pilot facility will validate the effectiveness of new high-efficiency catalysts for converting bio-based ethanol into butadiene, with Zeon planning to use the produced butadiene for prototype polybutadiene rubber products [6] - The project aims to complete process validation by 2030 and achieve industrialization by 2034, providing innovative solutions to reduce petroleum dependency in the global tire industry and support carbon neutrality goals [8] Related Industry Developments - Other companies, such as Trinseo and Michelin, are also investing in bio-based butadiene production, with projects aimed at commercializing the use of bioethanol for butadiene production [10]