Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the advancements in bio-based materials, particularly focusing on the production of bio-based butadiene and isoprene by major Japanese companies like Zeon Corp, aiming for carbon neutrality and a circular economy [1][2]. Group 1: Company Initiatives - Zeon Corp announced plans to establish a research facility for producing butadiene and isoprene directly from plant materials, aligning with its STAGE30 mid-term business plan [1]. - In February, Zeon partnered with Yokohama Rubber to build a pilot plant for the efficient conversion of bioethanol to butadiene, expected to be operational by 2026 [1][2]. - Other companies, such as Michelin and Trinseo, are also making strides in bio-based butadiene production, with Michelin planning an industrial-scale demonstration plant in early 2024 [6][7]. Group 2: Technological Approaches - The pilot plant focuses on two main technological routes: 1. Ethanol catalytic conversion to butadiene using dual-function catalysts, facing challenges like catalyst coking and cost optimization [2]. 2. Direct synthesis from sugars or butanediol through enzyme catalysis or microbial metabolism, which currently faces issues with byproduct formation and high production costs [2]. Group 3: Market Applications - Butadiene is primarily used in synthetic rubber production, including styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and nitrile rubber (NBR), with the largest application being in the production of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) copolymers [3][4]. - The shift towards bio-based rubber is a key focus for many companies, with bio-based butadiene and isoprene being critical components in this transition [5]. Group 4: Domestic Developments - In China, research on bio-based butadiene and isoprene is less common, with notable advancements from Beijing University of Chemical Technology in developing bio-based polybutylene succinate rubber [10][11]. - A demonstration production line for bio-based polybutylene succinate rubber has been established, showcasing its potential in green tire materials and other applications [11][12].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant advancements in the production of bio-based rubber and its key components, particularly focusing on the initiatives by major companies in Japan, the US, and Europe to transition towards sustainable materials in the rubber industry [1][2][3]. Group 1: Company Initiatives - Zeon Corporation is establishing a research plant to produce butadiene and isoprene directly from plant materials, aligning with its strategic goal of achieving carbon neutrality and a circular economy [1]. - Goodyear has partnered with VISOLIS to produce bio-based isoprene, while Arlanxeo has developed bio-based ethylene from sugarcane waste, achieving a 70% bio-based raw material ratio in their products [3][4]. - Michelin is opening its first industrial-scale bio-based butadiene production demonstration plant, aiming to commercialize the use of plant materials for butadiene production [7]. Group 2: Industry Trends - The global tire industry faces challenges with over 1 billion waste tires, with 6 million tons of tire wear particles contributing to marine plastic pollution [1]. - Developed countries, including the US, Japan, and Europe, are proactively planning the development of bio-based rubber as a substitute for natural rubber due to environmental pressures [2]. - The establishment of a 110,000-ton bio-based degradable polyester rubber project in Jiangsu, China, marks a significant step in the original rubber material sector, with a total investment of 1 billion yuan [10]. Group 3: Technological Developments - Beijing University of Chemical Technology has successfully developed a new generation of high-performance functionalized bio-based polyester-butadiene rubber, showing potential applications in green tire materials and other sectors [5]. - The research team at Beijing University has also created the world's first degradable polyester rubber and the first batch of degradable tires, indicating advancements in sustainable material technology [8].