France is about to make a bio-based molecule at industrial scale. Michelin ResiCare is building the production line at Ajinomoto’s site in Nesle, in the Somme region. It is part of the DragonFly project.
DragonFly aims to make an aromatic monomer through fermentation. Microorganisms do the work instead of petrochemical processes. The monomer will go into resins developed by Michelin ResiCare.
The microorganism strain was developed with Alderys, a Givaudan Group company. An earlier initiative called BioImpulse validated its performance at industrial scale.
Work to date suggests emissions could fall by up to 96% versus the fossil-based equivalent. The companies say France would gain a competitive industrial value chain that is unique in the world.
Construction began in May 2026. The partnership between Michelin ResiCare and Ajinomoto was signed in April. Commissioning is planned for the beginning of the second quarter of 2027. The facility will test the technology under real-world operating conditions.
Ajinomoto chose Nesle for two reasons. The site already has industrial infrastructure. The company also has recognized expertise in running industrial fermentation processes for high-value molecules.
DragonFly follows Cerisea, a project to build Europe’s first 5-HMF production value chain. Together, the projects aim to secure supply of two strategic monomers for Michelin ResiCare’s next-generation resins. The companies also point to stronger European industrial sovereignty over critical raw materials.
The bio-based resins are meant for construction and furniture, composites, electronics, automotive and transportation, aerospace, and space industries.
Yves Duquesnoy, managing director of Ajinomoto Foods Europe, said the project fits the company’s diversification strategy. He described it as a sign of confidence in Ajinomoto’s fermentation services. Laurent Lemonnier, CEO of Michelin ResiCare, said the project turns years of research into a tangible industrial project. He said the company is ready to meet future customer demand.
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- Source: https://worldbiomarketinsights.com/michelin-resicare-to-make-a-bio-based-monomer-by-fermentation/
