TotalEnergies Corbion and Useon to advance development of EPLA molded products

EPLA (Expanded PLA) is a plant-based, industrially compostable material designed for packaging, thermal protection, and other molded applications. Developed using Useon's direct bead foaming technology and TotalEnergies Corbion's Luminy® PLA, EPLA adds a circular solution to the EPS foams market.

Hao Ding, global marketing director of TotalEnergies Corbion, which produces Luminy® PLA, said, 'Useon's technical leadership in foam extrusion, combined with the performance and sustainability of Luminy® PLA, offers the market a new product range (EPLA) that testifies to the power of collaboration in delivering reduced carbon footprint solutions without compromising functionality and quality.'

EPLA foam products are lightweight, protective, and durable – making them suitable for packaging, food service, and cold-chain applications. EPLA breaks down into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass under industrial composting conditions.

'With EPLA, businesses now have access to a foam material that performs well and also aligns with growing regulatory and consumer demand for circular, climate-responsible alternatives,' said Mr. Chen Zhiqiang, CEO of Useon. He continued, 'We are excited to team up with TotalEnergies Corbion and drive the adoption of molded PLA foam at scale. The combination of direct bead foaming and high-quality bioplastics enables sustainable innovation across the packaging industry and beyond. Together, we are redefining what's possible in foam applications.'

As part of the agreement, both companies will promote EPLA technology globally, share application developments and market insights, and collaborate on new product innovation. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to accelerating the transition toward renewable materials and circular business models.

The collaboration was highlighted at Chinaplas 2025, where Useon and TotalEnergies Corbion showcased EPLA foam.