Emirates Biotech has signed a key equipment supply contract with Sulzer for its Falcon PLA Project, marking a shift from planning to execution for what will become the world’s largest polylactic acid (PLA) facility.
The contract follows a licensing agreement between the two companies in December 2024. Sulzer will supply the critical proprietary equipment used in PLA production, including systems for lactide formation, purification, and polymerization.
“Signing this equipment supply contract with Sulzer represents a decisive step forward for Emirates Biotech,” said Marc Verbruggen, CEO of Emirates Biotech. “With proprietary equipment now secured, we are firmly entering the execution phase. This is a major commitment — not just financially, but strategically — as we lay the foundation for a state-of-the-art PLA facility that will anchor the region’s transition to sustainable materials.”
Sulzer, known for its separation and polymerization technology, will deliver a full suite of equipment designed to optimize efficiency and energy use.
“We are proud to further advance our ongoing collaboration with Emirates Biotech on this pioneering project,” said Tim Schulten, Division President, Sulzer Chemtech. “This project represents the kind of bold, solutions-driven investment that can make a real difference.”
Samsung E&A will handle overall plant construction, integrating Sulzer’s systems into the broader facility. With this contract, Emirates Biotech’s investment in the Falcon PLA Project has now exceeded USD 90 million. Construction is set to begin in late 2025, with operations targeted for early 2028.