Selenis is set to expand its industrial headquarters in Portalegre, Portugal, aiming to double the site’s production capacity by the third quarter of 2027.
The project is focused on scaling up manufacturing for bio-based, medical-grade, and circular co-polyesters.
The expansion comes as new EU packaging regulations are set to require all packaging on the market to be recyclable by 2030, with targets for recycled content and enhanced traceability.
The company aims to meet these demands through increased output of recycled polyester, offering both chemically recycled post-consumer resin and ISCC+ biomass balance solutions that adhere to European traceability standards.
Selenis CEO Duarte Gil said: "This expansion is a bold step forward. We are doubling our capacity to meet accelerating demand while ensuring we remain fully aligned with the evolving European regulatory framework. Circularity is no longer just a concept; it is our industrial reality."
A key part of the upgrade involves the installation of a continuous polymerisation (CP) line alongside Selenis’ existing batch production setup.
This addition is intended to streamline manufacturing processes, improve energy efficiency, and reduce dependence on natural gas through greater electrification.
The majority of the facility’s electricity use will be supplied by an on-site solar park.
The additional capacity is expected to address demand from food, healthcare, and textile industries seeking alternatives with lower carbon footprints.
Selenis' chief operating officer Carlos Paiva commented: “This expansion is built on a foundation of measurable environmental progress. By adopting continuous polymerisation, we are drastically reducing the energy intensity of every tonne we produce, while our shift towards electrification and reduced natural gas consumption fundamentally lowers our carbon footprint.
“When paired with our on-site solar farm, these strategic areas ensure that our growth remains firmly aligned with long-term global decarbonisation objectives.”
In 2024, Selenis worked with UPM Biochemicals and Bormioli Pharma to develop partially wood-based PET bottles for pharmaceutical use.
