Fraunhofer xPBS: Exploring Biobased Foam for Packaging

Industry Insights · Materials Innovation

Fraunhofer CCPE reports that its xPBS project has developed a biobased polybutylene succinate (PBS) extrusion foam. Potential applications include packaging, transport protection and construction, where it could replace polyethylene foam in selected uses.

According to the researchers, the foam can run on existing extrusion equipment without major modifications. Production trials at near-industrial scale achieved stable processing and densities comparable to established LDPE foams.

Fraunhofer describes the material as biodegradable and recyclable because of its thermoplastic nature. The announcement does not specify degradation conditions or establish that every finished product has compostability certification.

The follow-on xPBS-food project began in January 2026 to develop a PBS foam packaging solution meeting food-contact, functional and sensory requirements. For packaging buyers, this is a development to watch as application validation progresses.

Adapted from Fraunhofer CCPE’s press release dated April 15, 2026. Read the original in German: Biobasierter Schaumstoff ersetzt erdölbasierte Materialien – ohne Umbau der Produktion →