5-HMF (5-Hydroxymethylfurfural) is a non-toxic, 100% bio-based monomer that opens the door to sustainable innovation. Structurally similar to an aromatic aldehyde, it combines a furan ring with aldehyde and alcohol functions, making it a highly versatile building block for an infinite range of green chemistry derivatives and polymers.
This unique combination of functions enables 5-HMF to replicate the performance of traditional petrochemical intermediates, offering significantly improved safety and environmental profiles.
Recognized as a green alternative to petroleum-based chemicals, 5-HMF offers:
An SVHC-free safety profile
Compatibility with industrial processes
The ability to replace formaldehyde in phenolic resins
Why MICHELIN ResiCare Invested in 5-HMF
Thanks to its similar chemistry and properties, we identified 5-HMF as a safe, bio-based substitute for formaldehyde in phenolic resins. However, sourcing options were limited as 5-HMF was scarce and prohibitively expensive in Europe.
Despite strong technical interest across multiple sectors, this lack of availability represented a major barrier to industrial adoption.
In order to ensure both industrial sovereignty and sustainability, we partnered with IFPEN to develop a fully sustainable process for producing 5-HMF from fructose derived from wheat, potato or corn starch.
From Lab to Industry: Cerisea Project
To make HMF accessible and affordable for industrial applications, we are scaling production through the Cerisea Project. This first-of-its-kind facility in Europe will produce 3,000 tons of industrial-grade 5-HMF per year starting early 2027, supplied in 95% purity as a water solution (65% titration).
This plant is not just for ResiCare—it is designed to support other manufacturers and accelerate the adoption of bio-based chemistry across industries. Cerisea marks the transition from innovation to real-world impact, making sustainable solutions available at scale.