SK Leaveo

SK leaveo, a subsidiary of SKC Ltd., specializes in the production of high-strength, biodegradable materials, primarily Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate (PBAT). Formerly known as Ecovance, the company was established in November 2021 as a joint venture between SKC, Daesang Corp., and LX International Corp, though SKC and Daesang are now the primary shareholders. The company was officially renamed SK leaveo in April 2024 to reflect its core business model of creating products that biodegrade and leave zero waste. Hojin Yang serves as the CEO of SK leaveo.

The company's main product is a high-strength PBAT developed using a proprietary technology that incorporates nano-cellulose from trees as a reinforcing agent. This process significantly improves the material's durability compared to conventional PBAT, expanding its applications. SK leaveo's PBAT is designed for use in a wide range of products including agricultural films, packaging, containers, non-woven fabrics for personal hygiene items like diapers and wipes, and as a coating for slow-release fertilizers. The business operates on a B2B model, supplying its biodegradable solutions to various industries. The material has received certifications for industrial and home compostability from TUV Austria and is targeting a soil biodegradable certificate by the end of 2024.

SK leaveo is in the process of commercializing its technology with the construction of the world's largest PBAT production facility in Hai Phong, Vietnam. The plant, representing an initial investment of about $100 million, is designed to have an annual production capacity of 70,000 tons and is scheduled to begin operations in the third quarter of 2025. This facility will run on renewable energy to ensure an eco-friendly production process. The company is also set to merge with its affiliate, SK Tbmgeostone, to enhance its capabilities in producing biodegradable LIMEX, a material combining limestone with PBAT resin.

Keywords: biodegradable materials, PBAT, Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate, sustainable packaging, bioplastics, eco-friendly materials, nanocellulose, circular economy, chemical manufacturing, non-woven fabrics, hygiene products, agricultural film, slow-release fertilizer, material science, green technology, industrial compost, home compost, SKC subsidiary, plastic alternatives, sustainable manufacturing, polymer science