Large scale Polystyrene recycling solutions

Sulzer Chemtech is partnering with VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland to commercialize comprehensive polystyrene (PS) recycling solutions, bringing the industry a step closer to making PS a fully circular product. The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance the development and popularization of a processing train that converts poorly recycled waste PS into high-purity styrene suitable for producing various grades of styrenic polymers, including those with stringent food-related requirements.

PS is commonly used in single-use products, such as packaging and food containers, and has a low recycling rate. However, the collaboration between Sulzer Chemtech and VTT aims to change this by providing a complete system for converting waste PS into high-quality styrene, which can then be used to produce new grades of polymers. The system will rely on VTT's patented pyrolysis-based depolymerization solution and Sulzer Chemtech's SuReTM Styrene purification technology.

The collaboration will provide PS manufacturers and recyclers with a complete setup to increase the range of feedstock material supported by their plants, improving sustainability and product quality. Sulzer Chemtech will act as the main licensor, providing full process solutions to customers, including basic engineering services, supply of key equipment, and skid-mounted modular units.

"We are excited to expand our licensed technology portfolio by integrating the VTT’s cutting-edge PS chemical recycling technology to further attest our commitment to sustainability," said Patrick Farquet, Head of Renewables and Bio-based Applications at Sulzer Chemtech. "It will get us and the entire industry a step closer to making PS a fully circular product."

Jarmo Ropponen, Vice President of Industrial Chemistry at VTT, added: "Sulzer Chemtech has an excellent track-record with projects aimed at driving circularity in the (bio)-polymer and plastic sectors. For VTT, Sulzer Chemtech is an ideal industrial partner to drive the global adoption of PS chemical recycling facilities. We look forward to working together to develop more sustainable plastics and bring positive change in the sector."