Evonik and Oerlikon have announced a collaboration to advance the chemical recycling of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste. The partnership focuses on developing innovative technologies for efficient depolymerization and purification processes, alongside an integrated approach for repolymerization and related EPC business models. The goal is to create sustainable and cost-effective solutions to expand the reach of the PET value chain.
Oerlikon intends to roll out the complete solution by the end of this decade, involving additional partners for feedstock, technology, and production. The technology will also be offered to third parties to support the growth of PET as a sustainable, circular plastic without ecological or economic drawbacks.
“This collaboration represents a major step forward in chemical recycling for PET,” said Max Preisenberger, Head of Catalysts at Evonik. “Our advanced catalytic processes and chemical technologies complement existing mechanical recycling methods, enabling high recycled PET content from heavily contaminated and mixed PET waste that would otherwise be landfilled or incinerated. This directly contributes to a sustainable circular economy.”
Georg Stausberg, CEO of Oerlikon Manmade Fibers Solutions, added, “With Evonik as a strong and experienced partner in specialty chemicals, we are confident in establishing a prominent position as a comprehensive solution provider in the growing market for chemical recycling of PET. Together, we aim to drive the next wave of sustainability in the plastics industry.”
The two companies aim to fully commercialize their jointly developed chemical recycling technology by the end of the decade. They plan to actively involve other companies in the ecosystem, including feedstock suppliers, technology providers, and production partners, and establish a global network of development partners.
This PET recycling technology offers significant advantages, including high efficiency and seamless integration into existing PET production processes. The focus is on reducing operational and investment costs while ensuring scalability. The combination of expertise in catalyst and process technologies will facilitate the recycling of polyester materials from both closed- and open-loop sources, achieving high-quality, fossil-like recyclates through chemical processes.
