The companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance the development of a fully integrated processing train that converts poorly recycled waste PS into high-purity styrene suitable to produce various grades of styrenic polymers, including food-related applications with stringent, low volatile organic compound (VOC) requirements.

The system will be based on VTT’s patented pyrolysis-based depolymerization process and Sulzer Chemtech’s SuRe styrene purification technology. Sulzer Chemtech will act as the main licensor and provide services such as basic engineering, supply of key equipment and skid-mounted modular units.

Patrick Farquet, head of renewables and bio-based applications at Sulzer Chemtech, said the technology will get the industry a step closer to making PS a fully circular product.

PS manufacturers and recyclers will benefit in the near future from a complete setup to increase the range of feedstock material supported by their plants, ultimately enabling them to improve their sustainability and product quality, the partners said.

Author: Elaine Burridge, Freelance Journalist