SUSTAIN

From waste to recyclable material: concepts for the depolymerization and recycling of bio-based polymers

Duration from 1.1.2024 - 31.12.2026, funded by the Cooperative Excellence program of the Leibniz Association under the funding code (FKZ) K522/2023.

Bio-based polymers are becoming increasingly important as a substitute for materials derived from crude oil. Accordingly, the possibilities of degrading bio-based polymers and reusing the available components, i.e. the monomers, are becoming increasingly important. The development of appropriate processes could thus enable a complete circular economy. In addition to thermal reuse, chemical recycling, with which basic materials can actually be recovered, is of decisive importance. Depolymerization into monomeric and oligomeric building blocks would directly provide starting materials for renewed polymerization. The project, led by the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis, is tackling this challenge and investigating various chemical and technical approaches of varying degrees of maturity. One of the promising methods being investigated at the INP is the use of plasma processes. The research efforts are carried out in close cooperation with partners from the Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research and the University of Paderborn. The focus is on the conversion of bio-based polyurethanes, carbonates, amides and esters.