Braskem Forges Alliance with TNO to Transform Polyolefin Plastic Residue Recycling

Braskem, a global leader in the production of petrochemicals, is proud to announce its partnership with the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) aimed at improving circularity and sustainability in the plastics industry. Under a Joint Development Agreement (JDA), Braskem and TNO will advance the research and development of the state-of-the-art Möbius dissolution-based recycling technology for polyolefin plastic residue waste streams.

The primary objective of this collaborative endeavor is to investigate the feasibility and scale-up potential of this innovative recycling process. By harnessing the power of dissolution-based technology, the project aims to transform the purification of plastic residues, effectively removing a wide array of impurities. This breakthrough promises to yield near-virgin grade polymer resin and 100% segregated product, thereby enhancing the value and application scope of recycled materials, e.g. for food contact packaging.

“With our partnership with TNO, Braskem is reaffirming its unwavering commitment to sustainability and circularity. By developing advanced recycling technologies, we not only aim to combat plastic waste, but also to achieve a positive environmental impact throughout the value chain,” says Antonio Queiroz, Vice President of Innovation, Technology and Sustainable Development at Braskem.

The use of dissolution-based recycling is a promising approach to reducing plastic pollution and combating climate change. Studies have shown that this technology has better sustainability metrics compared to conventional recycling methods, which makes it even more attractive as an enabler for a greener future.

“We are excited to be working with Braskem on this great project. Through joint innovation, we aim to redefine the boundaries of plastics recycling and pave the way for a more sustainable and durable future,” says Richard Braal, Division Director Industry at TNO Energy and Materials Transition.

Braskem’s partnership with TNO is an example of the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainable innovation and the prevention of plastic waste. By leveraging innovative technologies and fostering strategic collaborations, Braskem continues to lead the way towards a circular and sustainable future.

About Braskem

With a global vision of the future, oriented towards people and sustainability, Braskem is engaged in contributing to the value chain in order to strengthen the Circular Economy. Its 8,000 team members dedicate themselves every day to improving people’s lives through sustainable solutions in chemicals and plastics. With its corporate DNA rooted in innovation, Braskem offers a comprehensive portfolio of plastic resins and chemical products for diverse industries, such as food packaging, construction, manufacturing, automotive, agribusiness, health and hygiene, and more. With 40 industrial units in Brazil, United States, Mexico and Germany and net revenue of R$52.3 billion (US$13.2 billion), Braskem exports its products to clients in over 100 countries.

About TNO

TNO is the largest independent research and technology organization in the Netherlands and one of the largest in the EU. We innovate, investigate, and orchestrate, collaborating closely with governments, universities and the private sector. We inform government on policies and empower evidence-based decision-making through rigorous investigations, cutting-edge scientific insights, and reliable measurements. By building national and international consortia and ecosystems, we drive technological and methodological breakthroughs that help to realize a secure, sustainable, healthy, and digital society, and strengthen the earning power of the Dutch economy.