In early November, the Federal Environment Agency (UBA) published the report “Assessment of the Potentials and Evaluation of the Technologies for Thermo-Chemical Recycling of Plastics”. In the report, the UBA confirmed the superiority of all the processes examined compared to incineration. This appraisal is likely to have a significant impact on future investment decisions. “Chemical recycling of plastics in hi-tech, energy-integrated and optimized plants can certainly make a positive contribution to the circular economy. Compared to thermal treatment, it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
carboliq welcomes the UBA’s revised position on chemical recycling. The significant role of mechanical recycling underlined in the report is undisputed. Mechanical and chemical recycling must be considered as complementary processes. Decisions on investments and/or support projects should be based on unequivocal efficiency criteria. However, the evaluation method applied here falls short. Frequently it makes sense to use mechanical treatment followed by chemical processing. Some waste is not capable of mechanical recycling. For these materials, chemical processes should be used in the first stage so that the hydrocarbon, as a valuable resource, remains in the loop.
The pyrolysis and oiling processes examined were compared and evaluated on the basis of operating data from the plants used as well as comparative laboratory analyses. According to the findings, the oiling methods achieved a better relative result. At an equal level of technical maturity, the carboliq process is distinguished by a broader range of possible input materials as well as a greater liquid yield.
The shareholders and management of carboliq are delighted with the positive verdict on the technology. They are now ready to take the next steps toward a first industrial application.
About carboliq
carboliq GmbH manufactures and operates plants for oiling waste with a high calorific value. The process applied is robust and suitable for unsorted as well as contaminated plastic waste. A pilot plant in continuous operation at the waste treatment facility in Ennigerloh demonstrates the high level of technical maturity of the technology. On an industrial scale, it produces oil from wastes which were previously only suitable for thermal utilization. The oil is in demand as a circular resource for the petrochemical industry and as a raw material for the production of premium-grade plastics. The company is headquartered in Remscheid. www.carboliq.com
About SÜDPACK
SÜDPACK, a leading manufacturer of high-tech films and packaging materials for the food, non-food, and medical goods industries, is the majority shareholder in carboliq. The family business is headquartered in Ochsenhausen. Production sites in Germany, France, Poland, Switzerland and the USA manufacture to the highest standards, including the capacity to operate under clean room conditions. The global sales and service network ensures a high degree of proximity to the customer and comprehensive application technology support in more than 70 countries. For its sustainable product developments and consistent commitment to a functioning circular economy in the plastics industry, SÜDPACK has received numerous awards.
