EcoStyrene addresses a key challenge in the chemical recycling industry by processing polystyrene waste with contaminants like flame retardants and food residues, which traditional methods struggle to handle. Unlike conventional recycling that requires clean feedstock, this technology efficiently converts previously unrecyclable materials into high-quality resources, supporting a circular economy.
“We’re excited to bring this transformative technology to market,” said Ilja Mikenberg, Global Head of Process Solutions at Sulzer Chemtech. “The chemical recycling sector has been seeking sustainable solutions for contaminated plastic waste management, and our EcoStyrene technology provides a practical, economically viable answer even for the most challenging feedstock.”
Developed in collaboration with a leading provider of fluid-bed reactor technology, EcoStyrene combines Sulzer’s expertise in polymer recycling with proven reactor systems. This partnership has accelerated the technology’s development, enabling its commercial launch. The initiative builds on Sulzer’s commitment to sustainability, following its recent joint venture with Sika to recycle construction materials.
Sulzer Chemtech and its partner are forming a polystyrene alliance, engaging stakeholders across the value chain—from waste managers to brand owners—to maximize the technology’s impact. “This alliance aims to create a robust ecosystem for polystyrene recycling, turning waste into valuable resources,” a Sulzer spokesperson stated. The technology allows chemical recycling operators to process a broader range of feedstock, reduce environmental impact, and meet sustainability goals while generating value from materials once deemed unusable.
By enabling the recycling of contaminated polystyrene, EcoStyrene supports industries in reducing waste and advancing sustainable practices. The technology’s ability to produce high-quality materials for diverse applications, including food-safe products, positions it as a significant step toward a more sustainable plastics industry.
