IEC 61499 projects

Objectives

The value chain of PET is quite complex, and involves several steps that already links in cross-sectorial interactions multiple companies across the European and worldwide market.

It is at the end of that life cycle that DEMETO proposes its innovative technology: the first feasible and sustainable (economically, environmentally and socially) industrial application of chemical treatment for reuse of PET plastics waste streams. Thanks to a process intensifying approach based on innovative usage of microwave radiations, DEMETO’s recycling technology will provide an indefinite life to PET, allowing to come back to its composing elements (Ethylene Glycol, EG, and Terephtalic Acid, PTA) without degrading the materials and, consequently, paving the way for a disruptive, large-scale circular economy for plastic products, which can be then transferred to other plastic materials, such as polycarbonate, polyamide, Nylon, etc.

Scientific Objectives:

• Recycle PET waste to the same monomers necessary for virgin PET production, being capable of elaborating bottles (even deep coloured ones), textiles and blended polymers.
• Reduce reaction time of PET chemical recycling from 180 minutes to 10 minutes while guaranteeing a continuously operating elaboration of material thanks to innovative Process Intensification.

Engineering Objectives:

• Design and deploy an industrial-grade prototype of Reactive Unit for de-polymerization based on modular and scalable technologies.
• Deploy a pilot plant and auxiliary facilities to demonstrate an overall self-consistent recycling process.

Business Development Objectives:

• Instantiate all required strategic relationship for the deployment of the business model, while establishing the foundations of the commercialization plan.
• Complete the Intellectual Property management plan, extending patent protection to strategic markets and through appropriate licensing agreements.