Bio-based olefin chain extender molecules for recycled polyolefins
Bio-derived olefin molecules designed to extend chains and increase bio-content in recycled polyolefins. Leverages C6+ olefins from hydrogenation, hydrodeoxygenation, and de-hydroxylation processes as drop-in chain extenders for circular polymer materials.
Overview
This technology focuses on producing bio-based olefin molecules that serve as chain extenders for cracked recycled polyolefins. By incorporating these olefins, the approach extends polymer chains and increases bio-based content over successive material recycling cycles. The solution leverages olefin streams generated through hydrogenation, hydrodeoxygenation, and de-hydroxylation processes, which commonly yield a range of C6+ olefins that can be directly integrated into polymer systems as drop-in additives. This enables more circular, higher-performance recycled polyolefin materials for industrial applications.
Technical specifications
- Bio-based olefin platforms derived from hydrogenation, hydrodeoxygenation, and de-hydroxylation pathways
- C6+ olefin molecules selected for compatibility with polyolefin chain extension
- Drop-in integration designed to work with existing recycled polyolefin processing workflows
- Dual functionality combining chain extension with increased bio-content across material cycles
- Platform approach allowing evaluation of multiple olefin candidates for optimal polymer performance
Technology readiness level
The olefin production platforms are currently at TRL 3 (experimental proof of concept). An approximately one-year validation program is planned to assess which olefin candidates perform most effectively as polymer chain extenders in recycled polyolefin systems. The research team has established expertise in bio-based olefin production and is positioned to advance toward higher readiness levels through targeted validation work.
About National Institute of Chemistry (Kemijski inštitut)
Slovenia’s National Institute of Chemistry (Kemijski inštitut) is a leading public research institute based in Ljubljana, bringing together multidisciplinary teams, advanced infrastructure, and close ties with universities to address industry‑relevant challenges. Industry partners engage through contract research, analytical services, collaborative projects, and access to shared facilities such as high‑field NMR, mass spectrometry, and advanced microscopy. Its location near established pharmaceutical and specialty‑chemical manufacturers in Slovenia and Central Europe supports agile partnering, talent pipelines, and rapid technology validation. Research is supported by competitive European Commission programs and national research funding. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and spinout support, offering clear pathways from discovery to deployment.
delivered to your inbox.