Tailored glycerol-based solvents for selective recycling of multi-layer polymer packaging
Developed green-chemistry solvent formulations for recycling multi-layer packaging. Tuned glycerol-based solvents selectively dissolve targeted polymers and associated components from complex films, enabling purification and reuse. The approach emphasizes environmentally friendly, cost-effective operation and compatibility with existing recycling processes. Technology readiness is TRL 5, with planned further validation and technoeconomic assessment for specific packaging materials.
Overview
The solvent technology for recycling and purification of multi-layer packaging advances green chemistry and sustainable practices. The solvents are designed to interact with specific polymers, enabling selective dissolution of plastics and other components from complex multi-layer films. A key advantage is the tunability of glycerol-based solvent formulations, which supports effective performance while maintaining an environmentally friendly and cost-efficient profile.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Tailored solvent formulations based on modifications to glycerol
- Selective dissolution of plastics and components in multi-layer packaging
- Environmentally friendly and cost-effective compared to conventional solvents
- Designed for compatibility with existing recycling processes
The solvents are developed using green chemistry principles and abundant raw materials to support sustainability. Tunability enables targeting of different polymers, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the recycling process.
Technology readiness level
The technology is at TRL 5, indicating validation in a relevant environment. Future validation plans include additional work to optimize solvent formulations for specific packaging materials, evaluate performance under various conditions, and conduct technoeconomic analyses for potential commercial applications.
About ION Engineering / ION Clean Energy
ION Clean Energy is a technology company specializing in post-combustion carbon capture solutions for power generation and industrial point sources. The company developed the ICE-31 capture system, which utilizes a proprietary liquid amine solvent to achieve over 99% carbon capture efficiency. This technology is designed to operate with lower energy requirements, reduced capital and operating costs, and high solvent stability, while maintaining virtually undetectable emissions. ION provides a range of offerings including custom-engineered large-scale capture systems and modular ICE Blocks units for smaller emissions sources. Their approach integrates specialized solvent technology with advanced engineering to address the needs of hard-to-abate industrial sectors.
ION’s solutions are critical for partners and customers aiming to meet decarbonization goals and energy demands, particularly as infrastructure for data centers and AI expands. By enabling the production of clean, firm power through natural gas and biomass with carbon capture, the company helps emitters manage their carbon intensity and monetize environmental attributes. ION has demonstrated its technology through over 20,000 hours of pilot testing across diverse facilities, including natural gas combined cycle plants. The company supports project development through an extensive network of partners and financing expertise, positioning itself as a comprehensive enabler for carbon capture project deployment.
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