Sulzer has launched a new chemical recycling technology, EcoStyrene™, designed to process heavily contaminated polystyrene waste. The licensed technology addresses one of the sector’s ongoing challenges—recycling polystyrene materials that contain complex contaminants such as flame retardants and food residues.
Unlike traditional recycling methods, which require clean feedstock, EcoStyrene is capable of treating and transforming low-grade, contaminated polystyrene into reusable materials. The output, according to Sulzer, can be suitable for use in applications including food-contact products.
“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.”
EcoStyrene was developed in collaboration with a partner that brings commercial expertise in fluid-bed reactor technology. The partnership combined Sulzer’s background in polymer recycling with the reactor design capabilities of its collaborator, accelerating the commercialization timeline.
Sulzer Chemtech and its development partner are also working to establish a polystyrene recycling alliance across the value chain, engaging stakeholders from waste management to brand owners. The aim is to help chemical recyclers broaden the types of waste they can accept while contributing to sustainability goals and reducing landfill dependency.
With EcoStyrene now commercially available, operators have a new tool to unlock value from polystyrene streams that were previously not recyclable through conventional means.