Wedoany.com Report on Mar 14th, Clariant, Borealis, and the Norwegian research institution SINTEF have successfully piloted a pyrolysis oil upgrading technology aimed at advancing the plastic circular economy. This technology utilizes Clariant's HDMax catalyst to convert pyrolysis oil derived from plastic waste into high-quality feedstock that meets the quality standards for steam crackers, validating a simplified and efficient process route.
In pilot tests conducted at SINTEF's research facilities in Norway, the HDMax catalyst achieved full conversion of key parameters, including diene saturation and contaminant removal, with all product quality specifications being met. This indicates the technology's readiness for industrial application. Jean Miller, Vice President of Ethylene Business at Clariant Catalysts, stated: "This collaboration proves that closed-loop plastic recycling can operate on an industrial scale. The HDMax catalyst helps transform plastic waste into qualified feedstock, creating a circular pathway for plastics."
The advantage of the HDMax technology lies in requiring only a single multi-layer hydrotreating reactor to meet specifications, whereas alternative solutions typically need multiple reactors. This reduces capital investment, operational complexity, and energy consumption. The technology also supports hydrocracking to produce naphtha-like fractions, enhancing process flexibility and efficiency.
The tripartite collaboration integrated their respective expertise: Clariant provided the HDMax and HYDEX™ catalysts, Borealis contributed polyolefin production knowledge and defined the pyrolysis oil quality targets, while SINTEF was responsible for pilot testing and validation. This achievement demonstrates a feasible pathway for reintegrating recycled plastic materials into industrial production, supporting the transition to a circular economy and ensuring that plastic recycling does not compromise quality. The combined expertise of the partners lays the foundation for further technology development and commercialization.
