Plastic Recycling Plant – Celanese and Li Auto Team Up to Cut Cabin Emissions in EVs Revolutionary Low-Emission POM Launches This May Celanese Corporation and Li Auto have officially partnered to roll out Hostaform® POM XAP®3, a next-generation low-emission polymer designed to drastically improve air quality inside electric vehicles (EVs). 05-05-2025 - Archive
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PET-Bottle Recycling – OMV Launches Austria’s Largest Green Hydrogen Plant at Schwechat A Major Milestone in Austria’s Energy Transition OMV, Austria’s leading energy and petrochemical company, has officially launched the country’s largest green hydrogen plant
Crude Oil Prices Trend
DePoly Secures $23M to Open PET Recycling Plant in Switzerland
Transforming Plastic Waste Into Circular Solutions
Swiss cleantech startup DePoly has just raised a $23 million Seed round to revolutionize how we recycle plastic. The funding will fuel the launch of the company’s first industrial-scale PET (polyethylene terephthalate) recycling plant in Monthey, Switzerland, scheduled to open in summer 2025.
Unlike traditional mechanical recycling, DePoly’s innovative process chemically breaks down PET and polyester plastics into their original monomers — all without using fossil fuels. This means that used plastics can be fully regenerated into high-quality materials, creating a closed-loop, circular system. Plastic Recycling Plant
Strategic Investors Join the Mission
This significant Seed round was led by MassMutual Ventures, marking a strong international endorsement of DePoly’s vision. The round also included participation from existing investors like:
- BASF Venture Capital
- Beiersdorf Venture Capital
- Zürcher Kantonalbank
By expanding its investor base into the U.S., DePoly is laying the groundwork for global expansion in the years ahead.
“We are happy to have expanded our investor base to the US with MassMutual Ventures as we want to build a global champion,” said David Hanf, Chief Financial Officer, who joined the company in 2024.
Scaling with a 500-Tonne Pilot Plant
The upcoming Monthey plant will have the capacity to recycle 500 tonnes of plastic annually. This demonstration facility will serve as a proving ground for DePoly’s chemical recycling process at scale, helping the company validate its technology in real-world industrial conditions. Plastic Recycling Plant
This is a crucial milestone on the company’s roadmap, as it prepares to build a commercial-scale facility capable of handling significantly higher volumes of plastic waste.
“The upcoming showcase plant validates our roadmap to creating a truly circular plastics market,” said Samantha Anderson, Co-Founder and CEO. “Following our pilot and showcase plant, our next goal is to scale our operations to industrial size with a first-of-its-kind commercial plant based on our technology.”
A Breakthrough in Plastic Recycling Technology
DePoly’s core innovation lies in chemical recycling, which contrasts with the conventional approach of mechanically shredding plastics. Rather than producing low-grade recycled materials, DePoly’s method restores PET and polyester to their base molecular form. These monomers can then be reused to manufacture new, virgin-quality plastics — eliminating the need for petroleum-based inputs. Plastic Recycling Plant
“DePoly’s proven technology is a game changer addressing a crucial industrial and societal challenge,” said Alix Brunet, Europe Lead at MassMutual Ventures.
Industry Partnerships Across Sectors
DePoly is already working with major brands and industry leaders to bring its solution to market. Current collaborations include:
- Odlo (fashion and apparel)
- PTI (consumer goods packaging)
- Beiersdorf (cosmetics)
These partnerships signal that demand for sustainable, circular plastic solutions is strong across sectors — and that DePoly is well-positioned to deliver. Plastic Recycling Plant
Looking Ahead: A Circular Plastics Economy
As governments, companies, and consumers look for scalable ways to tackle plastic pollution, DePoly stands out as a fast-scaling, scientifically robust solution. With a pilot plant underway and commercial-scale ambitions in sight, the company is taking a bold step toward transforming global plastic recycling.
Its founders and backers believe that, with continued growth, DePoly’s technology will compete with virgin plastic pricing, making sustainability not only practical — but economically viable. Plastic Recycling Plant
Final Thoughts
DePoly’s $23M Seed round marks a pivotal moment for circular plastic recycling. With a cutting-edge process and strong backing from global investors, the company is poised to make lasting change — starting with a small Swiss town and aiming for the world.
Stay tuned as the Monthey plant begins operations in 2025 — and DePoly leads the charge toward a more sustainable, circular future for plastics.
thyssenkrupp Uhde and Praj Industries Join Forces to Advance Sustainable PLA Production
A Strategic Alliance for a Greener Tomorrow
In a powerful move toward sustainable manufacturing, thyssenkrupp Uhde’s polymer division, Uhde Inventa-Fischer (UIF), and Praj Industries Ltd. (PIL) of Pune, India, have announced a strategic partnership to revolutionize Polylactic Acid (PLA) production.
This end-to-end collaboration unites industrial biotechnology and chemical engineering expertise to provide a unique, fully integrated PLA technology platform.
This game-changing alliance brings a seamless solution to the global bioplastics market—one that addresses efficiency, cost, and environmental impact in equal measure.
Why PLA Matters: Powering the Circular Bioeconomy
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable, bio-based plastic derived from renewable resources. Plastic Recycling Plant
As the world seeks alternatives to conventional fossil-fuel plastics, PLA stands out for its potential to reduce carbon footprints and support a circular bioeconomy.
Recognizing this opportunity, thyssenkrupp Uhde and Praj Industries are combining forces to refine and scale PLA technology. Their joint aim is to deliver scalable, cost-effective solutions that can be implemented globally across multiple industries.
Merging World-Class Technologies
“We see a perfect match of two world-leading technologies,” says Nadja Håkansson, CEO of thyssenkrupp Uhde.
The partnership fuses Uhde’s PLAneo® process with Praj’s lactic acid production technology, enabling the design and delivery of complete PLA plants. This unified approach will simplify the production pipeline from feedstock to polymer, unlocking new opportunities in bioplastics manufacturing. Plastic Recycling Plant
“Together, we can offer a competitive solution to replace conventional plastics with sustainable alternatives,” Håkansson adds.
Biomanufacturing for a Sustainable Future
Dr. Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj Industries, highlights the synergy between this partnership and Praj’s BioPrism™ portfolio, which focuses on renewable chemicals and materials, including bioplastics.
“Our collaboration with Uhde represents a key milestone in transitioning toward a circular economy,” says Dr. Chaudhari. “With our proprietary PLANERA™ technology and Uhde’s advanced processes, we are tackling the global challenge of fossil-based plastics head-on.” Plastic Recycling Plant
This strategic alliance is set to drive cost-effective biomanufacturing, reduce environmental impact, and lay the foundation for future biorefineries.
Versatility in Products and Applications
The new integrated PLA production technology can process a wide variety of agricultural feedstocks, including:
- Starch- and sugar-based inputs
- Second-generation, non-food biomass
This flexibility ensures that the process can adapt to local resources worldwide, enhancing its global applicability.
The partnership will support the production of different grades of lactic acid, suitable for both food and industrial applications. Moreover, it enables the creation of a broad range of PLA grades tailored to specific uses such as:
- Packaging
- Textiles
- Hygiene and medical products
Real-World Validation at India’s First Biopolymer Demo Facility
A major boost to this partnership is Praj’s newly inaugurated Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers near Pune, India. This state-of-the-art site is already producing lactic acid and lactide, offering a vital platform to test, validate, and showcase the new joint PLA technology. Plastic Recycling Plant
The facility allows real-time refinement of processes and provides a springboard for commercial-scale implementation, accelerating the global adoption of sustainable bioplastics.
A Shared Vision Rooted in Sustainability
At its core, this collaboration is driven by a shared commitment to environmental stewardship. With growing global demand for eco-friendly materials, thyssenkrupp Uhde and Praj Industries are well-positioned to lead the transition from conventional plastics to bio-based, degradable alternatives.
Their unified platform not only addresses technological and economic hurdles but also reinforces the broader mission of building a cleaner, circular, and more sustainable future.
Kraton Launches CirKular+ Paving Circularity Series to Advance Sustainable Road Building
Celebrating five years of CirKular+, Kraton Corporation introduces a new solution for greener, more circular paving practices. Plastic Recycling Plant
Kraton Corporation, a global leader in specialty polymers and pine chemicals, has unveiled its new CirKular+ Paving Circularity Series to mark the fifth anniversary of its CirKular+ product line. This innovative series is designed to help the paving industry increase its use of reclaimed materials while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions — two key objectives in the global move toward sustainable infrastructure.
Designed for High Performance and Sustainability
The CirKular+ Paving Circularity Series is engineered to incorporate up to 50% or more reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) into asphalt surface layers. This not only promotes sustainability through material reuse but also enhances processing efficiency and overall pavement performance. Plastic Recycling Plant
At the heart of the new series is C5000, a next-generation solution that improves the durability of polymer-modified asphalt. It maintains high resistance to permanent deformation, making it a robust option for road surfaces subjected to heavy use. Importantly, C5000 is also compatible with Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) technologies — further supporting energy efficiency and emission reductions during production.
Supporting Circularity Goals in Europe and Beyond
Pedro Lopes, Kraton’s Global VP of Strategic Marketing, Product Management, and Supply Chain, emphasized the company’s broader mission:
“Launching the Paving Circularity Series is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and innovation. Plastic Recycling Plant
In Europe, the paving industry is actively working to increase circularity and reduce GHG emissions in alignment with the European Green Deal and the EU’s 2050 climate neutrality goals.”
The new series enables polymer-modified bitumen (PMB) producers and contractors to boost reclaimed asphalt usage, making it easier to reintroduce these materials into road surface layers — a crucial step toward circular economy practices in infrastructure development.
Driving Forward Kraton’s Green Vision
This latest expansion of the CirKular+ line reflects Kraton’s long-term vision: delivering innovative, sustainable solutions that meet the evolving needs of industries worldwide. As governments and businesses set more aggressive climate targets, the CirKular+ Paving Circularity Series positions Kraton at the forefront of eco-conscious materials technology.
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EU Car Market Shrinks in Q1 2025 Despite Strong EV and Hybrid Growth
Overall Car Sales Dip 1.9% Across the European Union
The European car market hit a slight speed bump in the first quarter of 2025. According to the latest data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), new car registrations across the EU declined by 1.9% compared to the same period in 2024.
March alone showed a modest 0.2% year-on-year decrease, signaling ongoing challenges for the industry amid economic uncertainty, fluctuating supply chains, and shifting consumer demand. Plastic Recycling Plant
Electric Vehicle Sales Power Through the Slump
Despite the broader downturn, battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) emerged as a bright spot. Sales of BEVs soared by 23.9% year-over-year, totaling over 412,000 units. These vehicles now account for 15.2% of all new car sales, up from 12% in Q1 2024.
Notably, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands led the charge with robust growth, while France bucked the trend with a 6.6% drop in BEV sales.
Hybrids Dominate Market Share
Hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) remain the most popular drivetrain in the EU, securing a commanding 35.5% market share. Nearly 1 million hybrid cars were registered in Q1, further highlighting the region’s accelerating shift toward electrification.
Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) also saw moderate gains, increasing their market share to 7.6%, reflecting steady—but slower—adoption compared to fully electric or traditional hybrids. Plastic Recycling Plant
Combustion Engines in Steep Decline
The biggest losers in the Q1 market were petrol and diesel vehicles. Combined, they accounted for just 38.3% of the market, a sharp drop from 48.3% a year ago.
- Petrol car registrations fell by 20.6%
- Diesel dropped even further, down 27.1%
These figures underscore a significant pivot away from fossil fuel vehicles as consumers and governments alike push toward cleaner mobility solutions.
Final Insight: A Market in Transition
The Q1 2025 data paints a clear picture of a market in flux. While overall car sales have declined, the surging popularity of hybrid and electric vehicles suggests a powerful long-term transformation is well underway.
For automakers and buyers alike, the shift to low-emission mobility isn’t just coming—it’s here. Plastic Recycling Plant
Celanese and Li Auto Team Up to Cut Cabin Emissions in EVs
Revolutionary Low-Emission POM Launches This May
Celanese Corporation and Li Auto have officially partnered to roll out Hostaform® POM XAP®3, a next-generation low-emission polymer designed to drastically improve air quality inside electric vehicles (EVs). The innovative material is set to launch in May and will feature prominently in cabin components of Li Auto’s upcoming vehicle models.
90% Reduction in Formaldehyde Emissions
At the heart of this collaboration is a shared mission to enhance passenger health and comfort. Hostaform® POM XAP®3 reduces formaldehyde emissions by up to 90% compared to standard polyoxymethylene (POM) materials currently used in the automotive industry. This significant reduction marks a major step forward in meeting growing consumer demands for healthier in-cabin environments. Plastic Recycling Plant
Celanese achieves this performance leap through its third-generation low-emission technology platform, reflecting years of R&D and a strong commitment to sustainability.
Elevating Passenger Comfort and Air Quality
Li Auto, a fast-growing Chinese EV manufacturer, is directly responding to heightened consumer awareness around air quality, especially in enclosed spaces like vehicle cabins. By integrating Celanese’s advanced material into their interior components, Li Auto aims to deliver vehicles that not only perform well but also promote well-being for drivers and passengers alike.
The collaboration represents a holistic approach, combining high-performance materials with innovative design to enrich the overall driving experience.
Strengthening Celanese’s Presence in China’s NEV Market
This partnership also supports Celanese’s strategic expansion into China’s booming new energy vehicle (NEV) market. Plastic Recycling Plant
As the demand for electric vehicles surges, suppliers who offer sustainable, health-conscious solutions are well-positioned for growth.
By aligning with a leading EV brand like Li Auto, Celanese reinforces its role as a key materials innovator in the automotive sector, particularly in areas where performance, safety, and environmental health intersect.
Final Thought:
As more EV buyers prioritize health and sustainability, partnerships like the one between Celanese and Li Auto will likely set the standard for next-generation mobility solutions. Expect to see materials like Hostaform® POM XAP®3 become a benchmark in future automotive design. Plastic Recycling Plant
