CuRe Technology – Low energy molecular polyester recycling
CuRe discovered a smarter and scalable technology to create a fully circular polyester chain. The CuRe solution wants to rejuvenate any type of used polyester by removing the color and converting it into clear pellets with the same properties as virgin grade polyester. CuRe has its own core technology but also allows for modular add on to other technologies, giving flexibility to choose the best route depending on the type of polyester waste. In July 2020 a pilot plant in Emmen (Netherlands) was opened for rapid scale-up.
CuRe polyester reduces CO2-impact with 75 % compared to fossil based polyester
Low energy recycling solution for colored polyester
Polyester is one of the most commonly used plastics. It is used for products like bottles, carpets and clothes, and brings endless benefits. But is has a huge downside. Currently 91% of all polyester products are not being recycled because they are colored or contaminated or contain additives. The result: 64 billion kilo of waste all over the world, every year.
Together with Cumapol, DSM-Niaga, DuFor and Morssinkhof, in close collaboration with NHL Stenden University, a smarter and scalable solution was discovered. Together, the CuRe consortium offers high-level expertise in the recycled polyester manufacturing, waste preparation and material science sectors.
The current pilot plant has a capacity of 20 kg/hr in a continuous process. As soon as the CuRe Technology is validated and tested this know-how will be converted to an existing 25 kta polymerization line in Emmen to use this revolutionary technology.
Current LCA screening identifies a 75 % saving in GWP in comparison with polyester made out of fossil resources, or a saving of 1.6 kg CO2 per kg polyester. Globally there is 70 billion kilo of polyester produced every year of which only 9 % is now recycled, so the potential impact is massive.
In July 2020 a close collaboration with Coca Cola Europea Partners was announced, and funding was received from the European Union and the Dutch Government. The aim is to reach commercial scale in early 2023. CuRe is looking for global partners committed to creating a fully polyester loop by contributing know-how and funding.
