Novoloop, a California-based company, has commenced the construction of a pilot plant in India, marking a significant step towards the large-scale production of thermoplastic polyurethane using its innovative chemical recycling technology. The 24/7 demonstration facility will showcase Novoloop’s proprietary ATOD (accelerated thermal oxidative decomposition) process, referred to as lifecycling, which efficiently breaks down polyethylene – the most widely used plastic into chemical building blocks suitable for synthesizing high-value products. ATOD is distinct from traditional pyrolysis methods, as it yields monomers rather than oil and boasts significantly lower energy requirements.
In line with environmental considerations, an ISO-compliant lifecycle assessment has revealed that Novoloop’s monomers contribute to a remarkable carbon footprint reduction of up to 91% compared to the conventional adipic acid production process. The construction of the pilot facility is progressing in stages, with initial operations scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2024. Upon completion, the plant is anticipated to have an input capacity of 70 tons by the end of 2024. The products generated from the pilot plant will be accessible to customers for trial and subsequent commercial release.
As reported by sustainable Plastics, collaborating with Aether Industries, a chemical manufacturer based in India, the integrated facility aims to validate essential techno-economic factors such as product yield and recovery rates. The collaboration will effectively demonstrate the financial viability and appeal of Novoloop’s proprietary technology.
Brad Martin, Head, Sales, Novoloop commented, “Lifecycling is a form of chemical recycling, and it’s our brand of chemical upcycling – converting low-value waste into high-value materials. Lifecycling is a controlled oxidation process. It uses oxygen to break down polyethylene (PE) waste into high-value monomers, namely dicarboxylic acids”.
