Covestro and Fraunhofer UMSICHT sign contract for groundbreaking smart pyrolysis recycling pilot plant

Oberhausen, Germany — Covestro and the Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology UMSICHT have launched a joint research project aimed at improving chemical recycling of plastic waste through advanced pyrolysis technology.

The project, called “Smart Pyrolysis,” seeks to develop a digitalized process that can more precisely control the thermal decomposition of mixed plastic waste. Researchers aim to improve the quality and yield of pyrolysis oil, which can be used as a raw material in chemical production.

Pyrolysis breaks down plastic waste at high temperatures in the absence of oxygen, converting it into oils, gases and other chemical feedstocks. However, variations in waste composition can make it difficult to maintain consistent product quality.

The partners plan to address that challenge by combining sensor technology, data analysis and process modeling to monitor and control the pyrolysis process in real time. The goal is to make the technology more efficient and adaptable to different plastic waste streams.

Fraunhofer UMSICHT will focus on developing process monitoring and digital control strategies, while Covestro will contribute expertise in polymer chemistry and recycling applications.

The project is intended to support the development of scalable recycling technologies that can return plastic waste to the production cycle as raw material. Researchers say improving pyrolysis processes could play a key role in advancing a circular economy for plastics.

Both organizations said the collaboration is part of broader efforts to expand chemical recycling and reduce the amount of plastic waste sent to landfills or incineration.