Covestro india partners with csir-ncl to convert pu waste into chemical feedstocks

This collaborative project will explore innovative methods for converting polyurethane waste into valuable chemical feedstocks. The aim of this research is to develop commercially viable technologies that can significantly enhance the recyclability of polyurethane materials while reducing environmental impact.

Currently, polyurethane recycling is mainly limited to mechanical methods and some emerging chemical processes. These existing methods face significant limitations, including material performance degradation, high energy requirements, the potential for harmful by-products, and limited applicability across different types of polyurethane. Developing efficient polyurethane chemical recycling technologies is a key industry need that this project aims to address.

In commenting on the launch of the project, Avinash Bagdi, Head of Sales for India and Custom Polyurethane Solutions, said:This partnership strengthens our commitment to seeking innovative solutions for polyurethane waste and directly supports Covestro's vision of achieving a comprehensive circular economy. By developing effective polyurethane upgrade recycling methods, we are taking concrete steps to create a more sustainable future, in line with our corporate vision to drive the transition to a circular economy.

This project addresses the critical global challenge of polyurethane waste management. Unlike traditional plastics, polyurethane faces unique recycling challenges due to its complex chemical structure and cross-linking properties. Currently, the polyurethane economy largely follows a linear model, where these specialized materials, widely used in furniture, automotive components, insulation, and countless other applications, are often discarded after use, ultimately accumulating in landfills.

NCL has world-class expertise in chemical science and sustainable technology development, making them an ideal partner for this project. As one of India's research institutions with over seventy years of scientific achievements, NCL has unparalleled capabilities in developing new chemical processes.

Covestro (India) and NCL's strategic partnership leverages the laboratory's cutting-edge infrastructure, outstanding research team, and strong record in developing environmentally sustainable technologies. This memorandum of understanding is based on a recent agreement between the two companies, reinforcing Covestro and NCL's shared commitment to addressing environmental challenges through scientific innovation. This collaboration further combines Covestro's industry leadership with NCL's scientific expertise, establishing a strategic partnership to tackle the challenges of plastic recycling.

Dr. Ashish Lele, the director of NCL, further commented on the demand for such solutions: “CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory is pleased to collaborate with Covestro (India) to jointly develop new chemical upcycling methods for polyurethane waste. The traditional and electrochemical strategies we are formulating address the key limitations of current recycling technologies and perfectly align with our shared vision for a circular economy. This collaboration represents an important step for India and the world towards sustainable plastic management, with the potential to transform polyurethane waste into valuable chemical resources.