Royal DSM and Clariter, an international clean-tech company, have formed a strategic partnership to pursue a next-generation chemical recycling solution for products based on DSM’s Dyneema ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibre.

As a first step, sample products – including ropes, nets, and ballistic materials made with Dyneema – were successfully converted at Clariter’s pilot plant in Poland, demonstrating the recyclability potential of Dyneema.

In line with its ambitious sustainability targets, and following the successful launch of bio-based Dyneema (mass balance), DSM Protective Materials is actively pursuing reuse and recycling solutions for end-of-life Dyneema-based products.

To drive technical recycling solutions, DSM and Clariter partnered to test the feasibility of using Dyneema as a feedstock in Clariter’s chemical recycling process. The positive results confirm the technical viability of transforming Dyneema-based end-products into high-value, industrial grade, product families – oils, waxes, and solvents – via Clariter’s patented 3-step chemical recycling process. These can be further used as ingredients to manufacture new end- and consumer products.

Building on the success of the lab-scale trial, Clariter has now scheduled commercial-scale trials at its facility in South Africa for 2021, with the aim to use Dyneema-derived feedstock in its full-scale European plants that will be built in the coming years. In addition, DSM will continue to actively explore the possibilities of reducing the environmental impact of Dyneema across all product life stages.

“Looking at the logistics challenge of collecting many tons of used marine ropes, nets, and ballistic materials is daunting,” said Petra Koselka, Clariter chief operations officer. “However, when an economical route presents itself, suddenly the next horizon seems within reach. We are pleased to work with DSM to perform R&D on what we have dubbed ‘exciting exotics’, and plan to use it as part of our raw materials in the full-scale plants we will build in Europe.”

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