Recon Technology Completes Construction of Chemical Recycling Plant Ahead of Schedule
Introduction
Recon Technology Ltd. has reached an important milestone by completing the main construction of its manufacturing plant for the Shandong Recon Renewable Resources Technology Co., Ltd. This facility, part of the 40,000-ton-per-year waste plastic chemical recycling initiative, signifies a key advancement towards sustainable management of plastic waste. With construction now completed, the project is set to move into the crucial equipment installation and commissioning phase, paving the way for its operational launch by the end of 2025.
Project Overview
The recon plastic chemical recycling facility spans approximately 50 acres and includes various vital components such as six pyrolysis units and two distillation units, alongside necessary environmental protection installations. Upon its operational launch, the plant is expected to annually yield around 30,000 tons of plastic pyrolysis oil and 6,000 tons of carbon residue. With an estimated revenue generation of $30 million per year, this initiative not only highlights the potential for profit but also addresses the pressing issue of waste plastic utilization effectively.
Investment and Future Production
To date, Recon has invested over $15 million in the project. Following full completion in November 2025, it will enter a one-month trial operations phase starting in December. This preparatory period is essential for ensuring that the plant meets necessary regulatory standards before commencing full-scale production. The company has also established strategic agreements with multinational chemical corporations and leading domestic companies to explore diverse applications for its high-value pyrolysis oil products, indicating strong market interest and the potential for lucrative partnerships.
Innovative Technologies in Waste Plastic Management
The technological approach employed in the Recon Plastic Chemical Recycling Project is noteworthy. It utilizes a unique dual-process method that combines catalytic pyrolysis and catalytic reforming, featuring cutting-edge advancements such as a “horizontal screw-type three-stage continuous reactor.” This innovative approach effectively overcomes challenges associated with plastic coking prevalent in traditional recycling methods, ensuring a reliable and stable feedstock supply. Moreover, the catalytic reforming stage increases the olefin content of the resultant pyrolysis oil, significantly enhancing its market value and commercial viability.
Comments from Leadership
Yin Shenping, CEO of Recon Technology, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s milestone. He stated, "We are delighted to announce the successful completion of the main structures of the Shandong project, which marks an important milestone in its construction. This demonstrates our team’s ability to execute efficiently and underscores our commitment to advancing the industrialization of the plastic chemical recycling industry."
Shenping further noted that the primary aim for 2025 is to ensure smooth commissioning and stable production of products adhering to stringent quality standards. The vision for the Shandong Recon plant goes beyond domestic reaches, aiming to be a global benchmark for the continuous production of plastic chemical recycling outputs, thereby contributing to a circular economy.
Commitment to Sustainability
Recon is dedicated to becoming a leader in low-carbon smart factory developments. The company emphasizes operational efficiency and environmental performance, aspiring to create a replicable factory model that supports rapid scalability in the waste plastic resource utilization sector. The project’s commitment to employing advanced technologies and sustainable practices reflects a proactive approach to combatting environmental challenges associated with plastic waste. By targeting various low-value waste plastics—including municipal solid waste and industrial plastic refuse—the plant aims to tackle the pervasive issue of "white pollution" and contribute positively to environmental sustainability initiatives.
Conclusion
As the construction of the Recon Plastic Chemical Recycling Project wraps up, the future looks promising for both the company and the broader industry as it navigates the complexities of waste management. The project exemplifies the potential for transformative change in how society deals with plastic waste, positioning Recon Technology as a pivotal player in forging a sustainable future through innovative recycling solutions. The upcoming operational phase will reveal the true capabilities of this investment, marking a significant step in the advancement of the chemical recycling landscape.