NEXTCHEM Partners with Röhm for Innovative PMMA Chemical Recycling in Germany

Introduction

In a significant development aimed at enhancing sustainability in the plastics industry, NEXTCHEM, a subsidiary of MAIRE S.p.A., has been awarded a contract by Röhm to conduct a feasibility study for a chemical recycling plant focused on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). This collaboration underscores both companies' commitment to waste reduction and circular economy practices, particularly in the context of Germany's growing sustainability initiatives.

Project Details

The planned plant will be integrated into Röhm's existing production site located in Worms, South-Western Germany. It is designed to recycle 5,000 tons of PMMA scraps annually through NEXTCHEM’s proprietary NXRe™ technology. This innovative technology offers a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of methyl methacrylate production, boasting over a 90% decrease compared to traditional manufacturing methods.

NXRe™ Technology

NEXTCHEM's NXRe™ technology employs an advanced molten metal depolymerization process for the continuous recycling of PMMA. This cutting-edge method allows for the transformation of both pre- and post-consumer PMMA scraps into ultra-pure recycled methyl methacrylate (r-MMA), achieving a quality akin to virgin materials. The seamless integration of this technology into Röhm's existing infrastructure emphasizes the joint effort in enhancing the PMMA circularity network across Europe.

Commitment to Sustainability

Röhm's partnership with NEXTCHEM is part of an ambitious strategy to completely eliminate incineration and landfill disposal of PMMA production waste by 2030. This goal aligns with broader environmental goals aimed at promoting recycling and sustainable practices within the industry. Röhm's significant position in methacrylate chemistry further strengthens the initiative, increasing the momentum towards achieving a circular economy in plastics.

Vision for the Future

Fabio Fritelli, Managing Director of NEXTCHEM, highlighted the importance of strong collaborative efforts in driving the energy transition. According to him, the feasibility study is a critical step toward realizing next-generation recycling technologies and signifies the potential for industry-wide innovation. As demand for sustainable materials continues to rise, NEXTCHEM's NXRe™ technology is set to play a pivotal role in addressing both environmental and market challenges.

Conclusion

The partnership between NEXTCHEM and Röhm not only demonstrates a shared commitment to circular economy principles but also sets a precedent for future collaborative efforts across the industry. As the project moves forward, it will pave the way for sustainable solutions within the PMMA sector, ultimately contributing to a low-carbon future. MAIRE remains at the forefront of advancing technology and engineering solutions that facilitate the energy transition globally, with this initiative representing a significant stride toward environmental responsibility in manufacturing.

Next steps include the completion of the feasibility study, which will inform the potential scale-up and operational aspects of the proposed recycling plant, marking another milestone in NEXTCHEM's journey towards making impactful contributions to sustainability in the chemical sector.