#Japan #Daiichi Sankyo #Tokyo #JFE Engineering #Synthetic Gas

Innovation in Recycling

Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare and JFE Engineering have made significant strides in the recycling sector by successfully generating synthetic gas from used "medicine sheets" (PTP packaging) that are typically used for tablets and capsules. This process, enabled through a proven pilot test, highlights a joint commitment towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 while addressing the challenges posed by waste disposal.

The Challenge of Recycling Medicine Sheets

Traditionally, the recycling of medicine sheets, which are often made from a composite of plastic and aluminum, has proven difficult. Most of these materials were either incinerated or disposed of as resource waste, then processed through thermal recycling methods. The mixed materials pose a complex challenge for standard recycling techniques, necessitating innovative solutions. JFE Engineering has been developing chemical recycling technologies aimed at converting such composite materials into raw chemical resources, thereby validating their applicability for used medicine sheets.

The Pilot Test Overview

The pilot test involved Daiichi Sankyo collecting used medicine sheets through their "medicine sheet recycling program." This initiative encourages general consumers to return used sheets for recycling. JFE Engineering applied their cutting-edge waste gasification technology known as the "C-PhoeniX Process®" to produce synthetic gas comprising carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and hydrogen (H2). This experiment successfully demonstrated the stable generation of synthetic gas from the used plastics collected.

Government and Municipal Collaboration

This pilot test was conducted in partnership with Japan's New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), alongside the Ministry of the Environment and Chiba City. Such collaborative efforts underline the commitment to exploring truly sustainable methods of waste management. JFE is aiming to build an entire chemical recycling system where waste plastics are converted into synthetic gas, and eventually back into usable plastic material. This trial was a vital piece in the testing phase of turning waste into gas on a small scale.

Future Steps

Daiichi Sankyo and JFE Engineering plan further verification as they work towards constructing a large-scale waste gasification plant. With the expectation of increasing collection volumes, the two companies aim to establish new recycling options to optimize both efficiency and sustainability in resource circulation.

Expert Comments

Jun'ya Iwaki, Sustainability Promotion Manager at Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare, expressed gratitude for the public's participation in the recycling program stating, "The accomplishments of this pilot test are due entirely to the support of individuals advocating for sustainable practices."

Iwaki further emphasized the significance of finding effective recycling methodologies for composite materials. He noted, "While material recycling has its limits, this trial presents a new perspective on how we can effectively utilize these resources. Our goal is to create systems that align with consumer participation and sustainable practices as we strive to build a recycling-friendly ecosystem."

Kenichi Okuyama, Head of the Development Center at JFE Engineering, also commented, highlighting that the technology developed could tackle complex multilayer materials that are often challenging for conventional recycling methods. He reaffirmed the commitment to accelerating social implementation of these advanced recycling solutions.

About the Companies

• - Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare: As a leading OTC healthcare company, Daiichi Sankyo is expanding its business beyond pharmaceuticals to encompass skincare, oral care, and food sectors, aiming for a healthier society.
• - JFE Engineering: This comprehensive engineering company focuses on the creation of large-scale plants and structures in the environment and energy sectors, committed to carbon neutrality and circular economy initiatives.

In conclusion, the partnership between Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare and JFE Engineering represents a promising step towards turning waste into valuable resources, contributing significantly to the broader sustainability goals and paving the way for a more environmentally responsible future.