Braskem: Divests mechanical recycling jv with Terra Circular; advances olefin separation technology for commercialisation with Ardent
Stating the backdrop of a “challenging” environment, Brazilian petchem firm Braskem says that it will divest from the mechanical recycling joint venture, Upsyde, with Dutch firm Terra Circular, which focused on producing road plates and pallets from post-consumer plastic.
Braskem entered into the joint venture with Terra Circular, the parent company of Dutch recycler ER Plastics, in 2022.
The company said, “Considering a challenging environment for the petrochemical industry and a prolonged downcycle-exacerbated by high energy costs and reduced economic activity in Europe, Braskem is redirecting all resources toward its core business: the production of chemicals and plastics.”
The company also added that it remained committed to its sustainability agenda, as demonstrated by its recent investment in expanding biopolymer capacity in Brazil and the development of a new biopolymer plant project in Thailand.
“We also continue to maintain several active partnerships in both mechanical and chemical recycling, where we serve as off-takers for specialised companies,” it said.
Meanwhile in other news, Braskem and membrane technology developer Ardent Process Technologies have announced the successful completion of their joint development program for an olefin-paraffin separation technology, which they say marks a significant advancement in polyolefin production efficiency.
The collaboration, which began in November 2020, centred on the development and testing of Ardent's Optiperm membrane technology at a dedicated demonstration unit within Braskem's facilities. The rigorous development program has satisfactorily met key performance metrics, including membrane efficiency, durability, and operational stability.
"The successful pilot program demonstrates the tremendous potential of this technology to revolutionize olefin paraffin separation processes," said Bill Charlton, the COO of Ardent and leader of this project. "We are excited to move forward with Braskem towards full commercial implementation."
Following these promising results, Braskem has confirmed its intention to implement this groundbreaking technology across commercial facilities. Engineering and design work have already commenced for the first commercial installation.
"This technology represents a significant step forward in our commitment to innovative and sustainable solutions," said Gus Hutras, Global Process Technology Director at Braskem. "The successful pilot results align with our vision of transforming the chemicals and plastics industry through innovation while advancing our goals toward carbon neutrality. We're excited to move this breakthrough technology into commercial implementation."
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