DSM and Clariter have announced a strategic partnership to pursue a next-generation chemical recycling solution for products based on DSM’s Dyneema, an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibre.
The Dyneema brand from DSM is an ultra-strong, ultra-light material that features in cycling shoes, apparel, accessories and a small number of bike frames, such as the Anakin Carbon frames from MTB specialist FRM.
DSM notes that it 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.
Sample products made with Dyneema were used in Clariter’s tests at its pilot plant in Poland.
‘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 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 added that it will continue to actively explore the possibilities of reducing the environmental impact of Dyneema across all product life stages.
Petra Koselka, Clariter Chief Operations Officer, said “To stretch and explore boundaries of the next circular solution requires courage, foresight, and tenacity, which DSM has demonstrated with abundance.
“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.”
Roeland Polet, President DSM Protective Materials, said “Following our successful efforts to introduce bio-based Dyneema (mass balance), these results mark the next important step on the circularity journey of DSM Protective Materials.
“Recyclability is key to us, our customers, and society at large and achieving it requires cross-value chain efforts. To this end, we’re looking forward to continue building our partnership with Clariter, and to continue using our science-based capabilities to deliver on our purpose of creating brighter lives for all.”
