Chemistry is used to extract valuable carbon molecules from waste, which can be used in the circular economy to make new products. It is also used to transform substances and make new materials. In this manner, Sulzer technologies are enabling innovative ecological solutions that minimize environmental impacts through bio-based materials, fuels and recycled carbon.  

Sulzer’s technologies offer a solution for carbon-efficient polymer recycling, which involves chemically processing mixed plastic waste that is otherwise difficult to recycle and would have to be incinerated or be sent to a landfill. Sulzer also uses carbon capture and utilization (CCU) equipment and technologies to capture and reuse the carbon dioxide emissions from the recycling process. 

Eliminating plastic waste at scale 

Chemical recycling enables the reuse of carbon from plastic waste by breaking it down into its chemical components and purifying them. A key factor impacting the adoption of recycled chemicals, fuels and polymers is the ability to produce these materials at precisely the same quality as their fossil-based counterparts - at a competitive price.  

As a leading provider of polymer solutions, Sulzer develops competitive biopolymer processes and plastic recycling technologies. We then collaborate with industry players to drive upcycling practices to extend the life of post-consumer plastic. Backed by 80 years of experience in separation technology, Sulzer’s position in plastic circularity is getting stronger.  

Early in 2023, we bolstered our polymer processing capabilities with the acquisition of a stake in Fuenix Ecogy, gaining access to a cutting-edge pyrolysis technology. The technology burns material without oxygen and converts mixed plastic waste into valuable hydrocarbons with virgin like properties. This strengthens Sulzer’s ability to create circular and zero-waste plastic value chains. 

Sulzer’s proprietary processes are enabling Indaver, a leading European sustainable waste management company based in Belgium, to recycle post-consumer plastic that is usually non- recyclable. Indaver uses Sulzer’s advanced separation technology and equipment to purify chemical feedstock from the plastic waste. The feedstock consists of styrene and oil fractions that can be reused to make packaging materials for the food industry. Indaver is planning to expand its business to key locations across Europe, which together will upcycle one million tons of used plastic ¾ enabled by Sulzer solutions. 

Expanding clean technologies 

In China, Sulzer is working with Jindan to enable the production of polylactic acid (PLA), a bio-based plastic. Based on Sulzer’s licensed PLA technology, Jindan will produce PLA in a variety of grades to support the expanded use of bioplastics in several sectors, including the textile and package manufacturing industries. 

To further promote sustainable materials and practices, Sulzer launched two new biopolymer technologies in 2023. The CAPSULTM technology supports the adoption of biodegradable and compostable polycaprolactone (PCL), a biodegradable polyester often used in the packaging, textile, agricultural and horticultural industries. CAPSULTM offers optimal process performance for competitive production of premier quality PCL grades, which will play a significant role in the reduction of plastic waste. SULACTM, our latest process solution, supports the conversion of lactic acid into lactide. SULACTM completes Sulzer’s portfolio of licensed technologies for the manufacture of polylactic acid. 

Meanwhile, Sulzer continues to invest in innovative solutions. Sulzer’s new research center in Singapore develops innovative separation solutions for circular operations, such as recycling polymers and producing bio-based fuels and polymers. These solutions have wide applications for customers in the Asia Pacific region. 

Reducing industrial emissions 

Designed to enable efficient processes in support of bio-based and renewable manufacturing, Sulzer’s leading technologies and products advance both sustainable energy and circular practices. 

At Veolia’s new biomethanol production plant in Äänekoski, Finland, for example, Sulzer is collaborating with ANDRITZ to help transform pulp mill waste into high-quality, lower-cost biomethanol. ANDRITZ is integrating Sulzer's separation technology with our purification technology to treat the pulp waste that will be used to produce 12’000 tons of biomethanol per year. High-quality biomethanol can be used by a broad range of industries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and, compared to fossil fuels, can improve combustion efficiency.¹  

Sulzer is working with partners and industry, including gas and chemical enterprises in the Alps toenable innovative carbon capture and utilization (CCU). In 2023, Sulzer’s mass transfer technologies were selected by a joint venture project in Landeck, Austria, to convert carbon emissions resulting from calcium carbide production into valuable feedstock for food and beverages, greenhouse fertilizers and fire extinguishers. By pooling their knowledge and expertise, 50’000 tons of CO² will be captured each year for use in the food and beverage industry.  

Research shows that the biggest barrier to circularity is the perceived lack of networks,² partners and associations. Sulzer’s solutions have wide applications for industry and help address several environmental challenges. We are committed to accelerating circular economies and will continue to develop partnerships to contribute to a more sustainable future. 

1 Hydrocarbons Technology: Biomethanol: A Fuel of the Future

2 Bain and Company: The circularity challenge - expect disruption