Lummus and Sumitomo Commercialize PMMA Chemical Recycling Technology
Lummus Technology and Sumitomo Chemical announced the commercial availability of their highly-efficient Polymethyl Methacrylate Chemical Recycling (PMMA-CR) technology. This innovation, stemming from their May 2024 partnership, transforms end-of-life PMMA into high-purity methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer, matching fossil-derived quality. The scalable and economically viable solution significantly reduces waste, lowers greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 50%, and decreases reliance on fossil feedstocks, thus promoting a circular economy for PMMA applications across various industries like automotive and electronics.
Lummus Technology and Sumitomo Chemical have jointly announced the commercial availability of their advanced Polymethyl Methacrylate Chemical Recycling (PMMA-CR) technology, a significant development in promoting circularity and carbon neutrality. Building on a strategic partnership established in May 2024, this technology efficiently recycles end-of-life PMMA waste, both post-consumer and post-industrial, back into high-purity methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer. The resulting recycled MMA is chemically equivalent to fossil-derived material, enabling true closed-loop recycling for diverse PMMA applications in sectors such as automotive, electronics, and construction.The PMMA-CR process incorporates an advanced depolymerization system, developed by The Japan Steel Works, Ltd. and Sumitomo Chemical, which utilizes an efficient twin-screw extruder and heating system for optimal thermal efficiency. This system ensures continuous operation with self-cleaning capabilities, offering high equipment utilization and simple operability. Key benefits include a projected reduction of life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 50%, alongside a significant decrease in plastic waste and reliance on fossil-based feedstocks. The technology is designed to be scalable and modular, allowing for flexible capacity adjustments through duplicating trains, and is available as modular ISBL packages. With its commercial licensing now open, Lummus and Sumitomo Chemical are poised to support industries in adopting sustainable PMMA practices, enhancing resource efficiency, and minimizing environmental impact.
