In the world of environmental innovation, there’s exciting news coming from Sweden that could transform how we handle plastic waste—especially from the healthcare sector. A team of researchers at Chalmers University of Technology has developed a groundbreaking method to recycle medical plastic waste into valuable resources. Here’s a closer look at how this new technique works and its potential to reshape waste management.
The Plastic Waste Challenge in Healthcare
Healthcare facilities generate a massive amount of single-use plastic waste—think gloves, blood bags, surgical instruments, and more. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated this issue, with used face masks alone estimated to weigh around 2,641 tonnes per day in 2022. Unfortunately, much of this waste ends up in landfills, contributing to environmental pollution.
The Recycling Dilemma
The problem with recycling medical waste is twofold. First, the variety of plastics used in these items makes them difficult to sort and process with current recycling technologies. Second, the contamination from medical use requires special handling to avoid spreading infections. Traditional recycling methods fall short of meeting the high purity and quality standards needed for medical-grade materials.
Introducing Thermochemical Recycling
Enter thermochemical recycling, a revolutionary technology developed by Chalmers University’s team. This method, also known as ‘steam cracking,’ heats mixed plastic waste—combined with sand—up to a scorching 800°C. The heat breaks down the plastic molecules, turning them into a gas that contains the essential building blocks for creating new plastic.
Why It Works
Martin Seemann, Associate Professor at Chalmers, likens the process to a “thermal sledgehammer” that not only pulverises plastic molecules but also destroys bacteria and other microorganisms. The result? A collection of carbon and hydrocarbon compounds that can be used to replace fossil materials in the petrochemical industry.
Real-World Success
The technology has already been tested in two projects. One project focused on common items like face masks and gloves, while the other simulated a typical hospital’s waste mix, including around ten different types of plastic and cellulose. The results were promising, demonstrating the method’s efficiency in turning waste into high-quality raw materials for new plastic products.
A Game-Changer for Recycling
Judith González-Arias, a Postdoctoral Researcher who worked on the project, highlights the method’s potential: “Thermochemical recycling tackles the issue of medical waste recycling and recovers valuable carbon atoms. It aligns perfectly with the principles of the circular economy, providing a sustainable solution for medical waste management.”
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite its promise, scaling up this technology presents challenges. Establishing effective material flows and business models requires collaboration between the healthcare and recycling sectors. Additionally, changes in laws and regulations may be needed to fully integrate thermochemical recycling into existing waste management systems.
The Road Ahead
In Sweden, while there’s significant interest in recycling, the volume of single-use healthcare plastics currently isn’t sufficient to support a large-scale thermochemical recycling plant. Collaboration between various stakeholders and possibly locating new plants in chemical clusters could optimise the process and make it commercially viable.
The Bigger Picture
Thermochemical recycling represents a crucial step forward in managing plastic waste, especially from sectors with high contamination risks. By converting waste into reusable materials, this technology offers a cleaner, more sustainable approach to handling plastic waste, aligning with global efforts to reduce environmental impact and support circular economy practices.
Martin Seemann, Associate Professor at the Division of Energy Technology, Department of Space, Earth and Environment, Chalmers University of Technology
© Chalmers University of Technology
FAQ
1. What is thermochemical recycling?
Thermochemical recycling is a process that heats mixed plastic waste with sand to high temperatures (up to 800°C). This breaks down plastic molecules into gases containing building blocks for new plastic, which can be used in the production of high-quality plastic materials.
2. How does this technology benefit the environment?
This technology helps reduce the volume of plastic waste sent to landfills and decreases greenhouse gas emissions. By converting waste into valuable resources, it supports a circular economy and minimizes the environmental impact of plastic waste.
3. What types of plastic waste can be processed using thermochemical recycling?
Thermochemical recycling can handle a variety of plastics, including those used in medical disposables such as gloves, masks, and blood bags. The technology can process mixed plastic waste that is typically difficult to recycle with conventional methods.
4. What are the main challenges of implementing this technology?
Scaling up the technology involves establishing efficient material flows and business models, and navigating regulatory requirements. Collaborative
Judith González-Arias, Postdoctoral Researcher at the Inorganic Chemistry Department, University of Seville
© Chalmers University of Technology
efforts between the healthcare and recycling sectors, as well as potential changes in laws, are necessary for widespread adoption.
5. When will this technology be available for wider use?
While the technology has shown promising results in pilot projects, widespread implementation will require further development, collaboration, and regulatory adjustments. The goal is to integrate thermochemical recycling into existing waste management systems as a viable, sustainable solution.
Watch the video below for more information on Thermochemical Recycling
