[Courtesy of Kumho Petrochemical]
Polystyrene is a synthetic polymer used for protective packaging, containers, lids, bottles, trays, tumblers, and disposable cutlery. Recycled polystyrene, known as recycled styrene monomer (RSM), can be reconverted into general-purpose polystyrene pallets, which can be used for storage, transport, and other purposes.
Under a memorandum of understanding, Technip Energy will actively support Kumho Petrochemical's various tasks, including the transfer of licenses. The French company owns the technology rights of Agilyx, a Norwegian technology company that turns difficult-to-recycle mixed waste plastic streams into high value low carbon circular feedstocks and fuels, utilizing pyrolysis without a catalyst.
Agilyx has developed the first system capable of recycling polystyrene waste into styrene monomer, which is then used to remake new polystyrene products. The company also has commercialized a technology that converts mixed plastics to high-quality crude oil.
Instead of styrene, Kumho Petrochemical will apply RSM to its high-functional synthetic rubber called "SSBR," which gains attention as an eco-friendly tire material, while continuing research and development activities related to eco-friendly products using RSM with synthetic rubber and synthetic resin customers.
reporter
Lim Chang-won
cwlim34@ajunews.com
