Scientific Research
The main goals of subsidizing scientific research are to provide a scientific and technological knowledge base for the programs, to train a new generation of highly qualified scientists and engineers, and to develop new technologies that will shape the Dutch industry of the future. This includes room for research into innovative polymers and new recycling methods.
New polymers and additives
Target properties for new circular plastics include:
- compatibility of their functional properties with existing plastics to allow easy market introduction,
- high yields in subsequent recycling operations,
- easy removal and reintroduction of e.g. pigments/dyes and plasticisers from a selection of high quality products,
- compatibility with current down- and upstream plastic production processes.
New recycling methods
To optimise the targeted recycling routes for plastics, we need to combine different chemical recycling and upcycling technologies that are still at different TRL levels. Examples include thermal or thermocatalytic routes (e.g. (catalytic) pyrolysis), which are already at a higher TRL level, while biochemical, photochemical and electrochemical routes are still in their infancy.
Development of new technology capable of analysing in real time the different substances in a recyclate stream on the recyclers' or manufacturer's product belt to have a cost-effective and fast system that identifies the composition of the recyclate and confirms that the composition meets the required standards.
6 million euros for 10 projects
Ten research projects have been allocated in the NWO call: 'Making Plastics Circular: Technical Innovations'. Among other things, this will allow research into developing materials and additives, more effective characterization, sorting and waste technologies and recycling techniques for plastics.
On July 2, 2024, following their independent application and review process, NWO announced to award ten projects. Applications were submitted by universities, universities of applied sciences and TO2 institutions. Companies contribute a minimum of ten percent of the total project size per project as co-funding. All studies will last up to five years.
Want to know more?
Contact the experts on the CPNL team.