Visit to Port of Moerdijk with pyrolysis oil upgrader

On March 27, CPNL Director Ton Geurts visited the Port of Moerdijk at the invitation of Green Chemistry New Economy. The visit included a morning program at Shell Moerdijk focused on the pyrolysis oil upgrade for circular naphtha, under the guidance of Paul de Hoog of Shell. CPNL program manager for thermochemical recycling Joop Groen was also present as an expert and host on behalf of GCNE. The afternoon session was characterized by in-depth discussions, open knowledge exchange and intensive networking, which formed the core of the afternoon program.

At the Moerdijk chemical plant, Shell produces basic polymers based on fossil and biomaterials, which can be used for various applications such as (bio)packaging materials or clothing. In addition, Shell has realized innovative process technology in which plastic waste is converted into valuable raw materials for chemical production. In this way, the chemical industry contributes to the circular economy and prevents plastic from ending up in the environment. Of particular note is Shell's plant in the United States, where plastic waste is processed into new basic raw materials for various products. Shell aims to use one million tons of plastic waste as raw material for its chemical plants worldwide each year by 2025. The visit to the Port of Moerdijk was not only informative but also inspiring, focusing on innovation, sustainability and collaboration within the circular economy. This visit strengthened ties between CPNL and other key stakeholders, and is expected to contribute to further progress on circularity in the chemical industry.

Read more about thermochemical recycling as part of the Circular Plastics NL program here.