Evonik, Toyotsu Chemiplas and Sanyo Chemical Launch Polyurethane Recycling Initiative in Japan
Evonik, Toyotsu Chemiplas Corporation and Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd. have launched a collaboration to advance polyurethane (PU) recycling in Japan. The initiative aims to develop a practical and commercially viable solution for recovering valuable materials from polyurethane waste. It supports the transition towards a circular economy and more sustainable polyurethane production.
The partnership will focus on recycling post-consumer polyurethane foam and production scrap. The process aims to recover valuable polyols and amines for reuse in new polyurethane products. This approach could reduce polyurethane waste and lower dependence on virgin raw materials.
Each company will contribute specialised expertise. Toyotsu Chemiplas will coordinate the project and use its collection network and logistics capabilities to support polyurethane waste recovery. Sanyo Chemical will contribute its expertise in polyol development and process technologies. Evonik will provide its proprietary hydrolysis-based chemical recycling technology and technical support.
The partners will assess the technical and commercial feasibility of the recycling process. Their long-term goal is to establish a commercially sustainable polyurethane recycling model in Japan. If successful, the initiative could help expand chemical recycling and improve resource efficiency across the polyurethane value chain.
The collaboration highlights the growing focus on polyurethane recycling, chemical recycling technology and circular materials. It also reflects the industry's efforts to improve end-of-life management for polyurethane foam. While this initiative focuses on Japan, developments in polyurethane recycling are relevant to global markets, including India, where improved collection and recycling infrastructure could help address industrial PU waste.
By combining collection, logistics and chemical recycling expertise, Evonik, Toyotsu Chemiplas and Sanyo Chemical aim to create a scalable pathway for recovering valuable resources from polyurethane waste.
Source: Evonik
