Michelin and Pyrowave to bring new recycling technology to market

The Michelin Group and Canadian plastic recycling startup Pyrowave have joined forces to accelerate the time to market for a new recycling technology.

Montreal-based Pyrowave has developed a technology that enables recyclable styrene from the recycling of plastics used in packaging, insulation panels and household appliances. Recyclable styrene is a monomer used in the manufacture of polystyrene and synthetic rubber, including for the production of tires. Pyrowave technology recycles plastic using microwaves. According to Michelin, this method produces high quality raw materials from plastic waste using electricity, which provides the highest decarbonisation potential. The development of Pyrowave will allow the French tire manufacturer to replace some of its petroleum products with secondary raw materials.

According to Michelin, the resulting material can be used in the production of polystyrene and synthetic rubber for tires, as well as a large number of consumer products.

Michelin already made a strategic investment in Pyrowave in May.

In the coming months, the companies will be engaged in introducing the new technology into serial production, certifying it and introducing it to international markets. In total, over 20 million euros will be invested in the project, and the partners will present the first prototypes by 2023.