The Canadian firm Pyrowave has announced a joint development agreement with the Michelin Group. Through the Pyrowave developed technology, it is possible to generate recycled styrene from plastics found in packaging, insulation panels and/or household appliances.

This recycled styrene is an important monomer: it is used in the production of polystyrene and synthetic rubber for tires and a large number of consumer products.

The scientific breakthrough behind Pyrowave technology helps recycle plastics using microwaves. Unlike current thermal processes, this unique technology enables the recycling of plastic waste into high-quality raw materials using electricity – the energy form currently providing very high decarbonation potential. It also provides higher yields, while being more accurate than conventional technologies, to replace virgin raw materials from oil and gas.

Michelin Group and Pyrowave join forces to accelerate time-to-market for an innovative plastic waste recycling technology.

The joint development agreement between Pyrowave and Michelin will result in the implementation of new value chains in the circular plastics economy. Redesigning new packaging or manufacturing new products from recycled plastics in the automotive, electronics or tire sectors will become possible.

The two companies will work together in the coming months to fast track the industrialization of Pyrowave technology with a view to a certification and commercial roll-out in international markets. The joint development agreement, which will ultimately account for an investment of more than €20 million, will combine Pyrowave's expertise with Michelin's industrial know-how.

In order to fast track the validation of the technology and the certification of its products, Michelin's technical teams will work with their Pyrowave's counterparts to develop an industrial demonstrator, funded and operated by Michelin, by 2023. The technology will meet the highest standards in place within the Group in terms of safety, operation and performance.

After a year of evaluation, Michelin was able to see the process in operation and test samples of recycled styrene in the composition of its tires. This polymer regeneration process is fully in line with Michelin Group's strategic vision and its product sustainability objectives.

"This partnership is an ultimate illustration of the Group's sustainable strategy. The purpose is to manufacture tires made of increasingly sustainable materials and to make these technologies available to innovative recycling channels. We believe in the potential of Pyrowave technology and share their vision for a more sustainable future through innovation," stated Sonia Artinian-Fredou, Executive Vice President, Services & Solutions, High Tech Materials at the Michelin Group.

"Our partnership marks the beginning of the industrialization phase, drawing on the expertise and technical soundness of the Michelin Group. This strategic partnership reflects the attractiveness and potential of chemical process electrification, both environmentally and commercially, for world-scale players in the chain value," said Pyrowave Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer Jocelyn Doucet.