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Asahi Kasei and have launched a joint demonstration project with the objective of commercializing a chemical recycling process for polyamide 66 using microwave technology. The process utilizes microwaves to depolymerize PA66 and directly obtain hexamethylenediamine and adipic acid, the six-carbon monomers it is named for.  The monomers can then be used to manufacture new PA66. In the demonstration, scraps from manufacturing and post-use waste material of PA66 for airbags and automobile parts are depolymerized.

Since 2021, laboratory scale studies have confirmed the high-yield depolymerization of PA66 using microwaves, as well as subsequent processes for separation and purification of the monomer products. Microwave’s proprietary PlaWave technology operates at lower temperatures and has lower energy requirements than conventional processes for depolymerization of PA66.

Asahi Kasei currently produces Leona 66, an engineered PA66, from fossil fuel-derived hexamethylenediamine and adipic acid, with automotive and electronics applications.

Benchtop demonstration trials are planned for 2024, with a decision on commercialization expected by 2025. Microwave Chemical is also working to expand the types of materials its PlaWave technology can be used to chemically recycle, including PMMA, PU foam, automotive shredder residue, and others.