B2-01 Development of high-value-added technologies contributing to recycling and upcycling
Collaborating Organization
TORAY Industries, Inc
Research and Development Overview
Aiming to build an X to Car model for supplying high-quality recycled materials for automobiles, we aim to create high-toughness technologies through upcycling techniques that achieve toughness equivalent to or greater than virgin materials (PP, etc.) using polyrotaxane) and establish catalyst technologies that contribute to monomer production using biomass-derived raw materials.
Key Activities
Research on upcycling technology using recycled plastics
As PA66 recycled raw materials (PIR), we selected those for automotive interiors and lithium-ion batteries. In a comparative study using these materials in PA66/PP alloy materials (GF reinforced grade) for low water absorption, calcium chloride resistance, and LLC resistance, we confirmed that they could be used without problems.
As PA6 fishing net-derived raw materials (PCR), we used various PA6 recycled raw materials and evaluated compound prototypes with polymer recycling ratios (50-100%). The results showed that depending on the raw material, some recycled raw materials had no problems with mechanical properties even at a 100% polymer recycling ratio, while others showed a decrease in strength even at a 50% polymer recycling ratio, and also required further improvement in terms of molding fluidity.
Catalytic technology (bioacrylonitrile) that contributes to monomer production using biomass raw materials
To promote the bio-processing of acrylonitrile (AN), a raw material for polymers used in many everyday materials such as acrylic fibers and ABS resin, we investigated the most challenging step: the conversion from lactate ester to acrylic ester. Through various studies, ethyl lactate was determined to be suitable as the lactate ester, and we are currently working to improve the yield of ethyl acrylate synthesis from ethyl lactate through catalyst and condition optimization.
This research concluded in fiscal year 2025, and our efforts will be focused on upcycling technology research using recycled plastics.