Technical Description
The invention details A feedstock-agnostic hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) process to convert synthetic polymers and plastic waste into crude oils, petrochemicals, and gases by using near-critical and supercritical water as a non-polar solvent to break molecular bonds without raw material pretreatment, while managing solid loading, catalysts, and aqueous recirculation to maximize yields and minimize water use.
Problems Addressed
- Ecotoxicity of Traditional Disposal
- Sub-optimal Economic Performance
- Scale-up Constraints of Prior HTL Tech
- Costly Environmental Mismanagement
- Inefficient Existing Recycling Infrastructure
Tech Features
- Feedstock-Agnostic Hydrothermal Liquefaction (HTL)
- High Solid Plastic Loading (10 wt%–60 wt%)
- Continuous Aqueous Phase Recirculation
- Targeted Phenol Extraction via KOH Catalysis
- Targeted Alkyl Benzene Extraction via H₂SO₄ Catalysis
Target Audience
- Chemical Recycling Plant Operators
- E-Waste and Packaging Processors
- Petrochemical and Refinery Engineers
Tech ID: P19-2138 TRL 3 Patent Status: Granted Available For Exclusive and Non-exclusive License
