LYB Begins Construction of Advanced Recycling Plant in Wesseling
- The plant will start operations in 2026.
- It will use MoReTec technology to recycle mixed plastic waste.
- The project received a 40 million euro grant from the EU Innovation Fund.
- The plant aims to support Germany's circular economy goals.
Project Overview
LyondellBasell has initiated the construction of its first industrial-scale advanced recycling plant at its Wesseling, Germany site. The plant is set to begin operations in 2026 and aims to support Germany's circular economy and low carbon goals.
Technology and Capabilities
The facility will utilize LYB's proprietary MoReTec technology to convert pre-treated, mixed waste plastic into raw materials for new plastic polymers. This will be the first commercial-scale, single-train advanced recycling plant, demonstrating its scalability potential.
Funding and Support
The project has received a 40 million euro grant from the EU Innovation Fund. German Chancellor Scholz and Minister-President Wüst attended the foundation-laying ceremony, highlighting the project's significance for the region and Germany's broader environmental objectives.
Future Prospects
LYB anticipates that MoReTec technology will gradually shift the use of traditional fossil-based raw materials toward circular resources. The catalytic nature of the technology is expected to conserve energy and significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, serving as a model for future investments.