Lummus and Sumitomo Launch PMMA Recycling Technology
- Lummus and Sumitomo announced PMMA-CR technology availability on February 4, 2026.
- The partnership began in May 2024 to develop circular and carbon-neutral technologies.
- PMMA-CR recycles PMMA into high-purity MMA, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50%.
- The technology was validated at Sumitomo's pilot plant in Japan.
Technology Announcement
On February 4, 2026, Lummus Technology and Sumitomo Chemical announced the commercial availability of their PMMA Chemical Recycling (PMMA-CR) technology. This development is part of their strategic partnership initiated in May 2024 to advance circular and carbon-neutral technologies in the petrochemical sector.
Recycling Process
The PMMA-CR technology efficiently recycles end-of-life PMMA into high-purity methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer. The process, developed with The Japan Steel Works, Ltd., matches the quality of fossil-derived MMA and is expected to reduce life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 50%.
Key Features
The technology features a highly efficient recycling process, converting PMMA waste into circular MMA monomer with high yield and purity. It utilizes an advanced depolymerization system with a twin-screw extruder for uniform temperature and thermal efficiency. The system supports continuous operation with a self-cleaning extruder and is scalable and modular, allowing capacity adjustments by duplicating trains.
Validation and Applications
The PMMA-CR technology was successfully validated at Sumitomo Chemical’s pilot plant in Japan. It enables true closed-loop recycling for PMMA applications in industries such as automotive, electronics, and construction. With the technology now available for licensing, Lummus and Sumitomo Chemical aim to support customers in transitioning toward circular PMMA, improving resource efficiency, and reducing environmental impact.
Source: Lummus