Researchers aim to achieve a sustainable process for complex PET waste

In this project, researchers will investigate how to combine chemical and biological methods to enable a sustainable and efficient process for the use of complex PET waste. The research project is led by Ulrika Rova, Professor of Biochemical Process Engineering.

The research project, called Upcycling of PET waste using bioelectrochemical systems, has been awarded SEK 3,320,000.
“In this project, we want to develop and combine chemical and biological methods that enable a sustainable and efficient process for using complex plastic waste, like products made up of several layers of plastic polymers, into chemicals that can be used to produce new renewable materials with high value,” says Ulrika Rova.

Both global production and use of plastics have increased significantly. The continued growth of plastic production poses a significant challenge, as plastic waste usually results in accumulation in soil and marine environments, with serious environmental and ecological consequences. The majority of plastic waste in Sweden is incinerated, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, while only a small proportion is recycled. There is a need to develop new sustainable processes for transforming plastic waste into high-value products. Given the negative environmental and health impacts of plastic waste, the project has the potential to meet several of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
“The project touches on important research questions, where increased knowledge will be a key element in moving towards a more sustainable and circular economy. This makes the project an important part of the research that is part of the University's future area of Creaternity,” says Ulrika Rova.