Record-Breaking Growth in Chemical Recycling Patents
Innovation in chemical plastic recycling has reached unprecedented levels, according to reports from the latest “Inside Green Innovation: Progress Report” by intellectual property firm Appleyard Lees. Patent filings surged to 794 in 2023—a more than 6% annual increase and more than double the activity recorded five years prior. Analysts suggest this acceleration signals growing global commitment to addressing plastic waste through advanced recycling technologies.
Table of Contents
Regional and Corporate Leaders Emerge
For the first time in five years, South Korea reportedly outpaced all other regions with 215 patent filings—a 20% year-over-year increase. The United States and Europe followed as other key innovation hubs. From a corporate perspective, sources indicate BASF has overtaken Eastman Chemical as the top patent filer, submitting more than triple the number of applications in 2023 compared to its competitor.
Focus on Specific Plastics and Methods
The report states that Polypropylene (PP)—commonly used in food packaging—was the most targeted material with 297 patent applications, closely followed by polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Among chemical recycling methods, pyrolysis reached a new peak of 333 patents, while thermal recycling saw a slight decline. Technologies featured in recent patents include hydroprocessing methods to create aldehydes and alcohols from waste, extrusion-based polyolefin regeneration, and microwave-assisted dechlorination systems for mixed plastics.
Drivers of Sustained Innovation
Despite a moderated growth rate, analysts suggest political, societal, and corporate pressures will continue fueling chemical recycling development. Appleyard Lees partner Chris Mason emphasized that although plastic recycling rates are rising in Europe, production volumes are increasing simultaneously, creating a critical need for scalable recycling solutions. Patent attorney Amelia Foster added that progress will depend on combining multiple methods to handle diverse polymers in circulation.
New Entrants Signal Expanding Ecosystem
Sources indicate the number of organizations filing chemical recycling patents for the first time has more than tripled since 2019. This includes research institutions focused on early-stage technology, operating alongside corporations pursuing large-scale commercialization. The diversification of participants reportedly reflects broader recognition of chemical recycling’s role in achieving a circular economy for plastics.
Related Articles You May Find Interesting
- Intel Expands Linux Graphics Support with Nova Lake Xe3P Integration, Ray-Tracin
- Aker Nscale Expands AI Data Center Footprint with New 250MW Facility in Northern
- EU Alleges Meta Violated Digital Regulations Over Content Moderation Failures
- Boeing Strikers to Vote on Revised Contract Offer After 80-Day Walkout
- UBS Announces Executive Shifts as Credit Suisse Merger Nears Final Phase
References
- https://www.appleyardlees.com/inside-green-innovation-progress-report/
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plastic_recycling
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patent
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plastic
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Recycling
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plastic_pollution
This article aggregates information from publicly available sources. All trademarks and copyrights belong to their respective owners.
Note: Featured image is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent any specific product, service, or entity mentioned in this article.
