PhoPro – Photothermal recovery of critical materials from complex waste streams

Description

Waste streams like mixed plastic waste and automotive shredder residues, are among the most difficult to recycle. PhoPro offers a scalable alternative to incineration and conventional pyrolysis by directly converting heterogeneous polymers into hydrogen-rich syngas, olefin gases, and high-quality recovered carbon.

A Sun-Inspired Process with Industrial Potential

The technology is based on an advanced light-driven photo-thermal reactor that replicates the spectral impact of sunlight. Intense broadband radiation rapidly breaks down complex polymers into their fundamental building blocks — carbon and hydrogen — within seconds. The result:

• Hydrogen-rich syngas and olefin gases with controlled gas cleaning and neutralization of hazardous compounds
• Recovered carbon black suitable as a precursor for new polymer production
• Reduced CO₂ emissions compared to conventional thermochemical treatment routes

Engineering excellence at HEIG-VD

At the Haute École d'Ingénierie et de Gestion du Canton de Vaud, our team has successfully designed, engineered, and built the first continuous-operating photothermal reactor of its kind, now validated at TRL4.

This achievement confirms:

• Continuous process stability
• Industrially relevant operating conditions
• Scalability potential toward pilot and full-scale deployment

Our expertise spans photothermal reactor design, high-energy optical systems, process intensification, gas treatment, and materials valorization — positioning HEIG-VD as a strategic R&D partner for industry and funding institutions seeking disruptive cleantech solutions.

Impact

PhoPro supports:

• Critical raw material recovery
• Industrial decarbonization
• Hydrogen production pathways
• Advanced recycling of complex waste streams

By transforming complex residues into clean energy vectors and reusable carbon feedstocks, PhoPro turns problematic waste into strategic resources.