NextChem obtains feasibility study from Röhm for PMMA chemical recycling

NextChem (Maire Group), through its subsidiary MyRemono, has been awarded by Röhm, one of the world's leading producers in the field of methacrylate chemistry, with production and research sites in Europe, North America and China, a feasibility study for a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) waste chemical recycling plant at Röhm's production site in Worms, Germany. The initiative is in line with Röhm's objective to completely eliminate incineration and landfill disposal of PMMA-related production waste through recycling by 2030, reaffirming its commitment to promoting circularity and sustainable materials in the PMMA industry.

The project leverages NextChem's NXRe technology, a depolymerisation process based on the use of molten metal for continuous chemical recycling of PMMA. The modular NXRe technology enables continuous depolymerisation of PMMA waste – from both pre- and post-consumer streams – into ultra-pure recycled methylmethacrylate (rMMA), with quality equal to virgin material. The plant is designed for a capacity of 5,000 tonnes per year, fully integrated into Röhm's existing PMMA production site.

Compared to current virgin MMA production processes, recycled MMA produced with NXRe technology is expected to reduce the carbon footprint by over 90%. This significant reduction is possible thanks to a circular approach: PMMA waste – classified as secondary raw material (SRM) – is used as raw material, replacing fossil resources for virgin MMA production and eliminating emissions related to their extraction and processing.

This agreement represents a further milestone that lays the foundations for licensing of NXRe PMMA technology, for which the first industrial-scale plant in Italy is under construction and will be completed in 2026.

"Our NXRe PMMA technology is a cornerstone of our strategy for sustainable materials. This feasibility study with Röhm, a leader in PMMA production, represents a fundamental step towards the industrialisation of advanced recycling solutions and demonstrates the value of solid partnerships in driving the energy transition. Together, we strengthen the European PMMA circularity network and promote innovation for a low-carbon future," commented Fabio Fritelli, managing director of NextChem.