"Multilayer plastics (MLP) are one of the largest unresolved waste streams: over 40 million tonnes are generated annually, yet current technologies cannot recycle them effectively due to their complex laminated structure and the presence of inks, adhesives, contaminants and mixed polymers. As a result, MLP is mostly landfilled, incinerated or leaked into the environment, while demand for high‑quality recycled polymers—especially food‑grade—continues to outpace supply. Existing solvent‑ or chemical‑based methods are slow, expensive, toxic, and incapable of producing high‑purity or food‑contact‑compliant materials.
ReMLP addresses this gap with a patented, water‑based delamination and steam‑stripping decontamination process capable of recycling any type of rigid or flexible MLP, including post‑consumer waste, and delivering food‑grade recycled polymers. The prototype plant (TRL6) has validated more than 10 MLP structures and generated early commercial traction with both recyclers and converters.
The project’s objective is to scale ReMLP to industrial pilot level (TRL8) by installing and optimizing a 500 kg/h pilot plant, validating its performance on the three largest MLP waste fractions (polyal, aseptic bags, flexible packaging), and initiate the process of obtaining EFSA food‑contact and UNE‑EN 15343 certifications. In parallel, the project will prepare the market for adoption through communication, customer engagement and pre‑commercialization activities, paving the way for TRL9 deployment at 1,000 kg/h.
The pathway to impact is straightforward: enabling recyclers and converters to convert currently unrecyclable MLP into high‑value, certified polymers unlocks new revenue, reduces disposal costs, and provides a scalable route to circularity. By 2029 ReMLP could prevent over 100,000 tonnes of MLP from landfilling or incineration, supply more than 90,000 tonnes of high‑quality recycled materials, and significantly contribute to EU circular economy and packaging‑waste targets."
