DePoly Unveils Light-Activated Chemical Depolymerization Plant in Switzerland, Converting PET Waste to Virgin-Quality Monomers in Under 60 Minutes

July 12, 2026

Plastics Today USA

Overview

Swiss startup DePoly has launched a showcase plant in Monthey, Switzerland, demonstrating a light-activated chemical depolymerization process that converts post-consumer PET plastic waste into virgin-quality raw materials in under 60 minutes. This innovative method operates without high temperatures or pressures, effectively processing mixed, colored, and contaminated PET. The technology is poised to significantly expand the scope of recyclable plastics, reduce reliance on fossil feedstocks, and accelerate the circular economy for high-value applications like food-grade packaging and textiles.

In Depth

Key Findings

Swiss startup DePoly has inaugurated its first PET depolymerization showcase plant in Monthey, Switzerland, demonstrating a groundbreaking light-activated chemical process that converts post-consumer and post-industrial PET waste into virgin-quality raw materials in under 60 minutes. This facility is a critical step towards commercializing advanced plastic recycling, capable of processing mixed, colored, and contaminated PET to yield purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and monoethylene glycol (MEG) without the need for high temperatures or pressures.

Technical Details

DePoly’s proprietary technology utilizes a novel light-activated chemical depolymerization process. Unlike traditional thermal or high-pressure methods, this approach efficiently breaks down PET polymer chains into their constituent monomers at milder conditions, significantly reducing energy consumption and operational complexity. The resulting PTA and MEG are of a purity equivalent to virgin materials, making them suitable for demanding applications, including food-grade packaging, high-performance textiles, automotive components, and electronics. The ability to handle diverse and challenging waste streams, such as opaque and multilayered PET, addresses a major limitation of conventional mechanical recycling.

Background & Context

The global plastic waste crisis and the imperative for sustainable resource management have intensified the search for effective recycling solutions. While mechanical recycling has its merits, it often struggles with heavily contaminated or mixed plastic streams, leading to downcycling or landfilling. Chemical recycling technologies, particularly depolymerization, offer a pathway to truly circular plastic economies by returning polymers to their fundamental building blocks. This approach not only diverts waste from landfills and incinerators but also reduces the industry’s reliance on virgin fossil-based feedstocks, thereby contributing to lower carbon emissions and increased resource efficiency.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

The successful launch of DePoly’s demonstration plant marks a pivotal moment for the advanced plastic recycling sector. By proving the commercial viability and scalability of its low-energy, high-efficiency process, DePoly is positioned to become a key player in the transition to a circular plastics economy. The production of virgin-quality monomers from challenging waste streams opens new possibilities for brands to meet sustainability targets and regulatory requirements for recycled content. This innovation is expected to significantly impact industries that rely heavily on PET, fostering a more sustainable and resource-independent future for polymer production globally.

Source: https://www.plasticstoday.com/materials/swiss-startup-depoly-l%C3%A4nces-pet-depolymerization-plant

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