Enzymatic Recycling
Technology
Also known as: Biological Recycling, Enzyme-Based Recycling
Quick Overview
Engineered enzymes selectively depolymerize target plastics at low temperature and pressure — a bio-based recycling route.
Overview
Biological depolymerization using engineered enzymes (e.g., PETase, MHETase) to break down plastics into monomers under mild conditions. Emerging technology with potential for low-energy, selective recycling of specific polymers.
Key Concepts
Engineered enzymes selectively depolymerize target plastics at low temperature and pressure — a bio-based recycling route.
Industry Landscape
Major Companies & Projects
Carbios, Samsara Eco, Protein Evolution, AIMPLAS, University of Portsmouth, CNRS are actively developing enzymatic recycling technologies and applications.
Applications
PET, PLA, Polyurethanes, Polyamides
Standards & Certifications
Related Terms
depolymerization, chemical-recycling, fermentation, synthetic-biology
Further Reading
- Industry reports from Nova-Institute, European Bioplastics, ISCC
- Peer-reviewed literature in Green Chemistry, ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering
- Regulatory updates from EU Commission, USDA BioPreferred, FDA
Major Producers
- Carbios
- Samsara Eco
- Protein Evolution
- AIMPLAS
- University of Portsmouth
- CNRS
Key Applications
- PET
- PLA
- Polyurethanes
- Polyamides