Swiss cleantech company DePoly will open a 500-tonne-per-year demonstration plant this summer in Monthey, Switzerland. The facility is designed to validate its chemical recycling process for PET and polyester waste. This process converts discarded plastic materials—such as packaging, bottles, and textiles—into raw ingredients for new products, without using fossil resources.

A Focus on Material Recovery

DePoly’s technology breaks down PET into two base chemicals: purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and monoethylene glycol (MEG). These monomers are identical in quality to those made from petroleum, but come from plastic waste instead.

This approach allows the recycling of mixed and coloured PET that would otherwise be difficult to process. The recovered materials can be used in new packaging, textiles, or other products that require high-performance plastics.

Tested Across Multiple Industries

The company has already worked with manufacturers in sectors such as packaging, fashion, and consumer goods. These trials have used the recycled material to produce new bottles, fibres, and cosmetic packaging. According to DePoly, these applications meet industry standards for purity and quality.

By using waste instead of fossil inputs, this method supports circular design strategies and may reduce environmental impact.

Scaling Up the Process

The Monthey facility serves as a step toward commercial production. DePoly plans to build a larger plant in 2027. This commercial site will process higher volumes and expand the use of recycled PET in industrial applications.

To support this growth, the company has raised more than $30 million in funding. Recent investors include MassMutual Ventures, along with BASF Venture Capital and other partners.

Relevance for Design

Designers working in packaging, product development, interiors, and fashion often rely on PET-based materials. DePoly’s technology offers a potential alternative to virgin plastic, with quality suitable for demanding applications. It also contributes to reducing waste and increasing circularity in material use.

Source: DePoly
Photo: Mart Production