PET recycling: matterr sets new standards
matterr Operations is building a unique European plant for the chemical breakdown of polyester-containing textile and packaging waste at the Knapsack Chemical Park near Hürth. The process developed by matterr makes it possible to separate mixed polyester waste and break down the polyester it contains into its original components. This means that high-quality recycled raw materials of primary material quality can be obtained and reused in plastics production. The pilot phase in Braunschweig has already proven the technical feasibility, and now the pre-industrial scale-up in North Rhine-Westphalia will follow.
Bridge between waste management and industry
The idea arose from the conviction that there is untapped potential in the growing mountains of waste. matterr's recycling technology directly addresses these streams and converts mixed polyester waste into resources that are reprocessed into polyester in downstream processes. This creates a closed cycle from waste to reusable raw material, which not least reduces dependence on fossil resources. At the same time, the project strengthens the regional industry and not only creates new jobs, but also new opportunities for cooperation along the entire value chain. North Rhine-Westphalia combines ideal conditions from the chemical, waste management and textile industries, recycling and logistics and will become a pioneer for closed material cycles in Europe.
Contribution to the European transformation
As part of a European strategy for decarbonization and resource efficiency, matterr technology strengthens strategic competitiveness. Just recently, a Danish textile group invested in matterr and is thus driving forward the circular economy in the textile industry. The aim of matterr is to establish the technology throughout Europe and to license it globally in the long term. Construction of the plant in Hürth-Knapsack is planned for 2026/27. In this way, matterr is making an important contribution to the implementation of the European Green Deal and the sustainable transformation of the industry.
