Repsol, Rampf Eco Solutions Partner to Boost Polyurethane Recycling

Spain’s energy giant Repsol has reached an agreement with Rampf Eco Solutions that will allow it to develop and build recycled, flexible polyol plants throughout Europe applying Repsol’s chemical recycling technology. The agreement specifically covers analysis for the construction of new plants in Europe and the development of new polyols produced from different sources and qualities of post-consumer polyurethane waste, said Repsol, which has made a corporate commitment to achieve zero emission levels by 2050.

This agreement makes it possible to bind the expertise of both companies in recycling know-how and polyol production capabilities and engineering, said the joint news release. Leveraging these synergies, the two companies will efficiently boost flexible foam recycling in terms of development and new site construction. 

This agreement follows Repsol’s announcement last March regarding the construction of the first polyurethane recycling plant in Spain to produce circular polyols from end-of-life mattresses. It is slated to be operational by the end of 2022. The plant will be capable of processing more than 2,000 metric tons of post-consumer waste per year, according to Repsol. 

“We are very proud to be working together with such a renowned team of experts,” said Marco Werth, Director of Sales and Marketing at Rampf Eco Solutions. “Repsol’s commitment to reaching net zero emissions by 2050 is truly inspiring. Both companies share a strong dedication and enthusiasm for the circular economy, for which this cooperation is emblematic.”

Based in Pirmasens, Germany, Rampf Eco Solutions is specialized in the production of polyols from polyurethane-based waste. It also has developed chemical processes by which PET/PSA; other polyesters such as PLA, PC, and PHB; and renewable or bio-based raw materials such as vegetable oils can be used as sources of raw materials for the manufacture of recycled polyols. 

Repsol said that this agreement proves its ambition to transform its industrial complexes and turn them into multi-energy hubs capable of generating products with a low, zero, or even negative carbon footprint. It also demonstrates Repsol’s commitment to a circular economy by offering sustainable solutions both for polyurethane converters and consumers.