Alkyl Recycling is developing novel, open-loop chemical recycling technology for post-consumer Absorbent Hygiene Products such as waste diapers and sanitary pads. Our process applies sustainable chemistry by design and is more energy-efficient compared to conventional recycling methods.

Disposable diapers are the third-largest single consumer commodity in landfills(1). They constitute up to 4% of solid waste and take 500 years to decompose. It is estimated that landfills emitted 1,056 million metric tons on CO2 equivalent in 2018(2). Every year, more than 160 million kilos of used diapers for babies and incontinence material for adults end up in waste in the Netherlands (7) . Kenya uses about 800 million diapers per year and while global consumption stands at 450 billion diapers annually(3).

However, disposal of used diapers presents an eco-technological challenge. It is estimated that 20 billion diapers end up in landfills every year(4) in the U.S. alone. Current recycling methods include pyrolysis and incineration which use a lot of heat and emit dioxins and furans into the air plus other toxic fumes and ash(5).

Clearly, there is a lack of sustainable technologies to recycle waste diapers yet demand for disposable diapers is rising exponentially. The diaper market is predicted to exceed $71 billion in 2022. Additionally, increase in economic opportunities for mothers globally will result in increased purchases as more will afford them(6).

For these reasons, Alkyl Recycling is determined to provide a viable chemical recycling technology for diaper recycling as our first product.

Overall, we aim to create innovative solutions to fight climate change, conserve the environment and preserve natural ecosystems for prosperity of mankind and all other species.