Innovation to Address Plastic Waste
Earthwake is a French not-for-profit organization whose small dynamic team of technologists and entrepreneurs is dedicated to the creation, production and deployment of low-tech solutions for reducing and recovering waste materials. Its Chrysalis 40 technology heats plastic to 450˚C in the absence of oxygen to convert polyethylene and polypropylene waste into diesel and other fuels.
Currently, Chrysalis 40 can convert 160 kg of plastic waste into 120 liters of diesel per day. The technology is simple, portable, affordable and self sufficient, making it accessible to communities around the world. The diesel produced does not require further processing before it can be used in generators to produce electricity, but additives can be incorporated to optimize the characteristics of the product. It can also be blended with conventional diesel for use in vehicles, reducing the demand for petroleum and enabling communities to become more energy self sufficient.
SGS Oil, Gas and Chemicals (OGC) France is a partner in Earthwake’s mission, providing pro bono analysis and consultancy services through our Port de Bouc laboratory close to Marseille. We have analyzed products created with the Chrysalis 40 demonstrator to characterize the substances and ascertain whether the fuels meet required specifications. We are now working with the team to help fine tune the technology to ensure consistency and quality.
The Chrysalis 40 technology was demonstrated to the public in Nice on September 21, 2019, a designated World Cleanup Day. During the day, plastic rubbish collected from the local streets and beaches was processed into fuel. The Mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, attended and commented, “At a time when the plague of plastic threatens our oceans, this initiative brings a real solution for our planet.”
