Finnish company achieves breakthrough in circular plastics
Finnish innovator Coolbrook cracks pure plastic-waste py-oil into olefins with zero CO₂ emissions using its reactor.
Published on September 18, 2025
© Coolbrook
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Coolbrook, a Finnish technology company, has achieved a major breakthrough in circular plastics by successfully cracking 100% plastic-waste-derived pyrolysis oil (py-oil) at its large-scale pilot facility using the RotoDynamic Reactor™ (RDR) technology. This global first demonstrates that py-oil can be cracked directly in the RDR, delivering high yields of compounds like ethylene and propylene without any noticeable increase in coking. The results confirm the RDR's potential to play a central role in decarbonization and circularity for the petrochemical industry.
Coolbrook's RDR rotating technology is designed to achieve 100% CO2-free olefin production, marking a significant step towards sustainable practices in the petrochemical industry. Dr. Tuomas Ouni, Head of Process Development at Coolbrook, emphasized that cracking 100% pyrolysis oil directly, without dilution, simplifies operations and enhances the traceability of circular materials. Moreover, the RDR delivers better ethylene and propylene yields compared to conventional furnaces, all while preventing any noticeable increase in coking.
The eLECTRO project and the EU's vision
The successful tests were conducted as part of the eLECTRO project, which is funded by the EU Horizon Europe programme. This project aims to create an electrified pathway for converting mixed plastic waste into light olefins, showcasing a commitment to circular solutions with a low carbon footprint for olefin and polyolefin production.
Coolbrook's achievements extend beyond pyrolysis oil. The company has also successfully cracked naphtha at its pilot plant, achieving significantly increased yields compared to traditional furnaces. This further demonstrates the versatility of Coolbrook's technology and its potential to revolutionize various aspects of the petrochemical industry.
