Braskem Advances Olefin-Paraffin Separation Technology, Exits Mechanical Recycling Venture

June 11, 2025

Engineering work is underway for the first commercial deployment of the membrane-based separation process following a successful pilot.

Amanda Joshi

Braskem announced June 9 that it has completed a joint development program with Ardent Process Technologies to advance membrane-based olefin-paraffin separation. The company also recently announced it is redirecting resources away from mechanical recycling to focus on core chemical and plastics production.

According to Braskem, the collaboration with Ardent began in November 2020 and focused on testing a membrane-based separation process at a demonstration unit within its facilities. The membrane technology, developed by Ardent, met key performance indicators for efficiency, durability and operational stability.

In a press statement, Ardent COO Bill Charlton said the results demonstrate the potential of the technology to improve olefin-paraffin separation processes. Braskem has started engineering and design work for the first commercial deployment of the separation process.

Meanwhile, Braskem on June 3 announced it is divesting from its mechanical recycling joint venture, Upsyde, to refocus on chemical and plastics production amid a prolonged downturn in the petrochemical sector. According to the company, high energy costs and reduced economic activity in Europe have contributed to this shift.

Braskem said it remains committed to sustainability, citing its ongoing biopolymer projects in Brazil and Thailand and partnerships in mechanical and chemical recycling where it continues to act as an off-taker.

About the Author

Amanda Joshi | Managing Editor

Amanda Joshi has more than 18 years of experience in business-to-business publishing for both print and digital content. Before joining Chemical Processing, she worked with Manufacturing.net and Electrical Contracting Products. She’s a versatile, award-winning editor with experience in writing and editing technical content, executing marketing strategy, developing new products, attending industry events and developing customer relationships.

Amanda graduated from Northern Illinois University in 2001 with a B.A. in English and has been an English teacher. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband and daughter, and their mini Aussiedoodle, Riley. In her rare spare time, she enjoys reading, tackling DIY projects, and horseback riding.