Covestro and Fraunhofer Target Chemical Feedstocks From Scrapped Vehicles
Credit: Covestro
Covestro, Fraunhofer UMSICHT and Carbon Minds have started a research project to recover basic chemicals from the light fraction of automotive shredder residue. Covestro announced the collaboration Nov. 13.
The project, called CARBEX, will focus on benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes, collectively known as BTEX. These aromatics have uses as solvents or as feedstocks for other chemicals. The partners aim to develop a process with lower carbon dioxide emissions than conventional fossil-based production.
The German government is supporting the project, which began in September 2026 and is scheduled to run through August 2029.
Xylenes are among the chemicals used in solventborne coatings, giving formulators one reason to follow research on alternative feedstocks.
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