The initiative will focus on research and development of methods to transform end-of-life polyurethane materials into valuable chemical feedstocks

Covestro (India) Private has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL) to jointly develop chemical upcycling solutions for polyurethane waste. The collaboration aims to address key technical limitations in current recycling technologies and advance circular economy practices in plastics.

The initiative, part of Covestro India’s Corporate Social Responsibility programme, will focus on research and development of methods to transform end-of-life polyurethane materials into valuable chemical feedstocks. Polyurethanes are widely used in applications such as insulation, furniture, and automotive components, but are difficult to recycle due to their complex chemical structure and cross-linked nature.

Current recycling methods are limited, often relying on mechanical processes or early-stage chemical technologies that face issues such as energy intensity, limited material applicability, and potential byproduct concerns. The joint project seeks to explore both conventional and electrochemical strategies to overcome these challenges.

“This partnership strengthens our commitment to finding innovative solutions for polyurethane waste and supports our broader circularity goals,” said Avinash Bagdi, Director & Head of Sales & MD Solutions India & Projects – Tailored Urethanes, Covestro India.

Ashish Lele, Director of CSIR-NCL, added that the collaboration aligns with the laboratory’s focus on sustainable materials management and innovation in plastic waste solutions. “The strategies we are developing aim to tackle long-standing limitations in polyurethane recycling and have the potential to create scalable chemical pathways for waste valorisation,” he said.

The project leverages NCL’s expertise in chemical sciences and sustainable technology development along with Covestro’s industrial knowledge in advanced polymers. Both organisations have emphasised the importance of science-led innovation to drive more sustainable material lifecycles in India and globally.