BASF, Essity and TU Wien demonstrate gasification technology that converts diaper waste into valuable chemical feedstocks, advancing circular economy solutions.
BASF, a global leader in the chemical industry and a major producer of superabsorbent polymers (SAP), has partnered with Essity, one of the world’s foremost hygiene and health companies, and the Technical University of Vienna (TU Wien) to advance a pioneering solution for recycling absorbent hygiene products (AHP) such as used diapers. Together, the three organizations are addressing one of the most persistent and challenging waste streams by demonstrating how these products can be reintegrated into the value chain through innovative chemical recycling.
At the core of this collaboration is a groundbreaking gasification pilot project that proves used diapers and other absorbent hygiene products can be converted directly into valuable raw materials. Unlike many conventional recycling methods, this approach does not require complex or energy-intensive pre-treatment steps. Instead, the process transforms mixed diaper waste into a synthesis gas composed primarily of carbon monoxide and hydrogen. This gas can then be used as a feedstock for chemical manufacturing, enabling the carbon contained in the waste to remain within the production loop rather than being lost through incineration or landfilling.
The success of the pilot is driven by the advanced gasification technology developed by BASF in close cooperation with TU Wien. Gasification is a thermal conversion process in which solid waste materials are subjected to temperatures exceeding 600 °C. Under these conditions, organic components are broken down into gaseous building blocks while harmful substances are neutralized. As a result, the diaper waste is fully sanitized and converted into a high-quality gas stream that meets the strict standards typically associated with virgin fossil-based feedstocks.
This technological breakthrough represents a major step forward in managing absorbent hygiene product waste, which has long been considered difficult to recycle due to its complex material composition. By demonstrating that such waste can be efficiently transformed into chemical feedstock, the project opens new pathways for circularity across both the hygiene and chemical industries. Importantly, the solution is designed to be scalable, suggesting it could be implemented more broadly within municipal waste management systems in the future.
For customers and partners, this innovation supports the achievement of ambitious sustainability targets. It provides a practical route to reducing dependence on fossil resources while lowering the environmental footprint associated with hygiene products. Moreover, it offers municipalities and waste handlers an alternative to conventional disposal routes, helping to alleviate pressure on landfills and incineration facilities.
BASF’s extensive and integrated production network plays a crucial role in enabling this circular approach. By incorporating recycled feedstocks derived from waste into its operations, BASF can offer customers products that maintain high performance while delivering clear sustainability benefits. This reinforces the company’s commitment to combining innovation, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
Commenting on the project, Oliver Cullmann, Vice President Global Marketing & Strategy C3 Value Chain at BASF, emphasized the company’s role as a reliable partner in advancing recycling solutions. He highlighted that the successful demonstration of recycling post-consumer absorbent hygiene products underscores BASF’s dedication to transforming complex challenges into new opportunities. Through collaboration with customers, academic institutions, and industry partners, BASF aims to lead the transition toward a more circular and sustainable future.
