Environmentally harmful medical spray propellants are replaced with recycled CO2 through innovation.

Important results from the project

This study shows that it is entirely possible to replace GWP-driving gases in medical sprays and to create circular structures for "refill, reuse" of both aerosol containers and CO2 cartridges. It is possible to put CO2-propelled nasal sprays on the market within appr 4 years, and CO2-propelled inhalers within appr 7 – 9 years from the start of a demonstrator units and pilot plant project. Initial investment is within 10 MSEK Production investment 20 – 500 MSEK depending on product and scale.

Expected long term effects

Lower costs for asthma/COPD medication – higher accessibility for the majority of those affected, who are women. Circular processes for "refill, reuse" of aerosol containers and CO2 cartridges with pharmacies as natural hubs. Possible effect is that pharmaceutical companies are stripped of their exemption from using environmentally harmful propellants in medical devices, when they can be replaced with CO2. – this would globally reduce GWP by about 20,000,000 tons of CO2 equivalents annually.

Approach and implementation

At the kick-off meeting at Aurena Laboratories in Karlstad, we went through the work packages and distributed tasks. With the help of AI, we have scanned the internet for relevant facts to verify and sometimes re-evaluate assumptions. We have contacted potential suppliers, pharmacies, etc. to sort things out. Yellon are responsible for calculations and reports. The working group has reviewed and approved them. External actors have approved relevant reports, e.g. Apoteket AB in AP5.