Recycling of Swedish propylene glycol
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | RECYCTEC AB - RECYCTEC AB, Jönköping |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 250 000 |
| Project duration | December 2013 - June 2014 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
To help primarily Swedish airports to take care of a large waste water fraction. Today, there seems to be very few sustainable solutions for the de-icing fluids sprayed on airplanes in winter. Recyctec pioneers a process for the purification and recycling of propylene glycol, the main component in deicing fluids for commercial aircraft.
Results and expected effects
A large number of tests and analyses have been performed in order to optimize and simplify the technology. An important simplification has been discovered and checked in pilot scale. The environmental consequences of the Recyctec process compared to what is done today, has been studied by an independent consultant. The results confirm our belief that purification and re-use of the used propylene glycol from airports is beneficial for the Swedish society, and that the Recyctec technology will allow such a recycling to be implemented.
Approach and implementation
The work has been carried out as described in the application for the grant. A greater part of the job than initially planned has been done by Recyctec´s own personnel. This is an advantage, since the acquired know-how will stay in the company. The Managing Director of Recyctec has been directly responsible for the project and this has ensured a professional contribution from everybody involved.