UK-based chemical recycler QM Recycled Energy (QMRE) has achieved a significant milestone by selling its first Víxla plastic waste-to-oil systems to A&M Renewables, a UK-based start-up. This marks the first deployment of the modular pyrolysis reactors in the UK market and represents a major step in advancing sustainable plastic waste solutions.

QMRE is part of a four-member consortium that has partnered with Norway-based Eagle Technology to sell, distribute, and deploy Eagle's pyrolysis-based recycling technology, Víxla. Each consortium member is responsible for specific territories: QMRE covers the UK and Northern Ireland; Plast 2 Circular focuses on Spain and Portugal; CosaREC handles Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and France; and Blue Cycle manages operations in Nigeria and South Africa. This collaborative approach ensures that Eagle Technology's innovative solution reaches multiple markets across Europe and Africa.

The Víxla system is a containerized solution designed to eliminate the need to transport plastic waste to large, centralized facilities. By enabling waste processing directly at or near its source, this method significantly reduces both costs and logistical challenges. Compared to traditional large-scale recycling plants, the modular design is easier and cheaper to construct and operate, making it an ideal solution for localized waste management.

QMRE initially launched its demo facility in Kent, England, in 2020, using the German-manufactured Biofabrik P-250 WASTX pyrolysis system. However, technical challenges combined with delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic slowed the rollout of that technology. Determined to re-establish its position in the market, QMRE formed a new partnership with Eagle Technology in early 2024. This collaboration aims to introduce a network of Víxla systems across the UK and Northern Ireland to support efficient plastic waste management.

In a strategic move, QMRE has now entered a commercial joint venture with Oxfordshire-based A&M Renewables. As part of the agreement, A&M will purchase two Víxla systems from QMRE. These systems will be installed at QMRE's Kent plant, where QMRE will manage their operation on A&M's behalf.

The Víxla system offers an impressive pyrolysis oil yield of 85%, with the remaining 15% consisting of non-condensable gas (12%), which heats the process, and carbon ash (3%), which can be repurposed for construction materials. The system is designed to operate 330 days per year, ensuring high productivity and efficiency. This extended operational time maximizes the system's output and improves cost-effectiveness.

Through this joint venture, QMRE and A&M Renewables will collaborate to enhance the Víxla system's effectiveness and performance. Both companies are committed to developing sustainable solutions that can significantly reduce plastic waste while maximizing resource recovery.

"QMRE is truly delighted to be working with A&M Renewables, who are the first company to benefit from the commercial and environmental advantages brought by our rollout of a national network of Víxla plastic Waste-2-Oil systems," said Tim StClair-Perce, CEO of QMRE. "This partnership not only strengthens our commitment to advancing circular economy practices but also enables us to provide effective waste management solutions that align with the growing need for environmental responsibility."