Technology Overview

Polyolefins such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) dominate global plastics production, yet their end-of-life management remains a critical environmental challenge. Recycling rates are extremely low, and existing biodegradable alternatives are costly, application-specific, and often generate microplastic contamination.

This technology introduces a new catalytic approach for controlled self-degradation of conventional PE and PP, without altering their manufacturing processes or performance during use.

The Innovation

A two-stage self-oxidation mechanism based on embedding radical source (the catalyst) directly into the polymer matrix:

  1. Catalyst Encapsulation in the raw material 
    • The Catalyst is encapsulated in PE or PP for manufacturing concentrated Additive Masterbatch.
    • The Additive Masterbatch formulated with PE or PP carriers for the manufacturing of finished plastic products
    • Compatible with any polymer grade, thickness, or product form
    • No impact on mechanical or physical properties
    • Fully stable during product process and storage 
    • Compatible with all plastic production process 
  2. On-Demand Initiation
    • Can be activated with or without collection
    • Activated by sunlight or hydrogen peroxideto triggers internal radical formation and accelerated oxidation
    • Biodegradable in natural soil and compost 
    • Polymer decomposes into benign products (alcohols, carboxylic acids, carbonate salts)

Key Advantages

  • Drop-in solution – no changes to existing PE/PP production lines
  • Universal applicability across films, fibers, and molded products
  • Controlled degradation timing – stable for years, rapid once initiated
  • No microplastics or toxic residues
  • Cost-effective and significantly cheaper than bio-based alternatives
  • Scalable and validated with industrial-grade film production

The PP or PE with catalyst is compatible with skin contact and food-grade regulations.

TRL6

 Performance

  • Complete degradation in 35–182 days 
  • Effective for PE and PP products up to 1 mm thickness
  • Degradation rate tunable via catalyst concentration and exposure conditions

Applications

  • Packaging films
  • Agricultural plastics
  • Single-use and short-lifecycle plastic products
  • Synthetic Fibers
  • Any PE or PP product requiring controlled end-of-life degradation

Commercial Opportunity

  • Raw material manufacturers (PE, PP compounds)
  • Additive and masterbatch suppliers
  • Packaging and plastic product manufacturers
  • Sustainability-driven plastic markets seeking regulation-ready alternatives

Agriculture application

Contact:
Yissum Research Development Company
Anna Pellivert