Advanced Recycling Technology
Enhancing resource value through advanced recycling technology to contribute to a circular society
We are advancing the development of recycling outlets and technologies for materials that have not been usable until now, as well as research into adding higher value to resources.
We also deploy the equipment and business processes we develop to other companies, providing operational support, and expand our independently refined systems and processes nationwide to help solve environmental challenges.
Solar Panel Recycling
Patented water jet method
Large volumes of solar panels are expected to be discarded from the mid-2030s. Although the glass that makes up about 60% of a panel is an important recyclable resource, existing equipment left organic matter on the cover glass after separating the panel, leaving it with no further use. After trying various methods to remove this organic matter, we arrived at the "water jet method," which efficiently removes organic matter by spraying water at ultra-high pressure. The cover glass, once the organic matter is removed, can be horizontally recycled into sheet glass with the cooperation of glass manufacturer AGC Inc.
Mobile removal device for aluminum frames and junction boxes
Solar panels that are not yet disposed of or recycled have a problem in that the volume of the aluminum frame and junction box remains when they are left attached, and the number of panels that can be transported at once is limited due to logistics. To solve this problem, we developed a "removal device with a 4-ton hook-roll truck," which allows the frame and junction box to be removed on site. Because it is equipped with a generator, it can operate anywhere without selecting a location, efficiently moving between the site and the factory, and significantly increasing the number of panels that can be loaded per vehicle. We are currently finalizing practicality, and in the future, through further improvements in work efficiency, we will contribute to the recycling of solar panels, and ultimately to resource circulation across society as a whole.
Resource circulation of used disposable diapers
Anticipating growing demand for diapers amid the accelerating decline in the birthrate and aging population, we have focused on the treatment of used disposable diapers. Following the approval of Japan’s first Ministry of the Environment subsidy for a diaper treatment project in fiscal 2022, we began trials in Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture, in June 2024. We are working to separate used disposable diapers into pulp and plastic for recycling.
Point 01
Determine the Processing Balance
That Maximizes Equipment Capacity
In the first year of the recycling demonstration project (FY52), approximately 12 tonnes of used disposable diapers were collected and processed. To achieve stable plant operation, we are conducting repeated trials to determine the optimal balance of factors such as input volume, packaging conditions, and operating hours.
Point 02
Confirmed achievement of high hygiene standards
through bacterial analysis
We conducted bacterial analysis to confirm the hygienic safety of the recycled plastic and pulp. It was proven to meet hygiene standards as high as those for rental diapers under the Ministry of the Environment guidelines, confirming that it is thoroughly disinfected.
Point 03
Toward an era where recycling
used disposable diapers is the norm
We continue to optimize plant operations and thoroughly remove impurities from the discharged plastic and pulp. Aiming for an era where recycling used disposable diapers is the norm, we will raise resource value through our technical capabilities and pioneer ways to utilize each resource.
Plastic
Pulp