Recycling
BASF & Essity team up with TU Wien to turn diapers into chemical feedstock
BASF and TU Wien’s innovative gasification technology converts solid waste into gas at temperatures above 600 °C
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By ICN Bureau | December 13, 2025
BASF, a global leader in chemicals and superabsorbent polymers (SAP), and Essity, a top hygiene and health company, have joined forces with the Technical University of Wien to tackle one of the biggest waste challenges: used diapers and absorbent hygiene products (AHP).
The partners have unveiled a groundbreaking gasification pilot project proving that diaper waste can be transformed into valuable raw materials for new chemical products—without complex pre-treatment. The resulting gas mixture, rich in carbon monoxide and hydrogen, can be used as feedstock for chemical production, keeping carbon in the loop.
BASF and TU Wien’s innovative gasification technology converts solid waste into gas at temperatures above 600 °C, sanitizing the material while producing high-quality feedstock that matches the standards of virgin resources.
“This breakthrough not only tackles a major waste stream but also unlocks possibilities for circularity in the chemical and hygiene sectors,” the companies said. The scalable solution could reshape municipal waste management, support ambitious sustainability goals, and offer a viable path for diaper recycling.
BASF’s extensive production network allows the use of recycled feedstocks, giving customers products that are both high-performing and sustainable.
“Our customers can rely on BASF as their trusted partner for innovative recycling solutions. We demonstrated the potential of recycling post-consumer absorbent hygiene products. BASF is committed to turning challenges into opportunities and leading the way towards a more sustainable future—together with our customers,” said Oliver Cullmann, Vice President Global Marketing & Strategy, C3 Value Chain.
