PolyGen
Overview of innovation
The invention relates to an energy-generating system that uses polyethylene plastics (which would normally cause environmental pollution) to produce synthesis gas (syngas). Unlike conventional gasification processes that rely on oxygen, this system ensures that the gasification of polyethylene to generate syngas occurs in an aerobic environment. A novel feature of this system is its ability to recover a portion of the latent heat of water, leading to a significant improvement in energy production compared to more conventional designs. This system converts non-recycled plastics into power, transforming harmful waste material into something useful.
Type of Intellectual Property protection
Patent
Innovation Opportunity Type
Investment
Partnership
Industry
Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply
Electricty, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply
Technology Readiness Level
TRL 5 – Prototype tested in a controlled environment
Website link
https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Research-&-Innovation/Innovation,-Technology-Transfer-and-Commercialisation