ENEOS and Mitsubishi Chemical Complete Plastic-to-Oil Facility in Japan

ENEOS Corporation and Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation have announced the completion of a plastic-to-oil chemical recycling facility in Kamisugi, Ibaraki Prefecture, which has been under construction since July 2021. The completion ceremony was held on July 2, 2025, marking a major milestone in the advancement of plastic recycling technologies.

The facility utilizes the groundbreaking Hydro-PRT™ technology, licensed by Mura Technology, to chemically decompose plastic waste into recycled oil using supercritical water. By operating under high temperature and pressure, this process prevents side reactions during decomposition and ensures the production of high-purity recycled oil.

This recycled oil can be seamlessly integrated into ENEOS’ and Mitsubishi Chemical’s refining and ethylene cracking facilities, where it is further processed into petroleum products, chemicals, and new plastics. The process establishes a closed-loop recycling system, turning waste plastics back into raw materials and enabling sustainable reuse.

The facility also aims to secure ISCC PLUS certification, which traces the origin and usage of recycled resources. Achieving this certification will allow its recycled oil and downstream products to enter global markets with a sustainability label, increasing their competitiveness and credibility as green products.

This innovative approach to chemical recycling demonstrates a significant step toward addressing the global plastic waste crisis and fostering a circular economy for plastics.