BASF, Essity and TU Wien Prove Diaper Recycling can Create New Chemical Value

BASF, Essity and the Technical University of Vienna have demonstrated that used diapers and other absorbent hygiene products can be converted into high-quality chemical feedstock through an innovative gasification process, eliminating the need for complex pre-treatment. In a pilot project, absorbent hygiene waste was gasified at temperatures above 600 °C, producing a synthesis gas rich in carbon monoxide and hydrogen that meets the purity standards of virgin raw materials and can be reused in BASF’s chemical value chains. The process sanitizes diaper waste, keeps carbon circulating in the system and opens a scalable pathway to reduce landfill volumes from one of the most challenging municipal waste streams. This circular solution supports hygiene and chemical customers in meeting ambitious sustainability and climate goals, while leveraging BASF’s integrated production network to deliver low‑carbon, high-performance products derived from recycled feedstocks.