Researchers from IT and technology giant IBM and Stanford University say they have developed a way to significantly improve the quality of recycled plastic.
The process breaks down the plastic so that it can be reused in the same form to produce bottles, the researchers said.
The catalysts used in the process can reduce polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic to its basic building blocks, while retaining its original properties.
The technology, which is also expected to reduce carbon emissions could be commercially available within five years of the pilot project.
The researchers believe the technology can help food and beverage packaging companies in designing environmentally friendly packaging.
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