Aduro Clean Technologies Inc. (Nasdaq: ADUR) (TSX: ACT) (FSE: 9D5) and AstroTurf Corporation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to evaluate the application of Aduro's Hydrochemolytic Technology (HCT) for recycling end-of-life synthetic turf. The collaboration aims to recover polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) from synthetic turf waste and convert them into liquid hydrocarbon products for use as circular feedstock in petrochemical infrastructure.
Scope of the Collaboration
The MOU establishes a framework for evaluating technical and economic requirements for recovering PE and PP from synthetic turf. The parties will assess how HCT, combined with mechanical pre-treatment, can support a recycling pathway. The work will focus on field recovery, disassembly, de-infill, separation of non-target materials, and preparation of the polyolefin-rich fraction for HCT processing. Aduro's prior laboratory testing demonstrated selective conversion of PE and PP from post-use turf into shorter-chain hydrocarbons suitable for upgrading or use as steam-cracker feedstock.
Industry Context and Challenges
Synthetic turf is a multi-material product designed for durability, containing valuable PE and PP components in grass blades, thatch, and backing layers. However, these materials are embedded with cured polyurethane backing, adhesives, infill, sand, rubber, and contaminants. The MOU aims to address these challenges by connecting Aduro's chemical conversion approach with AstroTurf's 60 years of expertise in synthetic sports surfacing.
Quotes and Strategic Importance
“This collaboration with AstroTurf allows Aduro to work directly with a recognized name in synthetic turf to better understand the full end-of-life challenge,” said Ofer Vicus, Chief Executive Officer of Aduro. “Our prior testing showed that the polyethylene and polypropylene components of post-use turf can be converted using HCT, but the broader opportunity depends on understanding how those materials are recovered, prepared, and delivered into the process. Working with AstroTurf gives us an opportunity to connect our chemistry with real-world product knowledge, field recovery considerations, and the practical requirements needed to evaluate a more complete recycling pathway.”
Next Steps and Potential Impact
The collaboration builds on Aduro's existing work on synthetic turf materials and follows prior testing with another global turf producer. The companies intend to define how mechanical pre-treatment and HCT conversion can work together as part of a broader recycling pathway for complex turf systems. This partnership could significantly reduce synthetic turf waste sent to landfills, contributing to a circular economy for sports surfacing materials.
