This project focuses on integrating Siemens’ advanced control and data systems into Aduro’s Next Generation Pilot Plant, supporting the advancement of Hydrochemolytic Technology toward industrial readiness.
Aduro Clean Technologies (Aduro), a clean technology company using the power of chemistry to transform lower-value feedstocks, like waste plastics, heavy bitumen and renewable oils, into resources for the 21st century, has announced a strategic collaboration with Siemens Canada, a leader in industrial automation and digitalisation, to supply advanced control systems and engineering services for Aduro’s Next Generation Process Pilot Plant (Pilot Plant), scheduled for commissioning in Q3 2025.
At the core of the solution is Siemens’ SIMATIC PCS neo distributed control system—an advanced, web-based platform that will provide centralised, secure and scalable process control for the continuous operation of the Pilot Plant. Siemens will also provide instrumentation, operator interfaces and engineering services to support the plant’s commissioning and performance optimisation. Siemens is providing the automation and controls scope in alignment with Zeton, the builder of the Pilot Plant, to ensure seamless system integration and efficient commissioning. Additionally, Siemens will contribute technical input as Aduro begins preparing for the design of a demonstration plant (Demonstration Plant).
“Our vision to deliver a modular, scalable chemical recycling solution with Hydrochemolytic Technology takes another step forward today,” said Ofer Vicus, CEO of Aduro. “Partnering with Siemens—an organisation recognised globally for engineering excellence and industrial innovation—enhances the foundation we’re building. Their technologies will help ensure our Pilot Plant operates safely and reliably while generating the high-quality process data needed to optimise performance and support Demonstration Plant planning. This collaboration strengthens our path to commercialisation and supports our ability to scale with confidence.”
Hydrochemolytic Technology (HCT), developed by Aduro, uses water as a reactive medium at moderate temperatures to selectively cleave carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom bonds in polymers. Unlike pyrolysis, which relies on extreme heat and broad thermal cracking, HCT operates under catalytic conditions that enable greater controls over reaction pathways. This selective chemistry enables a higher conversion rate of polymers into lighter, more valuable hydrocarbons that are stable and do not require further hydrogenation. The process also reduces energy input and minimal formation of undesired by-products such as gases, char or heavy tars. The Pilot Plant, currently under construction by Zeton, is a fully instrumented, continuous-flow unit designed to validate the HCT process under real-world operating conditions. As a key scale-up from the earlier R2 continuous flow reactor, the Pilot Plant will provide engineering data, system learnings and process insights necessary to inform the design and deployment of future demonstration and commercial facilities.
Siemens brings valuable experience from its work with chemical recycling companies, supporting the scale-up of emerging processes through advanced automation, control and digitalisation technologies. Its collaboration with Aduro reflects an interest in helping enable the next generation of recycling platforms—solutions that are differentiated, energy-efficient and aligned with the principles of a circular economy.
Siemens’ PCS neo system allows for seamless automation across plant modules, secure remote access and centralised data acquisition, giving Aduro precise control over key variables in the Hydrochemolytic process. The platform also supports Digital Twin development—helping simulate, test and optimise process conditions virtually before implementing physical changes. These tools will be essential as Aduro prepares to move from the Pilot Plant to future commercial-scale operations. While the immediate focus is on delivering automation and control systems for the Pilot Plant, Siemens will also provide engineering services to support scale-up planning for the Demonstration Plant. These contributions include insights into process optimisation, digital infrastructure and plant design—drawing on Siemens’ global experience with innovative recycling projects.
Joris Myny, Senior Vice President, Digital Industries, Siemens Canada, said: “At Siemens, we are committed to supporting advanced recycling technologies that enable circularity and reduce environmental impact. Aduro’s Hydrochemolytic process offers a compelling alternative to conventional methods, and we’re proud to bring our automation and digitalisation expertise to help scale it. With our PCS neo platform, we’re enabling real-time visibility, control and flexibility—key factors in optimising plant performance and supporting long-term growth. This collaboration reflects our support of innovators who are redefining how materials are recovered and reused.”
