MAS has unveiled the iQonicTwin Series with its flagship iQonicTwin HyperPET, a PET recycling platform aimed at food-contact applications. The solution integrates the company’s co-rotating conical twin-screw extruder with a Solid-State Polycondensation module driven by infrared radiation and vacuum, eliminating nitrogen. In this configuration, polycondensation occurs upstream of extrusion and targets intrinsic viscosity control, color stability and low acetaldehyde formation while lowering specific energy demand. MAS is partnering with PET recycling specialist Christian Schiavolin to incorporate his SSP approach into the MAS iQ Series. Beyond conventional bottle-to-bottle pathways, the platform is presented as extending to tray-to-bottle processing to widen feedstock options. The system is offered in three capacities for pilot and industrial lines, and MAS also adds rPET SSP and rPET Regran solutions to its updated portfolio.
Technology and process flow
In the HyperPET configuration, SSP is positioned before extrusion:
- rPET flakes are pre-heated and dried in a crystallizer.
- The Moby reactor applies infrared radiation under vacuum to reduce moisture and adjust IV to the target level for bottle-grade applications.
- Stored heat lowers extrusion energy demand and supports higher throughput.
Key advantages
- Extremely short dwell time in the SSP
- IV stabilization of rPET flakes
- Nitrogen-free operation, only electricity required
- Simplified operation and compact footprint
- Energy-efficient process
Feedstock flexibility
While traditional food-grade PET recycling focuses on bottle-to-bottle, HyperPET is positioned to enable future tray-to-bottle recycling. According to MAS, the line can process bottle and PET tray regrind either individually or blended, which broadens the available feedstock pool and reduces dependence on post-consumer bottles.
Operational and economic factors
According to MAS, the iQ HyperPET platform offers the following operational outcomes:
- Stable pellets with consistent IV and color, and low AA
- Compliance with stringent food-contact requirements
- Lower operating costs through energy savings and simplified handling
- Greater sourcing flexibility to support return on investment
Capacities and portfolio additions
iQonicTwin HyperPET is available in three capacities to support pilot-scale trials and industrial-scale production. MAS also offers an rPET SSP solution and an rPET Regran solution as part of its new portfolio.
Official launch
The iQonicTwin HyperPET solution will be presented at K Show 2025 in Düsseldorf, October 8–15, Hall 9, Booth D30, with on-stand consultations by the MAS team and PET recycling specialist Christian Schiavolin.
