Munich Startup: What does your startup, Isar Pyrolysis, do? What problem do you solve?
Isar Pyrolysis: We develop and build small-scale, mobile and energy-self-sufficient pyrolysis plants for decentralized use. These can be used anywhere in the world to convert plastic waste into valuable fuels such as gasoline and diesel.
We're helping to remove plastic waste from the environment that would otherwise have degraded into microplastics or been incinerated. At the same time, we're providing fuel to remote communities.
Energy from plastic for remote places
Munich Startup: But that's been around for a long time!
Isar Pyrolysis: Plastic pyrolysis has so far only been available on larger to significantly larger scales. Our pyrolysis system can be easily transported to wherever it is needed, without any requirements for on-site infrastructure. This makes us a solution to the plastic waste problem in places where there is no other solution.
We also produce fuels directly from plastic waste. Pyrolysis oil typically requires further processing in refineries. We eliminate all those transportation routes.
Munich Startup: What is your founding story?
Isar Pyrolysis: The idea for plastic waste pyrolysis originally came from Elias, who had already pursued the project during his school days. During his studies, he approached the chair where Marc is pursuing his doctorate, seeking support in the areas of design, manufacturing, and layout. Together, they won the second prize at the TUM IDEAward and continued the project toward a startup. We also brought on board Daniel for prototyping and Florian for administrative tasks and IT. We are currently working at the TUM VentureLabs on our latest prototype, which we plan to test abroad by the end of the year.
Isar Pyrolysis awarded with TUM IDEAward
Munich Startup: What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Isar Pyrolysis: The design and manufacturing of our product are definitely the biggest challenges. Our goal for our plant to be cost-effective and low-maintenance has led to some technical challenges, which we have solved using the simplest yet most effective methods possible. This allows us to sell a simple-to-operate and low-maintenance pyrolysis plant that can be used by anyone, anywhere in the world.
Munich Startup: Where would you like to be in one year, where in five years?
Isar Pyrolysis: In one year, we aim to have tested and optimized our core components so that we can launch a market-ready version of the pyrolysis plant. In five years, we aim to have expanded our production and secured our supply chains so that we can supply the potential customers on our waiting list.
Munich Startup: How have you experienced Munich as a startup location so far?
Isar Pyrolysis: So far, our experience has been nothing but positive. The TUM ecosystem around the UnternehmerTUM provides a powerful network where you can receive a lot of support if you ask. From startup consulting, funding, workshops, to space and other founders, there are many opportunities to advance your own startup.
Munich Startup: Risk or security?
Isar Pyrolysis: A healthy mix of both. We choose the golden mean.
