The PDI Materials business group aims to produce high-value-added materials from recycling activities.

The most important project in this business group remains PDI-CRT. The project aims to create a sustainable business from the recovery of metals from industrial waste using innovative ultra-high-temperature (UHT) processes. Initially, the project will process Electric Arc Furnace Dust (EAFD) from steel mills, whilst zinc oxide will be recovered from the process.  In the future, the project will to recycle more complex industrial waste, such as electronic waste, solar panels and batteries.

PDI-CRT has gained exclusive rights in Thailand to deploy such technology, which will be provided by ScanArc Plasma Technologies AB of Sweden. This technology has the highest sustainable performance commercially available, and as such contributes to the most efficient, environmentally friendly and commercially effective hazardous metals waste recycling.

The project is tentatively located at PDI’s Rayong plant, which is a strategic location as it is close to most of the steel mills producing EAFD.  The total investment is about 1,700 million Baht, of which 850 million Baht equity. The basic design process of the main equipment has been completed with positive results.

The project has received full support from the Department of Industrial Works, as it will help Thailand efficiently manage its industrial waste and solve the issues of illegal dumping or export of hazardous waste. PDI signed a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Industrial Works on April 19, 2016.