MassVentures

MacroCycle Technologies is a company developing a chemical recycling process to convert polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyester-fiber waste into virgin-grade plastics. Their proprietary technology, based on synthesizing cyclic macromolecules, enables the production of recycled PET with lower energy use than traditional methods. This process offers a sustainable, zero-carbon, and cost-competitive solution for plastic upcycling, contributing to a circular economy.

River Otter Renewables is a recycling comany that produced biocrude oil from plant and waste as well as sewage and plastic waste.

Phoenix Tailings Inc. is a company focused on producing primary metal products from mining tailings, with a commitment to sustainability and economic efficiency. Founded in 2019 and based in Woburn, Massachusetts, the company specializes in the recycling and re-mining of hazardous by-products, particularly Bauxite Residue, from the aluminum industry. By treating mining and refining waste as a new source of ore, Phoenix Tailings aims to extract strategic materials essential for various industries, including aerospace, defense, automotive, biotechnology, and more. The company's innovative approach not only facilitates the recovery of valuable metals but also addresses environmental concerns by reducing hazardous waste and providing carbon-free alternatives for metal sourcing.

AI platform producing compostable and biodegradable plastic alternatives

Infinite Cooling Inc. is a renewable and environmental technology company that specializes in water recovery systems for industrial-scale facilities, particularly power plants. Founded in 2017 and based in Somerville, Massachusetts, the company has developed an innovative technology that utilizes high-voltage electric fields to capture and recycle water that evaporates from cooling towers. This advanced method not only mitigates water scarcity but also significantly reduces water consumption and treatment costs for its clients. By focusing on wastewater management and recycling, Infinite Cooling addresses critical environmental challenges while promoting sustainable practices in industries such as power generation and manufacturing.

Ascend Elements is a manufacturer of advanced battery materials, specializing in the reclamation of valuable elements from spent lithium-ion batteries. The company employs hydroprocess recycling and direct recycling techniques to deconstruct old cathode materials to the atomic level, allowing for the creation of new cathode materials. This innovative approach not only facilitates the recycling of battery components but also supports clients in maximizing their returns on investments, promoting the economic viability of recycling and the production of low-cost battery materials.

MSW Power Corporation specializes in manufacturing innovative waste management solutions. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Acton, Massachusetts, the company offers a range of products designed to convert various types of waste, including paper, wood, plastic, agricultural waste, and food, into usable energy in the form of electricity and heat. Key products include the BWEC GEM, an integrated system for waste conversion, and HydroPactor, which reduces the weight of waste by removing moisture. Additionally, MSW Power features a solid waste destruction system that employs mechanical and thermal processes to eliminate moisture from solid waste. The company is committed to providing environmentally beneficial and economically viable solutions that address energy and environmental challenges.

Ascend Elements is a manufacturer of advanced battery materials, specializing in the reclamation of valuable elements from spent lithium-ion batteries. The company employs hydroprocess recycling and direct recycling techniques to deconstruct old cathode materials to the atomic level, allowing for the creation of new cathode materials. This innovative approach not only facilitates the recycling of battery components but also supports clients in maximizing their returns on investments, promoting the economic viability of recycling and the production of low-cost battery materials.

ZwitterCo specializes in advanced membrane solutions for the treatment of highly impaired wastewater, enabling the reuse and recycling of water resources in industrial applications. The company's innovative reverse osmosis and nanofiltration technologies address the challenges of treating historically unfilterable streams by preventing fouling caused by organic molecules. ZwitterCo's membranes are chlorine-tolerant, back-washable, and resistant to irreversible fouling, which enhances their longevity and performance. By transforming wastewater from a liability into a valuable resource, ZwitterCo helps clients manage their water treatment needs more economically and sustainably, reducing chemical demands and improving operational efficiency.

Infinite Cooling Inc. is a renewable and environmental technology company that specializes in water recovery systems for industrial-scale facilities, particularly power plants. Founded in 2017 and based in Somerville, Massachusetts, the company has developed an innovative technology that utilizes high-voltage electric fields to capture and recycle water that evaporates from cooling towers. This advanced method not only mitigates water scarcity but also significantly reduces water consumption and treatment costs for its clients. By focusing on wastewater management and recycling, Infinite Cooling addresses critical environmental challenges while promoting sustainable practices in industries such as power generation and manufacturing.

SolidEnergy Systems Corp. develops and manufactures rechargeable lithium metal batteries primarily for applications in drones, wearables, smartphones, and electric vehicles. Founded in 2012 and based in Woburn, Massachusetts, the company focuses on producing high-performance lithium metal batteries and supplying essential materials, such as anodes and electrolytes, to major lithium-ion cell manufacturers. These materials can be integrated into existing manufacturing processes, allowing for scalability without significant infrastructure investments. SolidEnergy's pilot-scale production caters to prototype demonstrations and specialized aerospace markets, while its future growth is aimed at mainstream sectors like consumer electronics and electric vehicles. Additionally, the company is involved in developing AI-powered safety algorithms and recycling solutions, positioning itself as an integrated battery manufacturer with a commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Takachar is a company focused on transforming agricultural waste into valuable products, particularly eco-friendly cooking fuel. Operating primarily in Kenya, it has developed low-cost technologies that enable the conversion of unmanaged agricultural residues into charcoal, a non-toxic and affordable energy source for low-income households. Over the past three years, Takachar has established or assisted seven locally run waste-to-charcoal enterprises, some of which have achieved operational profitability. The company has successfully created approximately 100 jobs and sold 50 tons of its eco-char product. By utilizing oxygen-lean torrefaction reactors, Takachar helps farmers reduce waste through recycling, allowing them to generate additional income while preventing open burning of agricultural residues. The company aims to demonstrate the financial sustainability of these enterprises as a foundation for expanding its franchise network in the future.