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DMG® Technology by Powerhouse Energy

Distributed Modular Generation (DMG®) is an advanced and innovative platform designed for the conversion of non-recyclable waste plastics into clean energy. This cutting-edge technology regenerates plastic waste into power or hydrogen, providing a sustainable energy solution for transport, industrial applications, and the chemical and plastics industries.

Developed by Powerhouse Energy, DMG® represents a breakthrough in waste-to-energy technology, offering an efficient and environmentally responsible alternative for tackling plastic waste while supporting the transition to clean energy.

Powerhouse Energy Group plc is a publicly traded company listed on the London Stock Exchange’s AIM market under the ticker symbol PHE.

Process

How the process works

Feedstock

Waste plastic is shredded then separated into recyclables and non-recyclable feedstock. Feedstock can be shred, powder, dust or slurry. The process can deal with unrecyclable, mixed, sorted and contaminated plastics

Deoxidising

Non-recyclable feedstock is passed through a vacuum controlled bin feed system to remove excess air

Gasification

Air-free feedstock moves through the rotating ultra-high temperature thermal conversion chamber at atmospheric pressure, in a non-combusting environment. Converting it into EcoSynthesis gas

Disposal of by-product

The EcoSynthesis gas passes out of the reactor and any remaining, inert solids are disposed of according to local environmental standards

Syngas Treatment

The syngas is then ‘scrubbed’ twice by a shower of caustic liquid. This removes any impurities from the gas

Syngas Uses

The syngas can then be used by itself or used to immediately to generate electricity in a gas-powered turbine or separated into hydrogen.

Technology

Technology Overview

Feedstock

DMG® is designed to process a diverse range of feedstocks, including various polymer blends, bio-based fuels, and non-recyclable waste plastics. Mixed, unsorted, and contaminated plastics can be efficiently converted into energy-rich syngas through thermal processing, with minimal inert by-products.

Scalable

The technology features a scalable modular design, available in capacities of 2.5 to 40 tonnes per day. With its compact footprint, the system efficiently processes waste while allowing for flexible deployment and expansion

Optimised Multi-End Output

The DMG® technology produces high-purity syngas (>95%), which can serve as a direct substitute for natural gas. Additionally, it can be converted into various energy forms, including electricity, hydrogen, heat, methane, and liquid fuels, enhancing its versatility and sustainability.

Sustainable & Low-Carbon Solution

The DMG® system efficiently processes non-recyclable plastics, converting them into clean energy with a net negative CO₂ footprint. By generating low-carbon hydrogen and minimising emissions, it offers an environmentally responsible alternative to traditional waste disposal and energy production methods.

Efficient & Economical

The system efficiently converts high-calorific-value plastic waste into electricity or hydrogen, maximising energy recovery. Designed for cost-effectiveness, it operates on a small scale while delivering a positive financial yield, making it both an environmentally and economically viable solution.

Expertise

Altec’s expertise enables the efficient utilisation of contaminated, non-recyclable waste while generating a consistent and controllable syngas that has multiple end uses

Technology

History

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  Developed in year 2016 by PHE, the demonstration plant was designed and used for proving the concept of DMG® technology, system completed certification by DNV-GL
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  Since 2017, a laboratory scale demonstration unit of the DMG® technology has been operating at the Thornton Science Park in Chester
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  Extensive test engineering of a range of plastic feedstocks. The first extended trial produced syngas with over 50% hydrogen content by volume

Technology Centre

The Technical Centre in Bridgend, UK, was completed and became fully operational in February 2025, following successful testing in January. Initial tests on native plastics have yielded positive results, aligning with previous modelling and expectations. The facility benefits from improved temperature control using gas burners, surpassing the performance of the small demonstration unit and enhancing the efficiency of future commercial systems. It serves as a showcase platform for clients, allowing them to test their own waste materials. Additionally, the Syngas produced can be utilized as a feedstock for evaluating downstream equipment and processes.

Applications

Application of DMG® technology

All local municipalities and councils

Industrial estates and industrial H2 users

Marine ports

Recycling plants

Landfill sites

Islands