A research team led by Dr. Chong-Pyo Cho at the Korea Institute of Energy Research has achieved a significant breakthrough in waste plastic recycling by developing a continuous oxy-fuel combustion-based process to convert hard-to-recycle thermoset plastics into high-quality syngas. This innovation addresses the challenges posed by the disposal of thermoset plastics, known for their high heat resistance and environmental impact. The process established by the research team involves gasification of mixed thermoset waste plastics to produce syngas, crucial for hydrogen production. By implementing oxy-fuel combustion control technology and a regenerative melting furnace system, the team achieved high temperatures of 1,300°C, enhancing process efficiency and reducing tar production by an impressive 93.4% without the need for additional purification systems. The pilot plant successfully processed one ton of mixed thermoset waste plastics per day, demonstrating a hydrogen production capacity of 0.13 kg per 1 kg of waste plastics. This achievement led to the acquisition of three domestic patents and one international patent, marking progress towards commercialization. Dr. Chong-Pyo Cho emphasized the significance of this development in improving gasification efficiency and reducing tar generation through domestically developed technology. The next steps involve scaling up the process to handle 2 tons per day and advancing research for commercial deployment. Supported by the Ministry of Environment's R&D program, this research not only addresses plastic waste recycling but also contributes to resource sustainability and aligns with global efforts to combat climate change. The project aims to further enhance the process's capabilities and eventually introduce it for widespread commercial use.