Editor’s note: This story has been updated to include the company’s comments on TruStyrenyx plans.
UK-based Ineos Styrolution is closing its plant in Channahon, Illinois, consolidating its polystyrene production to two other North American sites.
The closure of the 400,000 metric ton/year plant is expected to be complete by the fourth quarter. The company will continue producing PS at its sites in Decatur, Alabama, and Altamira, Mexico. In a statement, the company added, “The company will continue demonstrating the sustainability and recyclability of PS products while supporting the long-term future of the industry.”
CEO Steve Harrington said, “Persistent margin pressures continue to threaten the viability of our North American business as we face ongoing pressure from industry oversupply. Following a thorough evaluation of market conditions, industry utilization rates, the site’s cost structure and long-term outlook, we have concluded that continuing operations at Channahon is no longer economically viable. At the same time, we remain confident in the long-term value of polystyrene.”
In 2023, Agilyx, Technip Energies and Ineos Styrolution announced a TruStyrenyx recycling facility would start up in Illinois by 2025, and in March 2025 an Agilyx representative said, “Progress on the TruStyrenyx plant is being made according to plan. This new facility will use innovative and sustainable technology to help meet the growing demand for recycled content environmentally conscious consumers and brands require. We are excited to share more details soon on this game-changing, circular solution for polystyrene recycling.”
This week, the company said, “The site closure does not affect our commitment to sustainability, including our advanced recycling initiatives, such as TruStyrenyx. We are continuing to explore ways to improve polystyrene recycling and support our customers with more sustainable solutions.”
Since then, Agilyx has exited the US chemical recycling business to focus on feedstock processing in Europe, and unwound its US joint venture with LyondellBasell and ExxonMobil. In 2025, Agilyx also closed its Oregon PS recycling facility, and the state is among a handful banning expanded PS foam products.
In Europe late last summer, Ineos Styrolution delivered its first commercial order of recycled styrene monomer feedstock, produced via depolymerization, and launched high-impact PS (HIPS) sour cream cups made with 30% recycled content.
Last November, the company announced it would close its PS plant in Wingles, France, and consolidate production at its Antwerp site in Belgium.
