Bhubaneswar-based startup Plasticure leverages AI and NIR spectroscopy to convert mixed plastic waste into high-purity recycled polymers for a circular economy
(OdishaPlus Business)
Plastic, once hailed as a revolutionary invention, has today become one of the world’s biggest environmental challenges. Its widespread use has resulted in enormous quantities of waste, much of which ends up in landfills, rivers and oceans. Mixed, multi-layered and contaminated plastic waste is particularly difficult to recycle using conventional methods, while the growing presence of microplastics has raised concerns about their impact on ecosystems and human health.
Addressing this challenge requires innovative technologies that can recover and reuse plastic more efficiently.
Founded in 2025, Bhubaneswar-based Plasticure Private Limited is working to tackle this issue through advanced plastic recycling. The startup was founded by Dr. Jyoti Agarwal, a Ph.D. in Plastic Technology with expertise in polymer science, plastic recycling and sustainable materials, along with co-founder Bebi Jain, who leads business development and strategic partnerships.
Explaining the idea behind the venture, Dr. Agarwal says, “Plasticure began with a vision to address one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. Plastic has become an inseparable part of our daily lives, but its widespread use has led to serious environmental and health concerns. While many people recognise the problem, only a few take meaningful steps towards finding solutions.”
Currently at the prototype development and pilot validation stage, Plasticure has developed a recycling process that combines Artificial Intelligence (AI), Near Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and a solvent-assisted purification process. AI and NIR technology help identify and separate different types of plastic, while the specialised cleaning process removes ink, odours and other contaminants without damaging the material.
This enables mixed plastic waste to be converted into near-virgin quality recycled polymers for high-value applications. The startup also offers AI-enabled plastic sorting systems, modular recycling units, technology licensing, and solutions that help industries meet Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requirements and strengthen circular economy practices.
Speaking about the company’s approach, Dr. Agarwal says, “At Plasticure, we believe sustainability is more than just a word or an idea—it is a responsibility that must be practised every day. Creating a cleaner future is not solely the responsibility of governments or corporations; it is a shared responsibility. Every individual has a role to play in managing plastic waste responsibly and contributing to a more sustainable world.”
Plasticure’s innovation journey has been supported by Startup Odisha under the MSME Department, Government of Odisha, through funding, mentoring, networking opportunities and ecosystem support that have helped the startup advance its technology and entrepreneurship journey.
Acknowledging this support, Dr. Agarwal says, “I would like to sincerely thank Startup Odisha and the MSME Department, Government of Odisha, for their unwavering support, guidance, and funding. Their encouragement has played a significant role in our journey and has enabled us to be part of Odisha’s vibrant startup ecosystem.”
As Odisha continues to strengthen its innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, startups like Plasticure are contributing to the development of technology-driven solutions for sustainable waste management.
Discover how Odisha’s startups are driving innovation across climate tech, clean energy, healthcare, AI, manufacturing and agriculture—creating jobs, attracting investments and powering sustainable growth. Read this.
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