ARN and four hospitals signed a declaration of intent on April 8, 2025 to test whether thermal-pressure hydrolysis could process a broader mixture of hospital waste.
ARN already uses the technology for baby and incontinence diapers. The new trial includes absorbent underlays and other plastic- and fibre-containing materials. Rijnstate, Radboudumc, Canisius Wilhelmina and Sint Maartenskliniek are the hospital partners.
This is an extension to other waste streams, rather than a newly established adult-diaper collection service. The partners still need to test collection, separation and the handling of contaminants. The announcement is not evidence that all hospital waste can safely enter the diaper recycling process.