NREL and Los Alamos National Laboratory's PAD-TIE platform is an advanced screening system designed to accelerate the discovery and optimization of enzymes that break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET), one of the most widely used plastics. The Challenge: Traditional enzyme development is slow and requires testing individual enzymes under controlled conditions. PAD-TIE overcomes this limitation by simultaneously screening tens of thousands of enzyme variants under industrially relevant conditions for PET degradation. How it Works: Unlike conventional methods, PAD-TIE evaluates enzyme efficiency, stability, and production potential in a single process, ensuring that only the most viable candidates move forward. Validated in lab-scale bioreactors that replicate industrial recycling environments, PAD-TIE supports sustainable PET recycling and upcycling, breaking plastic down into its fundamental building blocks (monomers) for reuse: without the need for harsh chemicals or energy-intensive processes. Validated in lab-scale bioreactors that replicate industrial recycling environments, PAD-TIE supports sustainable PET recycling and upcycling, breaking plastic down into its fundamental building blocks (monomers) for reuse: without the need for harsh chemicals or energy-intensive processes. Key Advantages: Scalable High-Throughput Screening : Evaluates tens of thousands of enzyme variants simultaneously, accelerating discovery. Optimized for Industrial Use : Operates at the optimal temperature for enzymatic PET degradation and high plastic processing efficiency, ensuring compatibility with existing recycling infrastructure. Efficient Resource Use : Uses widely available reagents and eliminates enzyme purification in early screening, reducing material and labor costs. Comprehensive Performance Assessment : Simultaneously measures enzyme activity, stability, and production efficiency, reducing failure rates. Adaptable to Industry Needs : Can be optimized for various processing conditions, different PET compositions, and additives in plastic waste. Market Applications: PAD-TIE is designed for industry partners seeking scalable, enzyme-based solutions for plastic waste management and recycling, including: Recycling & Waste Management: Enhances PET recycling by breaking plastic down into reusable monomers. Bioremediation & Environmental : Supports plastic degradation in marine environments, landfills, and polluted sites. Polymer Manufacturer s: Enables the integration of engineered enzymes into industrial plastic processing workflows. Bioplastics & Sustainable Materials : Contributes to the development of biodegradable plastics and ecofriendly alternatives. Development Status: Technology Readiness Level 6 - Full System Prototype Built with Components Thoroughly Tested Patent pending https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/tech-and-capability-search/pad-tie LA-UR-25-23941 LANL Tech Partnerships: Unlock the Innovative Potential Los Alamos Na…