Samsara Eco and NILIT to Establish Nylon 6,6 Recycling Facility
14.10.2024
The plant, expected to be operational by late 2026, will enable circularity in the textile industry, offering high-quality recycled polymers for brand use.
Low-Carbon Plastics Production: Infinium and Borealis Partner up
04.10.2024
This collaboration aims to reduce harmful emissions and enhance circularity in the plastics industry by offering environmentally friendly alternatives for consumer goods, packaging, and medical devices.
Recycling and reusing ABS plastics in-house
02.10.2024
Recycling on your own doorstep sounds almost too good to be true. But it is possible, as the Hansgrohe Group in Offenburg shows. The special highlight is that Hansgrohe, in partnership with ImpulsTec GmbH, has succeeded in recycling galvanized plastics. This means that decoated ABS plastics can be recycled directly in the company.
Material determination at the touch of a button using NIR spectroscopy
25.09.2024
Plastics industry strives to recycle plastics as comprehensively as possible. However, this is not always so easy – especially when different types of plastic are difficult to distinguish visually. This is when near-infrared spectrometers (NIR) come to the rescue, identifying the types of plastic and thus facilitating further processing.
Rubik's Cube turns 50: A plastic cube that keeps the world spinning
11.09.2024
Rubik's Cube is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Today it is made of plastic (some of it even recycled) and is as popular as it was on the first day.
Tyre Recycling: Keeping Valuable Raw Materials in the Loop
04.09.2024
Around 13.5 million tonnes of waste tyres are generated worldwide every year. This number is steadily increasing with the growing production and use of vehicles. While a significant portion of these tyres is already recycled or reused, there are also challenges such as current regulations. Nevertheless, tyre recycling remains an essential component of a circular economy.
UBQ is literally turning trash into treasure
30.08.2024
Using its patented process, UBQ takes everyday garbage, strips out any abrasive metals, glass or minerals, and converts it into thermoplastic resins that be molded or extruded into a vast range of durable products. Such garbage is everywhere, hence the company’s name of UBQ, which stands for ubiquitous. It’s a global problem and requires a global perspective.
Neste and Mitsubishi Corporation Form Strategic Partnership
23.08.2024
Neste Corporation and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) have announced a strategic collaboration to develop value chains for renewable chemicals and plastics. This initiative focuses on supporting Japanese brands across various industries, including food and beverage, apparel, and consumer electronics, to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and reliance on fossil resources.
Making Blister Packaging More Sustainable
21.08.2024
During the last allergy season, they may have ended up in your garbage once again: Blister packs. And you may have noticed how few tablets there are in a comparatively large pack. Not particularly sustainable, is it? That's what Olivia Falconnier Williams thought, too, and she set about researching how the packaging could be made more resource-efficient.
Digital Twin for Resource Management
14.08.2024
The circular economy presents an increasingly complex challenge for companies. Sustainability is no longer just a compliance issue but a crucial success factor. In this context, Interzero offers a solution: the Materialkonto (‘material account’). This provides companies with a digital twin of their resource and circular management.
PET Youth Camp for Sustainable Plastic Management
12.08.2024
Indorama Ventures, a global leader in sustainable chemical production, has partnered with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and its Department of Education to host the "PET Youth Camp for Sustainable Plastic Management." This initiative aims to educate and empower young leaders from BMA schools in effective plastic waste management, with a focus on PET recycling.
Jogging shoes and co.: plastics in sportswear
31.07.2024
The right outfit for every sport. Even for a short jog after work, sports enthusiasts can access sophisticated equipment. From breathable sports shirts and cooling running tights to running shoes. The choice is diverse. However, there is one unifying factor that most models have in common - plastics are used in their manufacture.
Advancing Circular Economy in the GCC Region
26.07.2024
Recycling Services LLC, a prominent plastic recycler in Oman and Saudi Arabia, has joined forces with POLYSTAR to bolster the circular economy in the GCC region. This partnership, initiated with the acquisition of POLYSTAR's Repro-Flex 120 machine, aims to transform plastic waste into reusable materials, fostering sustainability and economic diversification.
Sustainable Pleasure: Wine Bottle Made From rPET
17.07.2024
PET water bottles, PET beer bottles – so why not PET wine bottles? The combination may seem unconventional at first, but it offers significant advantages over glass bottles: PET bottles have a lower CO2 footprint, are more cost-effective, lighter, and safer due to their unbreakable nature. ALPLA's solution also stands out by using rPET.
Stadium seats for the Olympic Games made from plastic waste
17.07.2024
For Marius Hamelot, the 2024 Summer Olympics in France will provide a glimpse into his vision of turning trash into treasure. An architect and entrepreneur, the 29-year-old Hamelot has been working for several years to transform waste plastic collected in local Parisian neighborhoods into high-quality, durable products.
Closing the loop: turning old tires into new car parts
15.07.2024
In an ambitious move towards sustainability, Covestro, Neste, and Borealis have joined forces to revolutionize the recycling of discarded tires into high-quality automotive parts. This collaboration marks a significant step in driving circularity within the plastics and automotive industries.
Recycling solutions for a sustainable future
10.07.2024
WILDPLASTIC® has set itself the goal of ridding the world of “wild” plastic waste and offering innovative recycling solutions. The Germany-based company differentiates its products through the unique use of plastic that is recovered from the environment to be recycled and reused as granulate.
Bioplastics Made of Olive Pits
05.07.2024
Biolive, a pioneering biotechnology company, has launched a new biopolymer production facility in Istanbul, Türkiye, capable of producing 9,600 tons annually. Using olive pits as raw material, this innovative process aims to replace fossil-based plastics, offering a sustainable solution for the plastics industry.
Sustainable PET Film Recycling Solutions
04.07.2024
Leonhard Kurz will be presenting new sustainable recycling solutions for PET film at drupa 2024. In a video interview, Markus Hoffmann, Member of the Board at Leonhard Kurz, explains how the company takes back and reuses used PET film to promote the Circular Economy. The DM Maxliner 3D machine, which impresses with its efficiency and versatility, is also presented.
Digital Recycling Tool: CYCLOPS
03.07.2024
An innovative tool called CYCLOPS – Circularity Optimisation for Plastics has set itself the task of closing the gap between the need for information and the supply of recycled materials. By providing comprehensive data and assessments, it helps companies to make more sustainable decisions and organise their production processes in a more environmentally friendly way.
Sustainability thanks to the circular economy
26.06.2024
How does the circular economy work? Focus on sustainable practices and environmental benefits.
The world's first 18 micrometer thin MDO PE film
24.06.2024
At drupa 2024, Reifenhäuser and BOBST will be presenting the world's first 18 micrometer thin MDO-PE film. In the video interview, you can find out more about the development of the film, which reduces the amount of material used by 25% while ensuring the highest mechanical properties, appearance and further processing.
Digital reusable cup from Vytal and PepsiCo
19.06.2024
Vytal and PepsiCo are taking reusable tableware to a new level in their cooperation. With individual IDs for each cup, which can be read using a QR code or RFID tag, efficiency at large events is increased enormously. The technology not only optimises the return of the cups, but also the entire recycling process, thus making an important contribution to the Circular Economy.
Innovative extrusion process reduces odor in post-consumer plastic recycling
17.06.2024
Post-consumer plastic recycling faces a persistent challenge: unpleasant odors. Addressing this issue, Maris has unveiled a pioneering extrusion process tailored to tackle odorous contamination effectively.
NCC Enhances Circularity in Aerospace Manufacturing
07.06.2024
The National Composites Centre (NCC), in collaboration with Munich-based Cevotec, showcases a sustainable solution for aerospace manufacturing waste, aiming to reclaim up to 80% of dry fibre material. This proof-of-concept could revolutionize waste management practices by utilizing innovative Fibre Patch Placement technology.
Partnership in PET recycling drive sustainability forward
30.05.2024
The world of plastic recycling has witnessed an outstanding alliance between two important players in the recycling industry: GANESHA ECOPET Co., a division of the largest Indian PET recyclers – GANESHA Group –, and SOREMA, the division of Previero Srl specialized in the construction of plastic recycling plants.
Pioneering sustainable solutions in the cosmetic industry
17.05.2024
TotalEnergies Corbion and Sulapac have joined forces to advance sustainable practices in the cosmetics sector, emphasizing the integration of recycled and biodegradable materials into product packaging, fostering a more eco-responsible industry.
Plastics in the playroom: sustainable playtime
15.05.2024
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important – even in the playroom. From classic toys such as Playmobil and Lego to innovative projects that focus on recycling and the Circular Economy, there is a wide range of applications and initiatives that take into account both the needs of young users and the requirements for environmental compatibility.
Recycling photovoltaic modules
23.04.2024
"Don't lose it, reuse it!" is not just the exclamation of a puppy from a well-known animated children's series when he creates new objects from supposed garbage. Rather, it shows how important the topic of ‘recycling’ has become in general.
Closed-Loop Factory: from waste acceptance to product manufacture
18.04.2024
Recycling begins even before disposal. The entire life cycle of a product should be considered as early as the development stage. The start-up HolyPoly supports brand manufacturers throughout the entire recycling process. Their mission: to make plastics recycling a matter of course. To meet the growing demands, they recently opened the Closed-Loop Factory.
Renewable plastic for workboat hulls
15.04.2024
Aquaculture takes a sustainable leap forward with the unveiling of a groundbreaking workboat hull constructed from renewable plastic. Borealis and AKVA group will introduce this innovation in Mo i Rana, Norway, in Spring 2024, marking a significant milestone for circularity in marine technology.
AI in the Plastics Industry: Sustainability & Innovation
11.04.2024
AI is revolutionising modern industry. Thanks to it, complex processes can be automated or efficiency increased. In the plastics industry, AI not only plays a decisive role in the optimisation of production processes and the development of new materials. It also enables more precise waste sorting and therefore better recycling – a benefit for the environment!
Recycling: AI improves sorting efficiency and material purity
03.04.2024
Waste management is undergoing a transformation like never before, thanks to cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. Companies like PolyPerception are at the forefront of this revolution, redefining how waste is sorted and managed to meet the growing challenges of the industry.
The rediscovery of plastics in the textile industry
27.03.2024
The textile industry is in the midst of a green transformation, with sustainability and recycling taking centre stage. This change is being driven by a growing awareness of the environmental impact of textile production and consumption. Plastics, particularly synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon, are ubiquitous in the industry due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness.
Chemical Recycling of Plastics at Waste-to-En
13.03.2024
Every year, millions of tonnes of plastic waste are produced that are not recycled. The gasification technology from the start-up Waste-to-en offers a promising solution to this problem. The method efficiently converts waste into valuable resources while reducing both landfill fees and electricity consumption, providing a sustainable alternative in waste management.
Enzyme-Powered Recycling of Bioplastics
11.03.2024
Scientists at King's College London have unveiled a novel chemical recycling method, leveraging enzymes found in laundry detergents, to break down single-use bioplastics in record time. Published in Cell Reports Physical Sciences, this innovative approach promises a more sustainable cycle for plastics, traditionally seen as a challenge due to their long degradation period.
Gasification of plastic waste at low temperatures
06.03.2024
The specific requirements and high purity of plastic waste from life science research laboratories make recycling it a particular challenge. Re:Lab AB is tackling this problem with a chemical recycling process based on low-temperature conversion, which is a special form of gasification.
World's First PET Biorecycling Plant
01.03.2024
In a significant advancement for sustainable materials management, CARBIOS has teamed up with De Smet Engineers & Contractors (DSEC), renowned for its Engineering, Procurement, and Construction services in the biotech and agro-processing sectors. This collaboration aims to launch the world's first PET biorecycling plant in Longlaville, France, set to be operational by 2025.
FAQ on the Plastic Tax
14.02.2024
In response to the growing environmental impact, the EU has introduced the so-called plastic tax – a step that has far-reaching consequences for the plastics industry and raises many questions. Our FAQ offers you a detailed overview of the new tax regulation. Learn everything important about the objectives, effects, and critical voices from the industry regarding the plastic tax.
BASF and Inditex promote sustainable fashion with loopamid®
12.02.2024
The textile industry is facing major changes in sustainability, led by BASF and Inditex through the launch of loopamid®, a new technology for textile-to-textile recycling. This initiative represents a significant step towards a Circular Economy by offering a sustainable solution for the reuse of polyamide 6 (PA6), also known as nylon 6, from textile waste.
Borealis to acquire Integra Plastics AD, an advanced mechanical recycling player based in Bulgaria
26.01.2024
Borealis announces the signing of an agreement to acquire a 100 % stake in Integra Plastics AD, an advanced mechanical recycling player based in Bulgaria. The investment will strengthen Borealis’ advanced mechanical recycling portfolio.
New EU packaging regulation: Voices from the industry
25.01.2024
The current Packaging Directive has not been able to reduce the negative environmental impact of packaging. The European Parliament has therefore voted on new rules for packaging in the EU. At the end of November, the Parliament clearly adopted the proposal.
Start-up develops sustainable stretch film
17.01.2024
The start-up CAMM Solutions has developed a biodegradable alternative to conventional stretch films that can be used in a variety of ways. It also helps to reduce the environmental impact caused by plastic packaging.
Boosting PET recycling with higher standards for laboratory experiments
12.01.2024
In a study, Gert Weber, Uwe Bornscheuer and Alain Marty have identified standards for laboratory experiments with enzymes for PET recycling. It emphasizes difficulties in upscaling and highlights the promising enzyme LCC-ICCG, which converts 98% of PET in 24 hours, is economically more efficient and proposes new standards for laboratory research on PET recycling.
Digital marketplace as a driver for the Circular Economy
10.01.2024
The forthcoming EU packaging regulation is casting its shadow: minimum quotas for recyclates are putting the plastics industry under pressure. Cirplus presents a digital platform that not only makes the recyclate market transparent, but also enables real-time coordination between the players.
Coperion Recycling Innovation Center is Up and Running
05.01.2024
Coperion has opened its Recycling Innovation Center, providing a high-tech test facility for comprehensive testing of plastics recycling processes. The center complements Herbold Meckesheim's technical center and enables customers to simulate the entire recycling process and test technologies before making an investment.
Working in the plastics industry
19.12.2023
The plastics industry offers a wide range of career paths in various disciplines. Each has its own focus and gives the opportunity to promote sustainability in the industry.
Circular Polymers by Ascend and ReDefyne experts highlight expanded options for post-consumer recycled nylons, PET and PP
15.12.2023
Experts from Ascend, a leader in recycling post-consumer carpet, and ReDefyne highlight new opportunities for recycled nylon, PET and PP. Their proprietary process allows them to convert end-of-life carpet into feedstocks for materials used in various finished goods, including automobiles and household appliances.
Borealis expands its mechanically recycled plastic compounding capacity with closing the acquisition of Rialti S.p.A.
08.12.2023
Borealis has finalized the agreement to acquire Rialti S.p.A., an Italian polypropylene (PP) compounder for recyclates. With the acquisition, Borealis expands its portfolio of PP compounds based on mechanical recyclates by 50,000 tons per year and is committed to accelerating the transition to a circular economy in the spirit of EverMinds™.
From chaos to creation: How composites transform unsorted plastic waste into useful products
05.12.2023
Geoff Germon has not only recognized the problem of plastic waste in Fiji, but also wants to help the locals tackle this problem and build a sustainable business at the same time. His approach starts with a simple plastic pole.
traceless materials secures €36.6 Million Series A to build first industry plant for bio-circular alternative to plastic
01.12.2023
The bioeconomy start-up traceless materials has closed a financing round of 36.6 million euros, led by UB Forest Industry Green Growth Fund and SWEN Blue Ocean. The company produces a sustainable biomaterial that serves as an alternative to plastic and combats plastic pollution.
Educate, empower, inspire: Zukunftsmobil imparts plastics knowledge to young people
29.11.2023
Plastics are a valuable resource that can contribute to climate protection. Pöppelmann's Zukunftsmobil ("Future Mobile") educates schools, for example, about precisely this. With interactive workshops, it combines knowledge transfer about plastics with practical learning and shows children and young people the diverse possibilities and potential of plastics recycling and the Circular Economy.
AI-based sorting: the smart way to recycle plastics
22.11.2023
Artificial intelligence and plastics recycling – two concepts that have little in common at first glance, but which form an impressive symbiosis in practice. STEINERT and RE Plano are impressive proof of this. Thanks to AI, they have succeeded in overcoming the challenges of sorting polyethylene and polypropylene, paving the way for innovative recycling solutions.
Play-Tec® PCR awarded with "Blue Angel"
20.11.2023
The company Röchling SE & Co. KG offers its Play-Tec® PCR recycled plastic, a construction material for the sustainable design of long-lasting playgrounds. This has now been awarded the Blue Angel eco-label in the category "Environmentally friendly recycled plastics" (DE-ZU 30a).
Circular Economy in the canteen: Start-up develops reusable containers for the catering industry
15.11.2023
We all know the image: urban rubbish bins overflowing with disposable packaging. The Corona pandemic has made this problem more visible. The start-up MealGood has made it its mission to counter the throwaway mentality by developing bio-based reusable containers for the catering industry.
BASF celebrates 25th birthday of ecoflex®, the world's first PBAT biopolymer
13.11.2023
BASF SE celebrates the 25th anniversary of ecoflex®, the world's first PBAT biopolymer. Innovative biopolymers based on ecoflex® have been helping to solve numerous challenges in the plastics market since it came on the market. ecoflex® has also created new recycling opportunities for plastics and enables organic recycling.
From snack bag to cooling technology: The rebirth of aluminum-plastic laminates
08.11.2023
Thanks to aluminum-plastic laminates, our favorite snacks stay as crisp as we love them. But what if the shiny insides of snack bags hold much greater potential – one that goes far beyond accompanying a movie night? Passive cooling technology could benefit from upcycling these chip bags, says a research team from the University of Bayreuth.
Reifenhäuser relies on new "Circular Plastics Traceability" Guideline by using digital product passports from R-Cycle
06.11.2023
The Reifenhäuser Group uses R-Cycle, a digital product passport for plastics based on GS1 standards, to enable its customers to trace products. This facilitates data management in the manufacturing process and promotes the recycling of plastic packaging.
25 years technology centre at Brückner – expansion in sight
06.11.2023
Brückner Maschinenbau established a technology center 25 years ago, specializing in film stretching technologies. It has since become a crucial hub for research and development in the film industry, and they plan to expand the center to meet new challenges, including the use of recycled materials and bio plastics, energy production films, and membrane technologies.
From trash to stool: industrial designer gives plastic waste in Africa a second life
25.10.2023
Millions of tonnes of waste end up in our environment every year. This problem is particularly tangible in the global south. But innovative approaches and creative solutions can make a difference. Johannes Kastner focuses on one such solution: combining plastic recycling and design to not only combat the waste problem but also create social added value.
Start-up recycles plastic lab waste into new test tubes and petri dishes
20.10.2023
LabCycle, co-founded by a University of Bath graduate, opens the UK's first pilot plant for recycling plastic lab waste into new lab consumables and aims to scale the technology for healthcare and research labs. Their process turns plastic waste into high-grade pellets, reducing energy and water use and promoting recycling in a circular economy approach.
From the children's room to a Circular Economy: Sustainable materials for the toys of the future
18.10.2023
Children can best bring their fantasy world to life with toy figures. Although the miniatures have already been passed down from generation to generation, Schleich is now saying "There's more!" and opting for a green transformation. A key challenge: to balance durability and environmental friendliness without compromising on quality.
Chemical recycling: the supreme discipline for the Circular Economy in the plastics industry?
11.10.2023
Almost 90 % of all plastic packaging today still consists of virgin material. If we want to change this, we have to focus on chemical recycling in addition to mechanical recycling. According to the WWF study "Verpackungswende jetzt", a system change could save more than 20 million tonnes of new plastic by 2040. SÜDPACK is therefore investing in innovative chemical recycling technology.
Extrupet again chooses PET recycling technology from EREMA
10.10.2023
Extrupet will expand its PET recycling capacity in South Africa with a VACUNITE® from EREMA in June 2024 to meet growing demand for its PhoenixPET® recyclate. This decision comes as part of a long-standing partnership that began back in 2009, and will enable the planned expansion into East Africa and Nigeria with further plants for food-grade rPET.
They see me rollin' - Plastics in bicycles and current best practices
04.10.2023
Anyone who chooses the bicycle as a means of transport instead of the car every day saves the environment 3.2 kilograms of climate-damaging CO2. In addition, plastics can help to reduce CO2 emissions from the production and transport of bicycles. They can be used in all components and therefore make cycling even more environmentally friendly. This is shown by the following examples:
New material recovery facility opened in Banyuwangi under Project STOP's expansion program
02.10.2023
On September 16, a large materials recovery facility was inaugurated in Songgon Municipality, Indonesia, built in collaboration with the Banyuwangi Regional Government. Project STOP Banyuwangi, supported by various stakeholders, aims to establish a circular waste management system in Indonesia and achieve positive environmental impacts.
Recycling programme for engineering plastics
22.09.2023
Wherever there is movement in manufacturing, the plastic plain bearings and energy guiding chains from igus can be used. Even in packaging machines, e-chains and plain bearings made of high-performance polymers ensure movement. The products are durable but at some point they also have to be disposed of. igus has set up its own recycling programme for this purpose.
"Considerably more fossil oil would be consumed without mass balance"
22.09.2023
"By utilising our technology, we can produce a pyrolysis oil from strongly mixed plastic waste that also contains polymers such as PVC, PET, ABS and many others. We process the plastic waste the way it arrives from a waste sorting plant or from partners in industry."
AIMPLAS participates in a European project to develop environmentally sustainable printed electronics
19.09.2023
The REFORM project aims to develop sustainable electronic components using bio-derived materials to reduce the reliance on scarce metals. It addresses the environmental impact of e-waste by creating recyclable and eco-friendly printed electronics, involving various European partners, including AIMPLAS, to develop innovative recycling methods.
"Chemical recycling has the potential to close the existing gap in circular economy"
18.09.2023
"Chemical recycling is complementary to mechanical recycling and therefore of high priority for OMV – it is an important cornerstone of our Strategy 2030. It helps us to meet the growing demand for recycled polyolefins. Back in 2009 we developed a laboratory scale process that has since been patented."
Making the impossible possible: Recycling multilayer packaging
13.09.2023
Was multilayer packaging the Achilles' heel of the recycling industry? Not anymore, according to Krones and their project partners BASF, Südpack, and Tomra. Together, they're unveiling a solution that accomplishes what was once deemed impossible. At the heart of this innovation is a new adhesive that enables effective material separation during the recycling process.
Recycled PET for India's first 100 % rPET beverage bottle produced by Srichakra Polyplast on Starlinger equipment
12.09.2023
Coca-Cola India has launched the first 100% recycled PET water bottle in India, manufactured by Srichakra Polyplast on a Starlinger PET bottle-to-bottle recycling line. The launch followed approval from the Food Safety Authority of India, and Coca-Cola plans to further expand this sustainable packaging solution.
HDPE plastics from post-consumer flows
05.09.2023
Recycling service provider Interzero developed a patented process to enhance the reuse of HDPE plastics, allowing the creation of blow-molded products from 100% post-consumer lightweight packaging material. The process uses a chemical modifier to control the recycled material's viscosity, making it suitable for blow-molding and eliminating the need for re-sorting and additional primary plastic.
Smart Waste: how AI can increase the recycling rate of plastics
23.08.2023
Nine percent – that is the proportion of all plastic waste that was recycled from 1950 to 2015. This must change urgently. Artificial intelligence can help. EREMA and the Software Competence Center Hagenberg (SCCH) are researching exactly how in a joint project.
Unwinding in high quality: Continuously detached and recycled thermoplastic carbon fiber tapes with a new recycling approach
17.08.2023
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute have developed a recycling process to recover used fiber composite material from pressure tanks and use it for new lightweight products. The process preserves over 90 percent of the materials' mechanical properties. This contributes to the sustainable production of thermoplastic fiber composite products.
"Chemical recycling is still in its infancy, but has huge potential"
16.08.2023
"At the moment an increasing number of large corporations are jumping on the chemical recycling bandwagon, all of them operating internationally. There is hope that they will contribute considerably towards the implementation of the necessary infrastructure in all parts of the world."
"There must not be a cannibalisation of material flows"
16.08.2023
"Unlike mechanical recycling, chemical recycling breaks down these compounds instead of utilising existing polymers as material."
Challenge accepted: PET recycling in Myanmar
10.08.2023
Before new processes are established, an analysis of the current situation is usually carried out. For the recycling of PET bottles in Yangon, Myanmar, the Italian manufacturer SOREMA and the local recycler Commercial Plastics Co. did just that. After conducting washing and recycling tests on bottles collected there, SOREMA designed a flake production line.
Turning plastic waste into sustainable growth: Driving Circular Economy in Kenya
02.08.2023
Waste management can be a major challenge in countries of the Global South. Ecopost, a social enterprise from Kenya, has set itself the task of overcoming this challenge. In partnership with Borealis, Ecopost uses an innovative business model to collect and recycle plastic waste, create jobs and promote a circular economy.
Sustainability meets quality: new car tyre sets standards
26.07.2023
Sustainability or quality? This is the question manufacturers of plastic or rubber goods ask themselves when it comes to the use of recycled or bio-based materials, for example. Continental proves that the two can go hand in hand with its new UltraContact NXT series tyre. It consists largely of sustainable materials and impresses with high performance values.
"There is no one and only solution for recycling"
25.07.2023
The future of circular economy in the plastics industry is a complex mixture of mechanical and chemical recycling. Prof. Dr. Manfred Renner, Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology (UMSICHT), describes these technologies as indispensable components of the life cycle of plastics.
"Recyclates from chemical recycling will be more expensive than virgin material"
14.07.2023
Mechanical recycling processes have already matured. Chemical recycling is comparatively young. But will it be able to establish itself?
Next-level recycling with digital innovations: Cologne-based plastics processor igus invests in start-up cirplus
13.07.2023
The Cologne-based plastics specialist igus invests in the Hamburg-based start-up cirplus to close the plastics cycle and revolutionize the recycling trade of technical and standard thermoplastics. With their recycling platforms, igus and cirplus want to jointly drive the regenerative plastics industry in the future.
Design4Recycling: flat plastic bottle for sustainable wine enjoyment
11.07.2023
If wine bottles were designed for the first time today, they would look different – the British start-up Packamama is sure of that. Especially in view of the climate crisis, packaging needs to be rethought. This is how Packamama's flat plastic bottle came into being, which is not only highly sustainable but also makes quite a visual impact.
Together for Sustainability (TfS): "The name is the message"
07.07.2023
The German Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (wdk) has been committed to responsible procurement practices for raw materials and services in the rubber industry for many years. To advance the implementation of this goal, the wdk is now cooperating with Together for Sustainability (TfS), an international non-profit initiative.
New guide to the future of plastics
06.07.2023
Researchers from Fraunhofer UMSICHT and the TNO Institute have developed four strategic approaches to enable the transition to a circular plastics economy. In addition, they are launching the European Circular Plastics Platform (CPP), a platform for cross-sector collaboration to remove barriers and share solutions.
Supporting this once-in-a-generation opportunity to tackle plastic pollution
06.07.2023
Borealis has ambitious goals to improve the circular economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and use renewable energy to create a more sustainable future. Borealis is a member of the Business Coalition for a Global Plastics Treaty and supports the development of a UN agreement to combat plastic pollution.
Fraunhofer LBF develops new approach for rapid process stabilization of plastics
22.06.2023
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF see online rheological investigations as a promising method to accelerate the development process by determining the optimal amount of antioxidants more efficiently.
Bioeconomy startup traceless receives millions in funding from the German Federal Ministry for the Environment
22.06.2023
The startup traceless materials GmbH has developed the compostable biomaterial traceless®, which is considered a nature-based, environmentally friendly alternative to plastic. The project is funded with around 5 million euros from the Environmental Innovation Program of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMUV).
Sustainable all round: natural fibre-reinforced plastic from the grass factory
16.06.2023
Grass grows quickly, is uncomplicated and robust - and a strong partner for plastics. Biowert Industrie GmbH proves this by using the renewable raw material to produce a natural fibre-reinforced plastic that is sustainable all round.
Global chemical companies sign agreement on R&D Hub for plastic waste processing incubated by World Economic Forum
16.06.2023
Seven member companies of the World Economic Forum’s Low-Carbon Emitting Technologies (LCET) initiative have signed a collaboration agreement with the independent research organization TNO to establish an R&D Hub for Plastic Waste Processing. The seven companies include BASF, Covestro, Dow, Mitsubishi Chemical, SABIC, Solvay and Lyondell Basell.
Collaboration project shows: multi-layer packaging can be separated and recycled on an industrial scale
08.06.2023
A Collaboration project involving BASF, Krones, SÜDPACK, and TOMRA gives proof of concept for closed recycling loop for PET-based multi-layer packaging.
Bioplastics become more attractive for industry
08.06.2023
As part of project RUBIO, the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research IAP is developing novel types of the bioplastic polybutylene succinate (PBS). The bioplastic films made from PBS are recyclable, biodegradable and can be processed on standard extrusion lines.
Enzyme that breaks down PET plastic: Leipzig scientists increase efficiency
18.05.2023
A research team at the University of Leipzig has further improved the functioning of an enzyme that can degrade PET plastic. Through computer simulations and experiments, they were able to rationally improve the enzyme and are now working on developing the third generation of the enzyme.
LAPP uses new bio-based plastic from BASF – Organic ETHERLINE® now available too
18.05.2023
The company LAPP is using a new bio-based plastic from BASF for the sustainable version of its ETHERLINE® FD P Cat.5e for Industrial Ethernet. The bio-based plastic is Elastollan® N, the thermoplastic polyurethane from BASF, which is part of its circular economy strategy.
PackTheFuture Award 2023: These are the winners!
12.05.2023
56 entries, 10 winners, 1 special prize and 1 honourable mention - that's the positive balance of the PackTheFuture Award 2023. The results were announced at the award ceremony at interpack in Düsseldorf. The award honours innovative and sustainable packaging solutions made of plastic.
Covestro expands its range of more sustainable polycarbonates
11.05.2023
Covestro AG offers a polycarbonate with a 90 percent recycled content of plastic from post-consumer waste (PCR) that can be used in consumer electronics, among other applications. The company is collaborating with Jabra on the Evolve2 headset and making progress on climate-neutral solutions through mass balancing.
High-performance additives for sustainable plastics: Evonik invests in Interface Polymers
04.05.2023
Evonik Industries AG has invested in the British company Interface Polymers Ltd. This investment from the Sustainability Tech Fund strengthens Evonik's position in sustainable products and recycling processes. Interface Polymers' technology enables easier processing and recycling of plastics.
Better recycling of plastic packaging: New process extracts fragrances
04.05.2023
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute have developed an environmentally friendly process to remove fragrances from plastic packaging. The process is based on pressurized water extraction and removes the fragrance limonene from HDPE packaging. By evaluating the data using machine learning methods, it was possible to optimize the extraction parameters.
A status check on the UN's plastic waste agreement
24.04.2023
Plastic pollution is a serious threat to human health and the environment. After years of awareness-raising, there is strong and widespread alignment on the need to act. This was the unmistakable and welcome message from the U.N.'s first negotiating session on a global agreement to end plastic waste in December.
Circular Collaboration Platform: for more recyclates in food packaging
21.04.2023
The share of recycled material in plastic products is growing. The exception: food packaging. The requirements for the quality of the material for food contact are high, but in the case of recyclates there is still often a lack of corresponding information today. The project COPPA wants to create transparency in this area – with an open digital platform.
Project STOP marks major milestones and expands waste collection services to over 300,000 people
20.04.2023
Project STOP, co-funded by Borealis and Systemiq, has created positive social and environmental impact in three cities in Indonesia, including the launch of the scale-up programme Project STOP Banyuwangi Hijau from Muncar into the Banyuwangi Region.
Solar-powered system converts plastic and greenhouse gases into sustainable fuels
13.04.2023
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a system that can convert plastic waste and greenhouse gases into sustainable fuels and other valuable products – using energy from the sun alone. In the system, two waste streams are simultaneously converted into two chemical products.
A wholly sustainable plastics economy is feasible
13.04.2023
In a study under the leadership of the ETH Zurich, the scientists point out that plastic products must be better aligned with the circular economy in future. The study finds that circular plastics are feasible within planetary boundaries. This would require at least 74 percent of the plastic to be recycled.
"Wonder Matter(s)" – Plastics at Milan Design Week 2023
12.04.2023
Plastic is a wonderful material. It can take on almost any shape, colour and texture. This versatility opens up countless possibilities for designers. This is also proven by the exhibition "Wonder Matter(s)", which will take place during the Milan Design Week 2023 and in which innovative plastics will be presented in partly extraordinary installations.
First PET Bottle-to-Bottle Recycling Line in Kenya
12.04.2023
Megh Group company T3 (EPZ) Limited is going to install the first PET recycling system for bottle-grade rPET and resin in Kenya and Eastern Africa, a Starlinger recoSTAR PET 165 HC iV+ recycling line, in Athi River just outside Nairobi.
Researchers use light to convert abundant lignin into plastic that can be continually recycled
05.04.2023
Boston College chemists have developed an approach that uses light to transform lignin into sustainable plastics. The findings advance a potential strategy for the waste-free system of polymer manufacture and re-use known as the circular plastic economy.
Parcel logistics: the future belongs to reusable plastic boxes
29.03.2023
Cardboard dominates parcel logistics. Shrinkage and return transport costs have so far been too big hurdles for reusable containers made of plastic, even though there is a lot to be said for them in terms of sustainability. BOOXit overcomes these hurdles – and adds one on top: the reusable system is not only sustainable, but also robot-compatible.
LyondellBasell and KIRKBI invest in APK to develop recycling technology
20.03.2023
The two companies LyondellBasell and KIRKBI signed an agreement to make an investment in the company APK. APK has developed the unique solvent-based Newcycling® process, which separates the different polymers of multi-layer packaging materials and produces recycled materials with a high degree of purity suitable for new packaging materials.
Sustainable plastic packaging: AI supports design and production
15.03.2023
Plastic packaging made from recycled material? Yes, but please as high quality as possible – and recyclable! This poses great challenges for manufacturers, because the use of recycled materials still often leads to downcycling. One key to more sustainable plastic packaging lies in digitalisation. This is also where the KIOptiPack project comes in.
Borealis Borcycle™ C chemical recycling provides circular solutions for crosslinked polyethylene for the Wire & Cable and Infrastructure sectors
13.03.2023
The company Borealis is using its Borcycle™ C chemical recycling process to recycle crosslinked polyethylene (PE) types into recycled polyethylene. The EverMinds™ approach provides innovative and viable solutions to recycling challenges in the Wire & Cable and Infrastructure industries.
Degradation of Plastic Waste using newly Developed Biocatalysts
13.03.2023
A research team from the University of Greifswald, together with scientists from Covestro AG, has identified enzymes capable of degrading polyurethanes and polyvinyl alcohol. The research helps to establish a sustainable and environmentally-friendly process to recycle these polymers.
Stable yet degradable: researchers develop chemical pre-determined breaking points in polymer chains
08.03.2023
We encounter high-density polyethylene (HDPE) every day, for example as detergent packaging or films. HDPE is particularly stable and resistant. In terms of sustainability, however, it still has a long way to go, because its high stability is often accompanied by poor degradability.
From the sea into the tunnel: KraussMaffei customer Oldroyd uses 100% sea plastics for its products
06.03.2023
What do a tunnel and hiking boot have in common? Both have a membrane that prevents the ingress of rain. In the case of the tunnel, the Norwegian company Oldroyd is an expert for the membrane and its injection-molded fixing product. It uses CX machines from KraussMaffei and 100% sea plastics.
Neste, Uponor, Wastewise Group and Borealis enable chemical recycling of hard-to-recycle plastic waste into new high-quality plastic pipes
06.03.2023
Neste, Uponor, Wastewise and Borealis have successfully produced pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) which was based on feedstock gained from chemically recycled post-industrial waste plastic from PEX pipe production, using an ISCC PLUS certified mass-balancing approach. The partner companies believe this project is among the first implementations of chemical recycling of PEX.
Ice Ice Baby! Sustainably packaged with Styropor® Ccycled™ by BASF
21.02.2023
Imballaggi Alimentari, an Italian based company specialized in the production of ice cream packaging, has launched the Remaxigel boxes made of Styropor® Ccycled™. The boxes made of EPS (expandable polystyrene) boast excellent performance and were primarily designed for artisanal ice-cream shops.
SABIC enables Scientex in developing worlds first PP flexible food packaging using PCR ocean bound plastic
21.02.2023
SABIC, a global leader in the chemical industry, collaborates with Scientex in the packaging value chain to enable the manufacturer to develop material for the world’s first flexible food packaging made based on advanced recycled OBP, using SABIC® certified circular polypropylene (PP). The material is being used in a premium brand noodles packaging sold in Malaysia.
Bioplastics for medicine: sustainability and quality in harmony
17.02.2023
The healthcare field produces lots of medical plastic waste. The idea of designing medical products with sustainability in mind is certainly not new. However, medical-grade plastic materials must meet strict regulatory requirements, often prompting the aspect of sustainability to take a back seat.
Back to the cycle: #tide turns ocean plastic into high-quality recyclates
15.02.2023
Plastic is a resource without which our life today would not be possible - and thanks to recycling, we can even use it several times over. However, we know from reports what can happen if the recycling process does not run properly: the plastic sometimes ends up in the sea. Getting it back into circulation from there and turning it into a usable product is not easy.
Suraj Logistix adopts innovative solutions for a more sustainable cement packaging
06.02.2023
Woven sacks are made of a single polymer family and are therefore already quite easy to recycle. Sustainability requirements for packaging products have increased worldwide and at the same time the need to develop better packaging products to protect the packed commodity has also gained further importance.
Turning plastic waste into a valuable soil additive
02.02.2023
University of California, Riverside, scientists have moved a step closer to finding a use for the hundreds of millions of tons of plastic waste produced every year that often winds up clogging streams and rivers and polluting our oceans.
Performance meets circularity: fibre-reinforced plastics become recyclable
27.01.2023
Recycled plastics are often less efficient than new plastics. But they can be upgraded - namely by using fibre composites. In turn, they make the plastics difficult to recycle. The All-Polymer project shows how both are possible: high-performance materials and a closed cycle.
BASF and StePac partner to develop sustainable packaging for shelf-life extension of fresh produce
23.01.2023
BASF SE and StePac Ltd. have joined forces to create the next generation of sustainable packaging specifically for the fresh produce sector. Supplying StePac with its Ultramid® CcycledTM, a chemically recycled polyamide 6, BASF will provide its partner greater flexibility to advance contact-sensitive packaging formats to a higher sustainable standard within the circular economy.
Turning plastic trash into pharmaceuticals
16.01.2023
A novel method developed by USC pharmacy and chemistry researchers has exciting implications for plastic waste collecting on Catalina Island and L.A.-area beaches.
Innovation venture of Covestro awarded: Niaga® wins Circular Economy Prize
04.01.2023
Niaga®, an innovation venture of Covestro, is the winner of the 2022 European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Community Circular Economy Prize in the Digital Products Passports (DPP) category. The EIT Circular Economy Community awards relevant start-ups and SMEs (small and medium sized enterprises) with significant new solutions accelerating the circular economy.
From old to new: Evonik produces PEBA from used tires
03.01.2023
Many raw materials deserve a second life, and especially in view of resource conservation and the circular economy, the reuse of raw materials is particularly important. Evonik shows how it's done: The company produces PA-12 elastomers from old tires.
All tidied up: Customizable cleaning solution for light-based 3D printing
21.12.2022
As the saying goes, one cannot make an omelette without breaking eggs – in a metaphorical sense, this is also the case when it comes to the 3D printing process. In most cases, material residue must be removed manually and then discarded. Cubicure delivers a different way that's automated, customizable, and sustainable.
Orthopaedic insoles made of Elastollan® – more comfortable, sustainable and individual
19.12.2022
Shoe insoles made of Elastollan®, BASF's thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), offer a high degree of individualization freedom. The production of shoe insoles in 3D printing enables smooth transitions between soft and hard structures.
Circular clothing – recycling of polyester-containing textiles
13.12.2022
The overall eco-balance of polyester is better than that of natural fibres like cotton. Nevertheless, textiles containing polyester do not have a good reputation. Today, one property of the material in particular is criticised: it does not decompose naturally. This makes a collection and recycling of such textiles all the more important. But a circular economy for polyester does not yet exist.
Acting Responsibly: Jungle feeling at the Röchling stand at K 2022
08.12.2022
This year, the company Röchling SE & Co. KG chose the design of a jungle at K 2022 in Düsseldorf to present its sustainable product families as well as innovative new products. Under the motto 'Acting responsibly' the concept was well received by visitors and customers.
K 2022: Heat-resistant C-PET light cup promotes circular economy – a transparent alternative for hot-fill applications
01.12.2022
Together with Sukano AG and Kiefel Packaging B.V., the company SML Maschinengesellschaft mbH has developed a cup made of C-PET light that is heat-resistant and combines transparency and recyclability.
Plastics of the future will live many past lives, thanks to chemical recycling
01.12.2022
A research team at the University of Colorado Boulder has discovered how durable plastics used in the aerospace and microelectronics industries broken down into their most basic building blocks and then formed again into the same material. In the process, they do not lose their physical properties.
Bend it like PU – Plastics in sport
30.11.2022
Today, no one can imagine leather balls, wooden rackets, bamboo poles or cinder tracks in sporting competition. Natural materials have now been almost completely replaced by other materials: plastics. They are light, robust and highly functional. Thanks to intensive research, they are also becoming more and more efficient – and ultimately lead to new world records.
EREMA Group focuses research and development on circular economy for PET fibres
22.11.2022
With its new business unit "Fibres and Textiles", the EREMA Group is intensifying the development of recycling solutions focusing on PET fibre materials that are produced in fibre production and in further processing steps. In a dedicated fiber pilot plant, a cross-company team is working on recycling solutions for fiber-to-fiber applications.
Borealis and REHAU accelerate circularity for furniture products with Bornewables™ premium circular polyolefins
22.11.2022
REHAU chooses Borealis' Bornewables™ over conventional polypropylene (PP) for production of their RAUKANTEX evo sustainable edgebands. The robust and durable Bornewables™ feature color-stable chemistry and flexibility and are suitable for processing straight and contoured edges.
Sustainable face masks: recyclable and climate-friendly
21.11.2022
With the development of the first 100 percent recyclable FFP2 mask, the Austrian Grabher Group is taking an important step towards sustainability. The sustainable FFP2 masks made of polypropylene are not only fully recyclable, but also cause significantly fewer CO2 emissions during their manufacture than conventional protective masks.
Covestro collaboration with SABIC unlocks improved recyclability for mono-material flexible plastic pouches
21.11.2022
The company Covestro AG has developed a new heat-resistant coating for use on mono-material stand-up pouches made with SABIC's PE/BOPE technology. The coating facilitates high-speed industrial production of stand-up pouches made with SABIC® BOPE biaxially oriented polyethylene. The new solution enables simpler, single-stream recycling.
Wonderfully versatile: Plastics shape the car of the future
17.11.2022
The versatility of plastic is one of its strongest characteristics, and it makes it particularly popular amongst designers. Plastic is also a favored material for BASF's design team: in collaboration with Citroën, the chemical company rethought the classic car - with plastic as the central building block that made the implementation of the innovative concept possible in the first place.
Rebirth for shampoo bottles & co: launch of the first deposit system for plastic packaging from the bathroom
02.11.2022
The demand for high-quality recyclates has exceeded the supply on the market for years. So far, too much high-quality plastic is still being burned as waste instead of being recycled. The Berlin-based start-up Circleback wants to change that by setting up a deposit system for plastic packaging from the bathroom.
No longer gone with the wind: Fraunhofer Institute develops concepts for rotor blade recycling
28.10.2022
After about 25 years, the rotor blades of a wind turbine have usually had their day. But what happens to them then? Together with the Institute for Energy and Circular Economy (IEkrW), the Fraunhofer Institute for Wind Energy Systems (IWES) is developing concepts in a project that should enable rotor blades to be better recycled and reused.
Recycled PET bottles are turned into adhesive tapes
26.10.2022
The company tesa® supports the field of sustainability. The new tesa® 60412 packaging tape has a backing made of 70% recycled PET and a water-based acrylate adhesive system. The production process is completely solvent-free. Used PET products are recycled and used as raw material for the backing material.
Researchers find a new method for recycling polystyrene
11.10.2022
A research team led by Guoliang "Greg" Liu implemented the goal of making the current main method for recycling polystyrene profitable. By exposing the material to ultraviolet light and adding a chemical catalyst this method creates diphenylmethane (DPM), which has a high economic value. This new recycling method would create an incentive for polystyrene to be collected and recycled.
BASF and ARCUS sign agreement on the production and procurement of pyrolysis oil from mixed plastic waste
03.10.2022
ARCUS plans to start up first commercial pyrolysis plant for mixed plastic waste in Germany and will supply the company BASF SE with pyrolysis oil. This will enable further expansion of BASF's ChemCyclingTM business. The Agreement foresees take-up of up to 100,000 tons of pyrolysis oil per year.
Safely packaged: recyclable reusable transport box protects the environment and sensitive goods
20.09.2022
Packaging materials are often not very sustainable. This is partly because they are only designed for single-use transport. Researchers in the Fraunhofer LBF's Plastics department have taken this fact as an opportunity to develop an alternative. With their recyclable reusable transport solution for sensitive goods, the climate, the environment and resources can be protected.
A new self-healing coating material
19.09.2022
A transparent protective coating material that can heal itself within 30 minutes when exposed to sunlight has been developed by a research team from the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT).
Engineering enzymes to help solve the planet's plastic problem
12.09.2022
Researchers at the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB) have developed a new enzyme engineering platform. The focus is on plastic-degrading enzymes that can be improved through directed evolution. To test their platform, they engineered a new enzyme, HotPETase, through the directed evolution of IsPETase.
Pioneering recycling turns mixed waste into premium plastics with no climate impact
08.09.2022
Carbon atoms in mixed waste can replace all fossil raw materials in the production of new plastic. Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden are demonstrating this with a new thermochemical recycling method. It is modeled on the natural carbon cycle and could eliminate the impact of plastics on the climate or even clean the air of carbon dioxide.
Redefining sustainability with antimicrobial solutions for plastics
06.09.2022
Plastic is one of the most versatile materials on earth, it has influenced all areas of our lives. However, in the last few decades, the reputation of plastics has been tarnished by the environmental threat predominantly associated with single-use, disposable products that cover landfills and pollute our oceans.
Climate-neutral with a plan – sustainability in the plastics industry
30.08.2022
Successful business means sustainable business. Because according to KraussMaffei, sustainability has both ecological and economic advantages. Recently, the company reaffirmed its goal of being climate-neutral by 2030. Its strategy includes recycling solutions, energy-efficient construction and heating, and sustainable product development.
Augmented Reality in the plastics industry: individualized instructions for the entire product life cycle
25.08.2022
Individualization is the trend. In the plastics industry, too, more and more individualized machines are coming onto the market. Of course, these machines also require individualized manuals with instructions tailored specifically to them. However, this is not yet a reality today. The AdaptAR project wants to change that – with the help of Augmented Reality and an app.
"They are recyclables, not waste" – Recycling of rigid polyurethane foams
23.08.2022
Circular Economy is teamwork. Everyone can contribute, and every single step counts. Covestro is making its contribution – together with other partners such as Circularise – with the CIRCULAR FOAM research project. This is about recycling rigid polyurethane foams that are used in the insulation of buildings or refrigeration appliances.
BASF's IrgaCycle™ stabilizes recycled plastics used to protect pineapples from sunburn in Malaysia
20.08.2022
The two companies BASF and 3T Industries Sdn Bhd are helping pineapple plantations in Malaysia to increase yields and conserve resources. 3T Industries has used BASF's IrgaCycle™ UV033 DD to improve the production of 100% recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) sheets to protect pineapples from solar radiation.
Public obligations for recycling: Germany – a good role model?
16.08.2022
With the Packaging Act, Germany is taking a further step towards an all-encompassing raw material cycle for packaging. One of the requirements aims to significantly increase the amount of recyclable packaging. Packaging used in mail order or "dispensed" for to-go products has recently been required to be registered in the LUCID Packaging Register.
Saves energy and costs: two-stage process makes plastics recycling more efficient
16.08.2022
In recycling, plastics are usually sorted, cleaned, ground, compounded and regranulated to be reprocessed as regranulate. The material must therefore be melted twice – first for granulation, then for injection moulding. ENGEL has now developed a process in which plastic waste can be processed as flakes in injection moulding directly after grinding. This makes it highly energy-efficient.
Borealis introduces a portfolio of circular base chemicals
15.08.2022
The Borvida™ portfolio introduces sustainable base chemicals to Borealis' range of product offering. The range will initially be based on non-food waste biomass, and chemically-recycled waste. In the future it will also draw from atmospheric carbon capture. The traceability of the content will be based on Mass Balance, which is ISCC PLUS certified.
LyondellBasell helps to close the loop on Polypropylene by joining NEXTLOOPP initiative
08.08.2022
LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) is participating in the NEXTLOOPP initiative, which aims to produce circular recycled food-grade polypropylene (FGrPP) from used packaging. NEXTLOOPP is able to close the loop of polypropylene (PP) by means of a combination of cutting-edge technologies. Polypropylene is separated from the rest and the polymer is decontaminated.
A unique catalyst paves the way for plastic upcycling
25.07.2022
After developing the first process inorganic catalyst to break down polyolefin plastics into molecules, a team led by Ames Laboratory scientists has now developed a strategy to accelerate the conversion without losing the desired products.The result is that larger platinum particles reacted more slowly with the long polymer chain, while the smaller ones reacted faster.
Superworms capable of munching through plastic waste
18.07.2022
University of Queensland scientists further research the common "superworm" Zophobas morio, which can eat through Styrofoam thanks to a bacterial enzyme in its gut.
Audi: Recycling plastic waste in-house
14.07.2022
For a year now, automobile manufacturer Audi has been running a pilot project for a closed plastic cycle. Assembly aids are produced from packaging material in a 3D printer. We took a closer look at the Neckarsulm plant to find out exactly how this works and what challenges have to be overcome.
New PET-like plastic made directly from waste biomass
11.07.2022
Scientists from EPFL's School of Basic Sciences have successfully developed a biomass-derived plastic. Similar to PET, it meets the criteria for replacing several current plastics while being more environmentally friendly.
Rubber recycling: AZuR network advocates a second life for scrap tires
05.07.2022
The German AZuR Network was launched in June 2020. The "Alliance Future Tire" lives up to its name and has been pursuing the goal of finding and implementing new and innovative solutions for an ecologically and economically sensible tire cycle for two years now.
Reusing odor-contaminated plastics
01.07.2022
In the Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Circular Plastics Economy (CCPE), the four Fraunhofer institutes are researching odor barrier skins for polymer compounds made from recycled materials. With special additives, odor barrier skins with a skin thickness of 0.25 mm can be effectively realized. The odor-contaminated plastic can be "packaged".
A digital product passport for more sustainability
21.06.2022
The EU's Circular Economy Action Plan stipulates that by 2050 all plastic packaging must be completely recyclable and consist of at least 70 percent recycled material. The majority of plastic waste still ends up in landfills or incinerators – in the worst case, in the environment.
Sabic launches new upcycled resin made with ocean bound plastic waste
14.06.2022
The company SABIC introduced LNP™ ELCRIN™ WF0061BiQ resin, a novel material that uses ocean-bound polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles as a feed stream for chemical upcycling into polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) resin. The company has added many different and innovative grades to the LNP ELCRIN iQ portfolio, including glass- and mineral-reinforced products and flame-retardant formulations.
Clear plastics recycling using high-purity sorting and separation technologies
13.06.2022
The COVID-19 pandemic put acrylic (transparent) shields, better known as "sneeze guards," in high demand in their role as protective barriers. However, they pose a major challenge for recycling companies at the end of the product life cycle since the different plastics must be separated and sorted to maintain purity and facilitate reuse.
Dow, LOVERE, YCJ, and P&G join hands in organizing "Design for Circularity" Art & Design Competition
01.06.2022
The companies Dow (NYSE: DOW), LOVERE, YCJ and Procter & Gamble (P&G) will organize the first "Design for Circularity" art and design competition in China.
New method to convert plastic trash into clean hydrogen fuel
23.05.2022
To convert plastic waste into hydrogen, researchers at the Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) have developed a new method. The new method is based on pyrolysis, a high-temperature chemical process. The project is also investigating the potential of other new technologies for decentralized waste management.
Treated plastic waste good at grabbing carbon dioxide
16.05.2022
Researchers at Rice University have developed a technique to turn plastic waste into an effective carbon dioxide (CO2) sorbent for industry.
Borealis and Grabher partnership gives used FFP2 face masks another life
09.05.2022
High-quality face masks made in Austria by Grabher contain fully recyclable meltblown polypropylene supplied by Borealis and can be recycled in Austria. The new Partnership between the companies Borealis and Grabher is embodiment of the Borealis EverMinds™ spirit of taking action to accelerate the move towards plastics circularity.
Solvay partners with Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials to recycle end-of-life medical components
04.05.2022
Medical devices made from Solvay's high-performance thermoplastic Udel® are recycled thanks to a collaboration between Solvay and Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials. Solvay knows how to evaluate the chemistry of the end-of-life polymer, while MCAM has expertise in washing and mechanically cleaning the material.
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Joint Mission: Circular Economy
04.05.2022
The mission of the new "We are plastics" alliance between the three major German Plastics Associations is to promote the circular economy. They focus on the dialog with consumers and NGOs, on the network between individual initiatives and on presenting facts and changes of the industry.
Mobile plastics recycling project wins WDO's World Design Impact Prize
30.03.2022
The Montreal-based World Design Organization has named a mobile, solar-powered, plastic-waste upcycling platform as the winner of its World Design Impact Prize™ for 2021.
WorldStar Award 2022 for school milk packaging made from 100% rPET
24.03.2022
A project for circular economy by Austria's school milk producers and the three Upper Austrian companies PET-MAN, Greiner Packaging, and Starlinger viscotec has received the WorldStar Award from the World Packaging Organization. Schools are supplied with dairy products in rPET cups that are recycled after use.
BASF and NEVEON cooperate on mattress recycling
24.03.2022
The first trials on chemical recycling of mattresses by BASF and NEVEON were successful. BASF is developing a wet chemical recycling process for used mattresses made of flexible polyurethane. Mattress take-back pilot is an important step towards circular economy.
ERDE Recycling: recovery and recycling systems for agricultural plastics
18.03.2022
ERDE is a recovery and recycling system focused on the return of silage sheets and covers and agricultural stretch films in Europe. The company has big goals, such as a recycling rate of 65 percent in 2022, but also faces challenges, such as the cross-border transport of agricultural plastics.
Lightweight truck-mounted toolbox with novel plastic composite hybrid solution
09.03.2022
SABIC is cooperating with Dongfeng on the development of a novel plastic composite hybrid solution to produce a robust yet weight-saving toolbox for assembly on vehicles.
Massel innovates with liquid stock range in SIG-Carton Packs with SIGNATUR FULL BARRIER packaging material
09.03.2022
SIG's SIGNATURE FULL BARRIER packaging material is made from renewable, forest-based materials and responsible sources. The small amount of polymers used is certified. The Australian company Massel is now launching products in these SIG-Carton Packs.
Fish in packaging made from chemically recycled plastic
07.03.2022
Salmon fillets from Bömlo are supplied in the world's first EPS fish box. Ccycled is made from chemically recycled plastic and BASF, Vartdal Plast and Bremnes Seashore, the partners for this joint project, are contributing to making the circular economy a success.
PERC Solar Cells from 100 Percent Recycled Silicon
07.03.2022
In order to be able to reuse silicon, a working group from the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE and the largest German recycling company for PV modules, Reiling GmbH & Co. KG, have developed a solution, in which the silicon in the discarded modules was recycled on an industrial scale and reused to produce new PERC solar cells.
Chemists develop radical way to make it easier, more profitable to recycle plastic
01.03.2022
By modifying carbon-hydrogen bonds, chemists from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill transform plastic trash into tougher, stronger material. They started with plastic foam packaging used to protect electronics during shipping that otherwise ends up in landfills.
Breakthrough in separating plastic waste
21.02.2022
With a new technology it is possible to analyse and categorise the type of plastic by using a hyperspectral camera in the infrared area and machine learning. The technology makes it possible to separate plastics based on a purer chemical composition than is possible today, and this opens up for completely new opportunities to recycle plastics.
Digital watermarks: sort post-consumer waste more intelligently
16.02.2022
How can plastic packaging become intelligent? By providing them with digital watermarks that can be read by sorting systems and thus simplify the sorting process. The fact that this technology works was proven in the pioneering HolyGrail 1.0 project with a proof of concept.
Researchers seek to re-use waste plastics to make valuable petrochemicals
14.02.2022
With a new method West Virginia University engineers upcycle single-use plastic packaging into petrochemicals. The produced ethylene and BTX aromatics from plastic upcycling can be used as feedstocks to re-make plastics.
Neste and Ravago plan to set up a joint venture to focus on chemical recycling of waste plastic
14.02.2022
Neste and Ravago intend to establish a joint venture to build an industrial chemical recycling facility in the North Sea port of Vlissingen, the Netherlands. From there, global chemical recycling activities will be managed, building on the further development of thermochemical liquefaction technology by U.S.-based Alterra Energy, an innovative chemical recycling technology company.
Recycled packaging foils with the "Blue Angel" label
07.02.2022
Profine GmbH is the first profile system provider to use polyethylene (PE) packaging foils that consist of 80 percent PCR standard and are interested in making supply chains more environmentally friendly.
Dishwasher components made from recycled plastic
01.02.2022
Recyclable furniture from the creative workshop
24.01.2022
Plastic is a versatile material that can be used for a wide variety of projects. What's more, it is reusable and can be given new forms – so it can be given a second life in the sense of the circular economy. In the plastikfabrik in Saarbrücken (Germany), Daniela and Pascal Becher breathe such a second life into plastic.
Bence Körmendi
19.01.2022
Petchem Business Unit Director, MOL Hungarian Oil and Gas Company Plc.
Borealis acquires minority stake in UK-based sustainable packaging innovator Bockatech
10.01.2022
Borealis, one of the world’s leading providers of advanced and circular polyolefin solutions and a European market leader in base chemicals and fertilizers, announces that it has acquired a minority stake in Limited, a UK-based growth-stage green tech business and inventor of the innovative EcoCore ® manufacturing technology platform for sustainable packaging.
Young plastics researchers are on the trail of proper recycling
07.01.2022
The Pöppelmann Research Week on the topic of "Plastics and Recycling" brought young people closer to the topics of plastics and recycling.
Plant from plastics?
03.01.2022
Plastics have taken the world by storm over the last century, finding applications in virtually every aspect of our lives. However, the rise of these synthetic polymers, which form the basis of plastics, has contributed to many serious environmental issues. The worst of these is the excessive use of petrochemical compounds and the disposal of non-biodegradable materials without recycling.
Using circular economy principles to recycle toys
28.12.2021
Many of us are familiar with this scene in our children’s bedrooms: when the kids have outgrown their toys, the latter typically get boxed up until we finally take heart and purge them. But it doesn’t have to be that way: the initiative of the HolyPoly company takes recycling steps to create new toys – that look slightly different.
Turning a problem into a solution: Wasser 3.0 studies ways to remove microplastics from water without a filter
15.12.2021
Plastic is an important material and a virtually irreplaceable component in many products. However, the breakdown and disposal of plastics after use also goes along with microplastics. At the end of its life cycle, plastic material first ends up in the environment and then comes back to us: a study has found that we ingest about five grams of plastic every week without realizing it.
Program aims to help students tackle the challenges of plastics waste
07.12.2021
Plastics waste presents a major challenge for humanity. There are many innovative people taking impactful action to address this issue, but their efforts are often on a small scale or overlooked, with no good means to scale them to make a significant difference.
Plastics recycling deadlines loom – will companies meet their goals?
06.12.2021
Many of the world's largest consumer product companies, including Cocoa-Cola, Unilever and PepsiCo, have set ambitious targets for replacing virgin plastics with recycled ones – typically 25 percent of their total packaging by 2025. So far, however, most companies have made only modest progress and will need to ramp up their efforts to reach these lofty goals.
Track and trace system as an answer to encourage reusable packaging
06.12.2021
The digital economy can help us prevent packaging waste, say researchers at Lancaster University and University of St Andrews, who are working with the founders of Reath, a start-up business based in Edinburgh, with a mission to build the digital infrastructure for reuse.
How a bacterium may help solve the plastic pollution crisis
06.12.2021
Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. The accumulation of petroleum-based plastics is having devastating effects on our environment, wildlife and human health. Researchers revealed a bacterium that is not only able to degrade difficult-to-recycle petroleum-based plastics but can also sustainably produce more environmentally friendly biodegradable plastics.
Commercially viable production of climate-neutral plastic is possible
01.12.2021
Since the early 1950s, plastics have found their way into almost every area of modern life. Between 1964 and 2014, plastic consumption increased twentyfold, from 15 to 311 million tonnes per year. Not only has environmental pollution from plastic waste increased during this time, but the amount of petroleum its manufacture consumes is large, as are the associated greenhouse gas emissions.
Special concrete additive made in Costa Rica
29.11.2021
The Center for Regenerative Design and Collaboration (CRDC) in Costa Rica aims to turn plastic waste into a valuable resource for the construction industry.
Digital marketplace for recyclates: cirplus networks entire value chain
25.11.2021
Sometimes you have to see a problem with your own eyes – or feel it with your own feet – to want to do something about it. At least that's how it was for Christian Schiller, who launched cirplus, a digital marketplace for recyclates.
COVID-19 and plastics: How the pandemic highlights the need for sustainable waste disposal
22.11.2021
The COVID-19 pandemic caused an explosive increase in the demand of disposable plastic products, stalled the implementation of sustainable policies, and evidenced the inherent problems of today's waste management schemes. Now, scientists comment on the necessary courses of action for governments, industries, researchers and consumers to help us transition to a sustainable plastic circular economy.
What recycled plastic can do: Blocks made from biocomposites for the "Classrooms of Hope" in Indonesia
17.11.2021
There is much discussion these days about the circular economy, and the means for incorporating plastics into this model. Recycling a used plastic bottle back into a clean, new bottle has some obvious environmental advantages. But a much more impactful model, in many cases, would involve turning tons of discarded plastics into products with a very long lifespan.
A new approach for recycling plastics
08.11.2021
Two EPFL engineers have come up with a revolutionary new method for tackling plastic pollution by harnessing the inner workings of proteins. The result? A whole new way of looking at plastic recycling.
Effective deconstruction of polyurethane by catalyst based on earth-abundant metal
08.11.2021
Polyurethane (PU) is one of the most versatile thermoset synthetic polymers which through careful choice of monomer and formulation, can be seen in a myriad of different forms ranging from rigid-, flexible and molded foams to adhesives and elastomers just to name a few.
Recycling: PolyWaste technology wants to make the term "plastic waste" obsolete
03.11.2021
It's no secret, and yet the numbers are shocking: less than one-tenth of the total amount of plastic produced to date has been recycled. Currently, the rate is 14 percent worldwide. A full 32 percent ends up in the environment. This urgently needs to change – which is what the Australian company PlasTech Recycling Limited thought as well. And so they developed an innovative technology.
NYU chemist receives Department of Energy grant for plastic "upcycling" research
02.11.2021
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded Tianning Diao, associate professor of chemistry at New York University, with funding for research on "upcycling" poly(acrylic acid), a plastic component commonly used in household products. Diao and her lab will work to develop chemical methods to repurpose the polymer as new functional materials.
3D nano-inks push industry boundaries
02.11.2021
Mechanical engineering researchers at Michigan Technological University have created a way to make a 3D-printable nanocomposite polymeric ink that uses carbon nanotubes (CNTs) — known for their high tensile strength and lightness. This revolutionary ink could replace epoxies — and understanding why its properties are so fantastic is a first step toward its mass use.
Water meets cellulose: Environmentally friendly plastic made from hydroplastic polymers
27.10.2021
Researchers at the University of Göttingen have developed a new method to create environmentally friendly bioplastics from renewable raw materials.
Simple thermoset plastic recycling using a peptide solution
25.10.2021
Epoxy resin is a type of thermoset resin commonly used in glue, paint and composite materials. NIMS and ISMA have developed a new thermoset plastic recycling system capable of easily decomposing epoxy resins in an aqueous solution of a naturally derived peptide.
Maritime rope could be adding billions of microplastics to the ocean every year
25.10.2021
The hauling of rope on maritime vessels could result in billions of microplastic fragments entering the ocean every year, according to new research. The study, by the University of Plymouth's International Marine Litter Research Unit, is the first to explore the potential for rope to become a source of microplastic pollution in the marine environment.
Fraunhofer IGB
Greenhouse gases headed for sustainability: How CO2 is turning into plastic
22.10.2021
Carbon dioxide is driving climate change. To combat it, emissions must be reduced. Fraunhofer researchers have developed an approach to use the climate gas as a raw material for plastics.
NSF EPSCoR grant will advance manufacturing of renewable and recyclable plastics
18.10.2021
Plastics are an indispensable part of today's society. These nimble polymers help keep foods fresh, cars safe, arteries clog-free and have countless other uses. But the benefits come at a cost. Each year millions of tons of discarded plastic pollute ecosystems, harm animals and exacerbate climate change.
Research guides future of plastic waste chemical recycling
18.10.2021
New research from Cornell University aims to ease the process of chemical recycling – an emerging industry that could turn waste products back into natural resources by physically breaking plastic down into the smaller molecules it was originally produced from.
$25 million investment in polymer upcycling research to reduce plastics waste
12.10.2021
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced $25 million in funding for 10 research projects to build the scientific foundations for new technology solutions that reuse discarded plastics to make valuable products and reduce plastics waste.
Bringing back the good name – a museum of plastic about plastic
06.10.2021
In May 2021, another museum of a special kind was created in front of the Reina Sofía Museum in Madrid: a Plastic Museum. It was not just a museum ABOUT plastic, but MADE OF plastic. The media response to the campaign of the EsPlásticos association was huge.
The road to the future? New ways with used plastics
30.09.2021
Viewing used plastic not as waste but as a material can reduce the problem of littered oceans. One promising approach is its use in road construction.
Michael Davies
28.09.2021
Technical and Marketing Manager, Dover Chemical Corporation
The BPF Launches Online Recycling Resource with PlasticsEurope & RECOUP
22.09.2021
The British Plastics Federation (BPF), in conjunction with PlasticsEurope and RECOUP, has launched a new online recycling resource kit aimed at educating students about recycling plastics and the science of polymers.
Microplastics from recyclable plastics on the rise
15.09.2021
Recyclable plastic has been recorded on popular beaches and urban watercourses in Adelaide, South Australia – highlighting the need for more efforts to remove and reuse all plastics from waste streams, particularly in urban areas.
RECOUP win innovate UK funding for plastics recycling communications research
09.09.2021
Charity, and leading plastics recycling organisation, RECOUP, have secured a grant from Innovate UK, the UK's innovation agency, to co-fund an industry-led communications and behaviour change research project in Kent.
ERDE Recycling fullfills voluntary commitment and collects over 50% of agricultural films
09.09.2021
Once more, the IK initiative ERDE (Crop Plastics Recycling Germany) was able to significantly increase its collection volumes in 2020. At 543 fixed collection points and 1936 mobile collections, a total of 26,910 tons of agricultural films were collected and recycled.
New method developed to solve plastics sustainability problem
03.09.2021
Plastics sustainability has come a long way in recent years thanks in large part to scientific advances. But even as plastics become more and more environmentally friendly, the world continues to be polluted as many industries rely on them for their widely used products.
Stand-up paddle board made from renewable lightweight materials
16.08.2021
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Wood Research, Wilhelm-Klauditz-Institut, WKI, want to replace plastic boards with sustainable sports equipment: They are developing a stand-up paddle board that is made from one hundred percent renewable raw materials. The ecological lightweight material can be used in many ways, such as in the construction of buildings, cars and ships.
Circular Economy: using digital tools to produce high-quality recyclates
03.08.2021
Only a small percentage of materials currently used in plastic processing are recyclates. Yet these secondary plastics are in no way of inferior quality to virgin material. The culprit is often a lack of data and poor communication between recyclers and plastic manufacturers. Digital solutions can help close material cycles in the plastics industry.
Sensor-based symphony: sorting and recycling in perfect harmony
30.07.2021
What can be recycled, and what can't? Sorting waste is a challenge – for both people and machines. TOMRA, pioneer in this field has introduced its new generation AUTOSORT in 2020 under the motto "Symphony of all sorts". This is intended to take the plastics industry a big step further towards sustainability.
Röchling BioBoom: bioplastics make cars greener
27.07.2021
Alongside many other industries, the automotive sector is also moving in the green direction. Electromobility is booming. However, plastics produced from non-renewable raw materials such as petroleum are also installed in e-cars. Röchling Automotive has recognized the need for bioplastics that meet the high requirements for automotive applications – and has developed BioBoom.
Recycling robot could help solve soft plastic waste crisis
19.07.2021
Despite an improvement in plastic recycling in recent years, landfill is a growing issue. Soft plastics like cling wrap and plastic bags are a major contributor to the problem, with 94 percent going to landfill in 2016-17.
Fraunhofer, SABIC, and Procter & Gamble join forces in closed-loop recycling pilot project
12.07.2021
The Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Circular Plastics Economy CCPE and its Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology UMSICHT have developed an advanced recycling process for used plastics. The pilot project with SABIC and Procter & Gamble serves to demonstrate the feasibility of closed-loop recycling for single-use facemasks.
Benjamin Von Wong: "I make your impact unforgettable."
08.07.2021
We love plastic. It is versatile, lightweight, durable – and sustainable, as long as it gets recycled or reused. Carelessly discarded in nature, (disposable) plastic products not only give the material a bad image, but above all lead to massive environmental problems. This is precisely the issue that Canadian artist Benjamin Von Wong has addressed.
Cleaning up the polluted edge of the world: Lindner and Comberplast recycle fishing nets
31.05.2021
Presented at K 2019 in Düsseldorf and now used to clean up the edge of the world: Lindner Recyclingtech’s Micromat 1500. Circular economy pioneer Comberplast has been using the machine to successfully shred old fishing nets and ropes collected from the coast of Patagonia.
Upcycling spongy plastic foams from shoes, mattresses and insulation
12.05.2020
Researchers have developed a new method for upcycling polyurethane foams, the spongy material found in mattresses, insulation, furniture cushions and shoes.