Sustainability Leaders Awards 2012 via colour sorting.
In order to remove any molecules that have migrated into the PP, two stages of decontamination were utilised. The sequence and conditions were critical to decontaminate the PP to food grade standards as demonstrated by a chal- lenge test. This test deliberately used six chemicals to represent the range found in households and in some products at artificially high levels.
According to Nextek, the properties of the final PP are very similar to vir- gin resin in mechanical and processing properties without any odour – allow- ing substitution for virgin resin in pro- duction of new packaging. Recent large scale manufacturing trials have been very successful in replicating these results and have produced clear and coloured resins
The process demonstrates a number of innovative aspects. These included the development of a solid-state decon- tamination process that could remove residual molecules at practical rates. A batch process reactor with high vacuum and tight temperature controls prevented melt down at elevated temperature con- ditions yet allowed maximum decon- tamination rates to be achieved. The technology has since been proven on industrial equipment tested by PIRA International to validate conformance to EU regulations controlling food contact packaging.
Brand owners and retailers have already expressed demand for this recycled PP to fulfill their CSR promises. In addi- tion, countries with developed collection infrastructure will now be able to direct PP packaging away from residual waste and into the recycling stream. The process will simplify plastics recy- cling for consumers who will be able to recycle virtually all plastics with less confusion and higher participation rates. Councils will be able to better reach land- fill diversion targets with the potential to cut carbon emissions by 432,000 tonnes.
JUDGES COMMENTS: This one hit the button, it is a very big breakthrough. It is pushing the envelope and has got support of industry for material that is hard to manage
FINALISTS APP
Atkins & Gloucestershire Highways ERM Waste Prevention Research Consortium London 2012 Premier Farnell
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