MULTI-LAYER PACKAGING | MATERIALS
Recyclability is a key factor for multi-layer packaging – and has been improved by solutions including mono-material designs, compostable materials and new recycling techniques
Raising recyclability of multi-layer packaging
The need for increased sustainability has presented a problem for multi-layer packaging. While it helps to extend shelf life, it is difficult to recycle – making the product hard to justify in terms of sustainability. However, this dilemma has been addressed in a number of ways. German recycling specialist Plato Technology has developed a separation system that cuts the proportion of downcycling in packaging films that are made from multi-layer materials. The process is suitable for food plastic films – the so-called ‘310 fraction’ – and enables a film-to-film material cycle, it says. The system will be presented at this year’s K2022 show in Germany. The process is characterised by high separation efficiency and large volume throughputs – which is
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why recycling of films with low bulk densities is also economical. It is suitable for series production and is based on a simple, resource-saving technology, says Plato, which does not require complex NIR sorting technology or the use of water. The process has two stages. In the first, a new conditioning process changes the aerodynamic properties of the single- and multi-layer films. This allows the materials to be sorted in the second step in the air sifter. To allow this separation, Plato has optimised the separator for small bulk densities. The process has been tested on real material
mixtures such as Green Dot’s 310 film fraction from post-consumer waste. The polyethylene (PE) recovered in this way was processed into reusable granules and used to blow new films – completing the cycle from film-to-film.
Main image: Plato’s new separator system cuts downcycling in packaging films made from multi-layer materials
� September 2022 | FILM & SHEET EXTRUSION 35
IMAGE: PLATO TECHNOLOGY
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