Recyclate

The pilot-scale fluoropolymer incineration study conducted by the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) represents a significant stride in understanding the environmental impact of fluoropolymer disposal.

In the turbulence, the future of the plastics industry emerges as a focal point. With forecasts depicting a landscape characterized by both challenges and opportunities. In a world inundated with crisis reports and the relentless hustle of daily life, it’s imperative now more than ever to hit the pause button and reassess our perspectives.

The IKV Colloquium demonstrated the plastics industry’s resilience in addressing current challenges. On February 28th-29th, 2024, RWTH Aachen University’s IKV organized an event fostering industry-academia exchanges.

The Consumer Goods Forum’s Golden Design Rule to remove problematic elements from packaging targets elements like undetectable carbon black, PVC, EPS, PS, PETG in rigid plastic packaging, and oxo-degradable materials. Its implementation promises profound environmental benefits and aligns with global sustainability goals.

The recycling industry faces significant challenges, particularly in accurately sorting and recycling mixed waste streams. This is especially important for food-grade post-consumer recycled. Innovations such as digital watermarks and fluorescent markers offer promising solutions to these challenges, potentially revolutionizing the recycling process.

Dell Technologies partners with materials firm Covestro to expand the possibilities of laptop recycling, to include designing for disassembly and increasing the amount of recoverable resin from each device. Together they are targeting a more circular solution.

TERRA, The Electronics Reuse & Recycling Alliance, has created a network of certified electronic waste (e-waste) recyclers, and is working to recover and reclaim the valuable materials contained in those discarded products.

Advanced flake sorting technologies are revolutionizing the recycling industry by enhancing the quality and efficiency of plastic recycling processes.

IKV has consistently pushed the boundaries of knowledge, fostered interdisciplinary collaboration, and driven progress in the dynamic field of plastics.

Hansgrohe and Phoenix Design have partnered to enable recycled ABS and upcycled PET to contribute to a more sustainable hand-held shower. The effort earned them a prestigious German eco-design award.

On the journey towards sustainability, car manufacturers have faced a significant challenge in reducing the carbon footprint associated with the use of animal leather in vehicle upholstery and interiors.  Some have chosen to rigorously trace the supply chain of animal leather, while others have partnered with innovative emerging companies. A few have embarked on designing their own leather using recycled materials.

UK design firm Gomi believes that technology products shouldn’t become obsolete. Rather, they should be beautiful, durable, repairable and have a circular lifespan. So it is making audio speakers and power banks from recycled plastic bags and repurposed lithium batteries.