Following the findings of 18 testing campaigns commissioned in 2023, RecyClass has updated its recyclability evaluation protocols and released a new set of design for recycling guidelines for all plastic packaging streams. The latest set provides the industry with the most up-to-date recommendations for improving the recyclability of plastic packaging.
Several components have been evaluated via independent testing facilities to investigate the behaviour of common packaging technologies during the sorting and recycling processes.
Following the alignment with the Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR), the RecyClass' recyclability evaluation protocols have been updated to improve the processing conditions and characterization of the materials. New testing procedures for PET bottles, and adhesives applied on PET bottles were also developed.
RecyClass carried out trials on non-PE decorations on HDPE bottles, with extensive coverage and on PP and HDPE rigid rolling packaging to further clarify the sorting performances of different plastics.
A more detailed classification of ink binders and AlOx coatings with PVOH primer in PO films along with PU-based materials for laminating adhesives in PP flexible packaging are some notable additions to the guidelines.
As for rigid packaging, the MFI of PE closures used on PE containers has been introduced. In addition, thermoplastic elastomers were classified as fully compatible with recycling for both HDPE and PP streams and the importance of label removability in HDPE rigid packaging has been equally underlined.
New testing campaigns are already underway and Recyclass says that these will further complement the recommendations found in the RecyClass' design for recycling guidelines.
