October 19, 2023
(press release)
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Polyolefin based pump was tested and approved as fully compatible with the high-density polyolefin (HDPE) recycling stream in Europe. This packaging technology is a pump system, typically used in household packaging applications to store lotion or soap. The main innovative aspect of this technology is that the pump is made fully of plastics – including both the spring and the ball. These are an improvement compared to conventionally used metal springs or glass balls which cause issues during the recycling process. Independent testing was carried out by Plastics Forming Enterprises (PFE), in accordance with the RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for HDPE containers[1]. Results show that Apackaging Group’s technology poses no negative impacts on the state-of-the-art plastics recycling processes, as long as the pump does not exceed 26 % of the total weight of the packaging[2]. The recycled plastic generated after the recycling process was successfully tested in high-value application such as HDPE bottles up to 50 % concentration. The recyclability of “Infinity Pump” technology was also assessed for the PET stream, for which a Letter of Compatibility was issued[3]. This attestation certifies that the semi-finished PET packaging using “Infinity Pump” is graded as class B on the recyclability scale. The approval of this innovation serves as an example that functionality and recyclability of plastic packaging can go together. Its important findings contribute to the ongoing discussions around the proposal for the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. [1] RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for HDPE Containers [2] The full list of conditions can be found in the Recyclability Approval Letter: Apackaging Group “Infinity Pump” [3] Letter of Compatibility evaluates qualitatively the recyclability of semi-finished packaging. Overview of all issued Letters of Compatibility can be found here. RecyClass Recyclability Approvals RecyClass issues two types of Recyclability Approvals – Technology Approvals and Product Approvals. These are issued upon conducted testing in accordance with one of the established Recyclability Evaluation Protocols. Testing results are incorporated in the RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines and the Online Tool. The full list of approved Technologies and Products can be found on the RecyClass website. About RecyClass RecyClass is a non-profit, cross-industry initiative advancing recyclability, bringing transparency to the origin of plastic waste and establishing a harmonized approach toward recycled plastic calculation & traceability in Europe. RecyClass develops Recyclability Evaluation Protocols and scientific testing methods for innovative plastic packaging materials which serve as the base for the Design for Recycling Guidelines and the RecyClass Online Tool. RecyClass established Recyclability Certifications for plastic packaging, Recycling Process Certification and Recycled Plastics Traceability Certification for plastic products.
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