The findings of an independent laboratory testing of ‘VO+ LLDPE’ technology show that it has minor recyclability issues and, therefore, it is suitable for recycling in a polyethylene (PE) film stream. This innovative structure is a blend of Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) and ‘VO+’ polymeric additives.
VO+ technology engineers a nano-voided structure into polymers to minimize the material used in a package by decreasing the polymer’s density. This technology, based on polymeric additives and orientation processes, delivers reduced density, barrier function, enhanced mechanical properties, and high opacity (without using titanium dioxide).
According to the results of the laboratory which were carried out as per the RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PE films, ‘VO+ LLDPE’ technology conforms to the current European PE film recycling stream provided it is used under specific conditions. These include, among others, the requirement on the maximum density of the printed film which cannot exceed 1 g/m3, as well as the compatibility of the printing technology with the RecyClass design for recycling guidelines. Another precondition is the presumption that ‘VO+ LLDPE’ does not exceed 10% of the whole European LDPE flexible film market share. In case this threshold is exceeded, further testing will be required, and the current approval will be subject to a review.
The film samples obtained from the conversion process of the recycled material generated by extruding ‘VO+ LLDPE’ show minimal differences to the film without the innovation, with a minor visual appearance discrepancy, as no haze increase neither high level of gels was detected. Therefore, the recycled material was attested as relevant for high-value applications.
Consequently, within RecyClass grading system (on the scale from A to F, which resembles the EU energy efficiency scale), the ‘VO+ LLDPE’ technology can be ranked maximally as class B1. This class implies that a package has ‘some minor recyclability issues’ and therefore proves to advance quality recycling.
The results will be incorporated in the RecyClass ‘Design for Recycling Guidelines’ as well as the RecyClass online tool which are one of the components of the guidance for the recyclability evaluation. They contribute as well to the constructive developments within the design for recycling discussion on PE films and, more importantly, working towards improving recycling rates of this stream.
Source: Plastic recyclers
Packaging 360 is a comprehensive knowledge sharing ecosystem for the Indian packaging industry. Our services include an online content platform to deliver news, insights and case studies; organising conferences seminars and customised training; Providing Bespoke Project Consulting, Market Research and Intelligence.
