Page 25 - Plastics News March 2020
P. 25
FeAtures
Tests Reveal Novel Ways to Improve Recyclability of Difficult-to-
Recycle Plastics
Clare Goldsberr
The new findings indicate that recyclability is improved when EVOH is sandwiched in the packaging structure
with PE-g-MAH tie layers
ovel new findings have emerged from compatibility extrusion at 220oC and use of pellets in the production
Ntests involving the ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) of new HDPE containers with up to 25% recycled content.
barrier in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers The new findings indicate that recyclability is improved
in the recycling process. RecyClass, a cross-industry when EVOH is sandwiched in the packaging structure
initiative to advance with PE-g-MAH tie layers. Laboratory test results show
plastic packaging that the chemistry of these tie layers can enhance the
recyclability within compatibilization of EVOH and HDPE during extrusion
Europe, will use these by avoiding the typical yellowing effect as well as an
findings to update and increase of gels and specks in the pellets. However, this
enhance its Design for corresponds specifically to the PE-g-MAH tie layers and not
Recycling Guidelines to any other arbitrary tie layers. In case another type is
for PE-HD Natural and used, the laboratory tests will have to be repeated, said
Colored Containers. A RecyClass. The 6% EVOH concentration and 3% PE-g-MAH
compatibilizer layer tie layers (where MAH is >0.1%) is, therefore, reported in
was inserted to test the design for recycling guidelines as compatible with the
how an embedded solution could improve recyclability of HDPE recycling stream and having no detrimental effects
a structure usually considered difficult to recycle. The under testing conditions. RecyClass noted, however, that
test was performed on natural, five-layer HDPE containers an EVOH concentration above 1% with any other type of
consisting of 6% EVOH and 3% PE-g-MAH (polyethylene- tie layer is reported as having no compatibility, as further
grafted maleic anhydride) tie layers (by weight), testing will be required.
according to the Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for
HDPE Containers. Apart from pretreatment, tests included (Courtesy: Plastics Today)
Biodegradable Plastics Market to Set Amazing Growth
lobal biodegradable plastics market is expected and concern for the global warming is expected to drive
Gto rise from its initial estimated value of USD 3.15 the market growth. Moreover, the increased demand from
billion in 2018 to an estimated value of USD 9.30 billion by a number of applicable industries for the product is also
2026, registering a CAGR of 14.5% in the forecast period expected to drive the market growth.
of 2019-2026 according to the latest reports by the Data This market report works on all the aspects of market that
Bridge Market Research.Huge data and information of are required to create the finest and top-notch market
Biodegradable Plastics Market report has been collected research report. The report makes use of an excellent
from a multiple trustworthy sources such as journals, research methodology which focuses on market share
websites, white papers, annual reports of the companies, analysis and key trend analysis. It estimates CAGR values
and mergers. This rise in market value can be attributed in percentages which designate the rise or fall occurring
to the rising amount of plastic wastes and concern for in the market for particular product for the specific
the environment and global warming. According to report forecast period. The report includes many of the leading
rising awareness programs and adoption of eco-friendly organizations'- NatureWorks LLC, BASF SE, Total Corbion
plastics is due to the increasing amount of plastic wastes
PLA, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, to name some.
25 March 2020 Plastics News