Aptar’s SimpliCycle TPE-S valve technology approved by RecyClass
06 Sep 2022
The latest testing approves Aptar’s SimpliCycle TPE-S valve as fully compatible with the European rigid polypropylene (PP) recycling stream. The recycling compatibility has been positively assessed via the RecyClass Evaluation Protocol for PP containers[1] .
The technology is a thermoplastic elastomer valve made of Styrenic Block Copolymers (TPE-S or TPS), paired with a PP-based cap. This closure system is commonly used in food, beverage and other applications. Based on the study conducted, the valve itself represents less than 1% compared to the total packaging weight.
The testing was carried out independently by the Institut für Kunststofftechnologie und -recycling (IKTR). According to the laboratory results, SimpliCycle TPE-S valve conforms to the current European PP container natural and coloured recycling streams, provided it is used under specific conditions[2]. The tests demonstrated that plastic generated by the recycling process can be used back in closed-loop applications, such as PP blow-moulded bottles and injection moulded products with up to 50% of this material.
Upon the review by RecyClass Technical Committees, TPE-S valves representing less than 1wt% were also approved as fully compatible within the HDPE rigid plastic stream. Consequently, Aptar’s testing results will be integrated under the ‘fully compatible’ section of the existing RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines[3] and the Online Tool[4]. This is in addition to the approval that Aptar’s SimpliCycle technology received for the PET stream from EPBP[5].
Closures play an important role in the functionality of plastic packaging, and with its innovative technology Aptar points to the significance that each component plays in the overall recyclability of packaging. Solutions like this bring the industry one step closer to the circular plastic future.
[1] RecyClass Evaluation Protocol for PP containers
[2] For the full conditions please read the Technology Approval Letter
[3] RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines
[5] Aptar’s SimpliCycle closure was tested by EPBP; Approval Letter is available 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.
RecyClass – Plastic Future is Circular
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Contact : Jean-Emile.Potaufeux@plasticsrecyclers.eu, www.recyclass.eu
About Aptar
Aptar a global leader in the design and manufacturing of a broad range of drug delivery, consumer product dispensing and active material science solutions and services. Aptar’s innovative solutions and services serve a variety of end markets including pharmaceutical, beauty, personal care, home care, food and beverage. Using insights, proprietary design, engineering and science to create dispensing, dosing and protective technologies for many of the world’s leading brands, Aptar in turn makes a meaningful difference in the lives, looks, health and homes of millions of patients and consumers around the world. Aptar is headquartered in Crystal Lake, Illinois and has 13,000 dedicated employees in 20 countries. For more information, visit www.aptar.com.