Constantia Flexibles’ PERPETUA ALTA technology approved by RecyClass
03 Oct 2022

Polypropylene (PP) film technology ‘PERPETUA ALTA’ developed by Constantia Flexibles is fully compatible with the flexible polypropylene recycling stream. The technology was tested by an independent laboratory, in accordance with the RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PP films[1].

The ‘PERPETUA ALTA’ is a PP-based multilayer laminate with barrier properties conferred by the presence of both EVOH and metallisation. Given its high barrier properties, this laminate is mainly suitable for pharmaceutical applications such as oral drug delivery.

As part of a comprehensive evaluation, NTCP carried out the assessment of the sorting behaviour of the laminate following the RecyClass Sorting Evaluation Protocol[2]. A slightly printed version of the laminate was used during evaluation to reflect a worst case scenario. Results show that the metallised aspect of the film does not prevent the sorting behaviour of the films, which are correctly sorted within the PP flexible recycling stream as reported in the Approval Letter[3].

Subsequently, the technology was independently analysed by Aimplas according to the RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PP films The laboratory results show, that ‘PERPETUA ALTA’ conforms to the current European coloured, flexible PP recycling stream provided it is used under specific conditions[4], which among others, determine the amount and nature of laminating adhesive, EVOH or inks.

The laboratory testing shows that plastic generated by the recycling process may be used in high-quality applications such as PP cast film with up to 25 wt.% of this technology.

The compatibility of this innovative technology with recycling contributes towards an improved circularity of plastic films used in packaging.

 

[1] RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PP Films

[2] RecyClass Sorting Evaluation Protocol for Plastic Packaging

[3] Full list of conditions available in the Approval Letter

[4] Idem

 

^{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 Constantia Flexibles
Constantia Flexibles is the world’s third-largest producer of flexible packaging. Based on the guiding principle of ‘People, Passion, Packaging’, some 8,750 employees manufacture tailor-made packaging solutions at 38 sites in 16 countries. Many international companies and local market leaders from the consumer and pharma industries choose the sustainable and innovative products. Sustainability is a top priority at Constantia Flexibles: the company was rated Level A by Climate Change Leadership (CDP) in 2021 and Gold by EcoVadis in 2022. www.cflex.com}