Flexible polyethylene film technology using ‘Toppyl PB 8640M’ and ‘Toppyl PB 8340M’ by LyondellBasell tested by RecyClass
22 Sep 2021
RecyClass tested and granted approval for low-density polyethylene (LDPE) film technology using LyondellBasell’s ‘Toppyl PB 8640M’ and ‘Toppyl PB 8340M’ as well as compounds which contain one of these two polymer grades and falling into the tested structure. The technology [...]
‘Toppyl PB 8640M and PB 8340M’ technology aims to exhibit a cohesive peel mechanism within the film structure with a chemical compound containing Polybutene-1. The tested technology was incorporated in an unprinted three-layers LDPE film while representing 7.5% of the total weight of the film.
The laboratory analysis, of this additivated film, was carried out by an independent laboratory Proplast which carried out the tests as per the RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PE films. The results demonstrate that this technology will have no negative impact on the current European PE flexibles recycling stream under specific conditions. To be fully compatible the film structures incorporating this technology must, among others[1], have a density below 0.97 g/cm3 and where ‘Toppyl PB 8640M and Toppyl PB 8340M’ do not exceed 7.5% of the total weight of the structure.
The laboratory testing shows that plastic generated by the recycling process may be used in high-quality applications such as PE blown film with up to 25% of this material.
The proliferation of new technologies for flexible packaging in line with the design for recycling principles shows a strong commitment of the value chain actors to improve the recyclability of this stream on the way to increasing the overall recycling targets in the EU.
[1] For the full conditions please see: LyondellBasell Technology Approval Letter for ‘Toppyl PB 8640M’
About LyondellBasell
LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) is one of the largest plastics, chemicals and refining companies in the world. Driven by its employees around the globe, LyondellBasell produces materials and products that are key to advancing solutions to modern challenges like enhancing food safety through lightweight and flexible packaging, protecting the purity of water supplies through stronger and more versatile pipes, improving the safety, comfort and fuel efficiency of many of the cars and trucks on the road, and ensuring the safe and effective functionality in electronics and appliances. LyondellBasell sells products into more than 100 countries and is the world's largest producer of polypropylene compounds and the largest licensor of polyolefin technologies. In 2021, LyondellBasell was named to FORTUNE Magazine's list of the "World's Most Admired Companies" for the fourth consecutive year. More information about LyondellBasell can be found at www.lyondellbasell.com.
About RecyClass
RecyClass is a comprehensive cross-industry initiative that works to advance plastic packaging recyclability and to establish a harmonized approach towards recycled content calculation and its traceability in Europe. Activities within RecyClass include the development of Recyclability Evaluation Protocols and scientific testing of innovative materials which serve as the base for the Design for Recycling guidelines and the free online tool. RecyClass offers Recyclability Certifications and Recycled Content Traceability Certification for plastic packaging.
Contact: Alice.Wallon@plasticsrecyclers.eu, www.recyclass.eu
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.