Kraton’s CirKular+ C2000 & C3000 resins approved by RecyClass
09 Mar 2022

Results of an independent laboratory testing demonstrate that the resins ‘CirKular+ C2000’ & ‘C3000’ developed by Kraton Polymers are fully compatible with the rigid HDPE and PP recycling streams.

‘CirKular+ C2000’ & ‘C3000’ technologies act as compatibilizers or impact modifiers within polyolefin matrixes. Both resins are Styrenic Block Copolymers (SBC) based on poly(ethylene-co-butylene) and polybutadiene respectively. The CirKular+ Performance Enhancement Series allow to increase the content of post-consumer recycled plastics and improves the recyclate’s impact strength. The tested technologies were blended with virgin HDPE or PP resins while representing up to 5% of the total weight of the material.

RecyClass endorsed the recyclability tests carried out by Plastic Technologies, Inc. (PTI) according to The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) Critical Guidance for both HDPE and PP Rigid Containers[1]. In addition to this, the production of blow-moulded bottles was performed as required by the RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for HDPE Containers[2]. Those tests showed that ‘CirKular+ C2000 & C3000’   conforms to the European rigid HDPE and PP recycling streams when the set conditions[3] are fulfilled. These stipulate, among others, that the amount of ‘CirKular+ C2000 & C3000’ can be up to 5% compared to the total weight of the packaging. Additionally, any attachment or decorative technology applied to the packaging should be in line with RecyClass’ recommendations.

Recycled plastics generated from the recycling process of ‘CirKular+ C2000’ & ‘C3000’ can be used in high-value applications, with up to 25% concentration. The compatibility of these innovative technologies with recycling is yet another step on the way to the establishment of a genuine circular economy for plastic packaging.

 

[1] APR Critical Guidance Protocol for HDPE and PP Rigid Containers

[2] RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocols

[3] For the full list of the conditions go to – RecyClass Approvals: Kraton ‘CirKular+ C2000’ & ‘CirKular+ C3000’

 

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 comprehensive cross-industry initiative that works to advance plastic packaging recyclability and to establish a harmonized approach towards recycled content calculation and 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

About Kraton Corporation

Kraton Corporation (NYSE: KRA) is a leading global sustainable producer of specialty polymers and high-value biobased products derived from pine wood pulping co-products. Kraton's polymers are used in a wide range of applications, including adhesives, coatings, consumer and personal care products, sealants and lubricants, medical, packaging, automotive, paving and roofing applications. As the largest global provider in the pine chemicals industry, the company's pine-based specialty products are sold into adhesive, road and construction, and tire markets, and it produces and sells a broad range of performance chemicals into markets that include fuel additives, oilfield chemicals, coatings, metalworking fluids and lubricants, inks and mining. Kraton offers its products to a diverse customer base in numerous countries worldwide. Kraton and the Kraton logo are registered trademarks of Kraton Corporation, or its subsidiaries or affiliates, in one or more, but not all countries. 

Media Contact: Mariam Ottun; T: (346) 435-8042

Investor Relations Contact: Gene Shiels; T: (281) 504-4886