RecyClass’ Landmark Testing Campaign Confirms Recyclability of PP Compounds Used in Automotive Bumpers

RecyClass has successfully completed its first Automotive & Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) testing campaign, confirming that impact-modified polypropylene (PP) compounds used in demanding application such as automotive bumpers are compatible with mechanical recycling streams in Europe. The findings provide important evidence for the development of closed-loop recycling systems for plastics in automotive & EEE applications, advancing circularity in these complex sectors.

Conducted under the RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for Automotive & EEE Resins, the milestone campaign assessed nine industrial formulations featuring seven elastomer technologies. The results demonstrate that the tested impact-modified PP compounds¹ can be effectively recovered and reprocessed without compromising the overall quality of the resulting recyclate, expanding recycling opportunities for high-performance plastics.

While the evaluation focused on automotive bumper applications, the tested materials can also be used in other automotive & EEE applications. The findings will be integrated into the Design for Recycling Guidelines for vehicles, refrigeration equipment, and small electrical & electronic appliances. The guidelines provide manufacturers with practical recommendations for designing recyclable products.

As the first testing campaign specific to the automotive & EEE sector, this initiative marks an important step in strengthening the technical knowledge needed to advance plastics circularity in demanding applications. RecyClass’ continuous development of scientific recyclability assessments will play a key role in helping the industry anticipate the requirements of European legislation, including the End-of-Life Vehicles Regulation.

RecyClass welcomes industry collaboration in future testing campaigns to further generate scientific knowledge on recycling in the automotive & EEE streams. By testing new innovations and technologies, stakeholders can take an active role in shaping robust methodologies and identifying the most effective routes towards plastics circularity.

^{1 Read the full RecyClass Technical Review for detailed information on the tested formulations and the associated thresholds evaluated as fully compatible.}

_{About RecyClass}

_{RecyClass is a non-profit, cross-industry initiative advancing recyclability, bringing transparency to the origin of plastic waste, and establishing a harmonised approach toward recycled plastic calculation & traceability in Europe. RecyClass develops Recyclability Evaluation Protocols and scientific testing methods for innovative plastic materials, which serve as the base for the Design for Recycling Guidelines and the RecyClass Online Tool. RecyClass established Recyclability Certifications for plastic packaging, Sorting Process, Recycling Process, and Recycled Plastics Traceability Certifications for plastic products.}

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