RecycleReady Technology from Dow received a RecyClass Recyclability Approval
25 Apr 2023
Following independent, scientific testing, Dow’s RecycleReady Technology is the first compatibilizer to obtain a Recyclability Approval. This packaging technology was found to be fully compatible with the European flexible polyethlene (PE) recycling stream.
RecycleReady is a PE coextruded film containing EVOH. In addition, the film contains the RETAIN™ 3000 compatibilizer, which presents the added benefit of limiting the yellowing effects linked to EVOH degradation.
Evaluation of this technology was carried out in accordance with the RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocols and conducted by AIMPLAS. The results show that when the amount of EVOH is limited to 4.75% and the amount of compatibilizer to 2.25%, this technology is fully compatible with both the natural and coloured flexible PE recycling technologies1.
Further assessment shows that the recycled material containing up to 25% of film with RecycleReady technology can be used in high-quality applications such as PE blown films.
This Approval points to the benefits that the use of compatibilizers brings to the industry as it boosts the recyclability of plastic packaging compared to classic tie layers, which only achieve limited compatibility.
With this newly generated know-how, the plastic industry can continue accelerating the transition toward a circular plastic future.
1 The full list of applicable conditions can be found in the Recyclability Approval Letter: Dow RecycleReady Technology
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.
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Contact:Jean-Emile.Potaufeux@plasticsrecyclers.eu, www.recyclass.eu
About Dow
Dow (NYSE: DOW) combines global breadth; asset integration and scale; focused innovation and materials science expertise; leading business positions; and environmental, social and governance leadership to achieve profitable growth and help deliver a sustainable future. The Company's ambition is to become the most innovative, customer centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company in the world. Dow's portfolio of plastics, industrial intermediates, coatings and silicones businesses delivers a broad range of differentiated, science-based products and solutions for its customers in high-growth market segments, such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer applications. Dow operates manufacturing sites in 31 countries and employs approximately 37,800 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $57 billion in 2022. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. For more information, please visit www.dow.com or follow @DowNewsroom on Twitter.
Contact: Jaoued Belhidaoui, Senior Communications Manager (belhidaoui@dow.com)
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