Cleaning the path to circularity: How specialized washing unlocks high-quality plastic recycling
To transform industrial plastic waste into a competitive resource, we must first master the art of cleaning it without destroying its core properties. The feasability study, From reject to recycling, shows that while intensive chemical washing effectively removes contaminants and restores flexibility in plastics, it also risks stripping away vital protective additives.
By finding the right balance between cold and chemical washing tailored to each specific waste stream, we can ensure that recycled materials meet the high standards of a fossil-independent industry.
We asked the project leader, Abhijit Venkatesh from RISE, a few questions:
What did you investigate in the project
In this project we investigated the possibility of creating value on reject stream that would usually be going into incineration.
What were the most important results?
There are certain streams that can directed away from incineration if they can be cleaned in a efficient way. However, mixed streams with moisture are harder to recycle via mechanical recycling.
How can the results be used going forward?
The results can set a reference point to segregate streams between mechanical and chemical recycling. The important finding is to realize that some streams cannot be mechanically recycled.
Partners in the project were: RISE, Essity AB, Renova AB, Fortum AB, Polyfuels AB and Svensk Plaståtervinning. On the project page below you can read more and access the final report.
From reject to recycling – a feasibility study
