Following independent, scientific testing, Dow (NYSE: DOW) RecycleReady Technology is the first compatibilizer to obtain a Recyclability Approval. This packaging technology was found to be fully compatible with the European flexible polyethylene (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 colored 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.
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.
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