Indaver, an enterprise in sustainable waste management, and INEOS Styrolution, global leader in styrenics, are set to team up as technology partners in a project funded by the EU LIFE program, the European Union’s funding instrument for the environment and resource efficiency. The project, which is planned for a duration of four years, will demonstrate the production of ABS based on recycled feedstock.
The project, called “LIFE ABSolutely Circular” aims at demonstrating the environmental and economic benefits of using advanced recycling technologies to close the loop of plastic recycling.
An initial key objective of the project is to demonstrate the production of ABS based on recycled feedstock taking advantage of advanced recycling technologies. The project is also planned to demonstrate scaling of the solution from lab scale to demo plant and ultimately to commercialization.
The ABS copolymer is used in a broad range of applications in many industries, including automotive, healthcare, electronics, household, and toys/ sports/ leisure. The material significantly contributes to societal well-being with a well-balanced mix of properties. It is robust, dimensional stable, leightweight, and has an aesthetic surface appearance. It is also compliant with food contact regulations and is easy to process.
Paul De Bruycker, chief executive officer at Indaver, comments, “We are looking forward to develop a demo plant and an upscaling plan to achieve the objectives of this project. We are thrilled to work on a solution that allows us to take advantage of the amazing properties of styrenics while eliminating the impact on the environment and on future generations.”
Dr Alexander Glück, president EMEA at INEOS Styrolution, “We are excited about this project as we believe there is intrinsic value in plastics products after usage. We share the vision with Indaver to turn plastic waste into valuable resources instead of letting it end up in landfills.”
Over time, more information on the project and related results will be published on the project website www.absolutely-circular.com.