Smart Molding International 1-2024

48 smart_molding international 1/2024 materials LyondellBasell introduces new plastics made from recycled marine maritime gear With the introduction of CirculenRecover PPC TRC 2179N, recycled maritime plastic can now be used for the first time in injection molding. L yondellBasell, a global leader in innovation, is proud to announce its involvement in a ground- breaking value chain collaboration aimed at transforming end-of-life in- dustry from the maritime waste into innovative plastics. This collaboration includes a renowned German OEM and a specialized recycling company with expertise in mechanically recy- cling plastic waste. Traditionally, the automotive industry has only utilized recycled maritime plastic in the form of fibers for new vehicle components. However, with the introduction of Circulen Recover PPC TRC 2179N, this recyclate can now be used for the first time in injection molding. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for the application of recycled plastics. As part of this collaboration, end-of-life fishing nets are collected and meticulously sorted by type. They are then processed to create a high-quality plastic recyclate. LyondellBasell takes this recyclate and expertly compounds it with virgin compounds to produce the grade Circulen Recover PPC TRC 2179N. CirculenRecover polymers Recovering plastic waste from the environment (both pre and post- consumer waste), Circulen Recover polymers are made from a mechanical recycling process to produce recycled resins. By processing the plastic waste through the shortest recycling loop, a lower carbon footprint can be achieved. Historically, recycled polymers have been associated with low-end applications and were often noted to be less durable or lower in quality. Circulen Recover polymers offer a consistent, high-quality product containing recycled material that can be used in a number of applications, such as consumer rigid packaging and caps and closures. The injection-molded components made from Circulen Recover PPC TRC 2179N are trim parts used in visible areas for the interior of various car models. This development, which will be used in big-scale production, allows for enhanced sustainability and environmental responsibility in the automotive industry. LyondellBasell is proud to be at the forefront of this transformative collaboration, which showcases the Company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. "Who would have thought that maritime gear can be one of the solutions to create more sustainable ca rs ? ” s ay s Mi c hae l Büd i nge r, Business Development Manager at LyondellBasell. “As part of the European Green Deal, the European Commission is currently investigating measures to increase the circularity of vehicles, one of them being the use of up to 25% of post-consumer plastic waste. Maritime gear will support OEMs in reaching this goal.” LyondellBasell is committed to meeting the evolving needs of its customers. The company remains focused on developing tailored solutions for its customers, meeting their specific demands and requirements. LyondellBasell www.lyondellbasell.com • The new recyclate is available in a wide range of colors • Circulen Recover is carefully sorted and cleaned to ensure con- sistent quality feedstock • LyondellBasell continually invests in recylate quality. Picture source: LyondellBasell