How to improve the quality of recycled plastic: technologies and innovations
The growing demand for recycled plastics, driven by environmental regulations and ecological awareness, imposes increasingly high quality standards. To meet these demands, it is essential to focus on advanced technologies and process innovations that can improve the technical and visual characteristics of the recycled material.
1. Accurate sorting and separation of materials
- The use of automated sorting systems (optical, infrared, X-ray) allows polymers to be identified and separated with high precision.
- Separation of materials by colour, density and type improves the purity of the recyclate and increases its commercial value.
2. Washing and decontamination
- The use of highly efficient washing equipment removes organic contaminants, labels and industrial residues.
- Deep decontamination technologies also enable the reuse of plastics in the food industry (especially for PET).
3. Refining and Compounding
- The compounding process allows recycled plastic to be mixed with additives, mineral fillers or virgin plastic to obtain a product with superior mechanical properties.
- Specific additives can improve:
o Mechanical strength
o Thermal stability
o Colouring and transparency
4. Quality control and traceability
- Systems with PLC, sensors and automation allow real-time monitoring of production parameters.
- Integration with traceability software ensures compliance with standards and transparency to customers and certifiers.
5. Refurbished and innovative machinery
- Even dated plants, if overhauled and upgraded with modern technology, can produce high-quality material.
- The addition of automation and remote control systems makes it possible to optimise processes, improve efficiency and reduce waste.
6. Collaboration with research and certification centres
- Working with certification bodies and specialised laboratories helps develop new quality standards.
- Certifications such as ISO 9001 and RecyClass increase confidence in the finished product.
The quality of recycled plastics can now equal, and in some cases exceed, that of virgin plastics thanks to advanced technology, machinery innovation and strict controls. Our company supports the industry with tailor-made recycling plants, overhaul services and consultancy, ensuring high performance while respecting the environment.
