- LYB's Frankfurt center processes hundreds of kilograms of test material for recycling.
- CosPaTox provides safety guidelines for post-consumer recycled plastics in cosmetics.
- Techniques like GC-MS, ICP-MS, and HPLC ensure recyclates meet safety standards.
- LYB uses mechanical, solvent-based, and chemical recycling for different plastic types.
Investment in Recycling Technologies
LyondellBasell (LYB) is enhancing its mechanical recycling capabilities through significant investments in R&D. At its Frankfurt Innovation Center, LYB is developing advanced sorting, decontamination, and compounding technologies under near-industrial conditions.
Advanced Sorting and Decontamination
The facility processes several hundred kilograms of test material, sorted by plastic type and color, with options for decontamination, extrusion, and degassing. This development aims to produce more consistent and higher-quality end-products.
Trace Analytics for Safety
LYB's in-house analytics team in Frankfurt is advancing trace analysis to ensure the safe use of mechanically recycled materials, particularly for cosmetic packaging. Techniques like Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) are employed to meet stringent safety requirements.
CosPaTox Guidelines
CosPaTox, a European consortium, has developed voluntary safety guidelines for post-consumer recycled plastics in cosmetic and household packaging. These guidelines provide a framework for safety and quality standards, including robust testing methodologies.
Recycling Technologies for Different Plastics
LYB's recycling technologies are tailored to different types of plastic waste. Mechanical recycling is used for rigid plastics like PP and HDPE, solvent-based recycling for flexible plastics like LDPE, and chemical recycling for highly mixed and contaminated waste.
