Removal of BioPlastics from mixed polymer waste flows for chemical recycling

"BioCycle has been created in order to solve a present, but growing problem with the introduction of bio-based-plastics (both biodegradable and bio-derived-plastics). While they are marketed as ""compostable"", this can only be done in specialist facilities, and to do so, the bio-based-plastic must be separated from the conventional plastic. There is currently no technical solution to this. With the bio-based-plastic market expected to increase by 50 fold over the next 12 years, it is crucial for the industry to find a solution to this problem, to prevent a large majority of waste plastic packaging ending up in landfill.

BioCycle is a disruptive approach to this problem. Working with the anaerobic digesting (AD) industry, of which lead partner EcoiDeam (EI) are a management provider and the route to market for this project, we will explore the feasibility of a high shear, enzyme wash system, designed to remove the bio-based-plastics from the conventional plastics which are a waste product of the AD process. EI will work with Impact Solutions (IS), a leading plastic testing and research & development firm, who have a track record of successfully developing and commercialising recycling technologies, and who have a growing portfolio of inventive technologies. Both partners already have a working relationship, and are ideally placed to develop this technology."