The polymer industry is working vigorously to close gaps in the recycling economy and develop innovative recycling solutions. Sustainable action is essential for the future of our industry. We have therefore launched an interdisciplinary research project together with our sister company REHAU Window Solutions and the French PVC manufacturer and recycler Kem One. Our objective is to extract heavy metal residues – particularly lead – from PVC and return them to the material cycle.
In the context of this project, we are combining knowledge from different areas of the polymer industry: REHAU Windows Solutions has in-depth expertise in PVC converting and is providing the necessary window frames made from PVC that are no longer used. These window frames undergo a combination of mechanical and chemical processes at the recycling expert Kem One in Saint-Fons, France. Meraxis acts as a link between the converters and recyclers. We primarily contribute our experience in identifying and securing material sources and in handling of complex logistics processes.
Orchestrated circular economy
A functioning circular economy requires not only effective recycling processes, but also optimal networking between recyclers and plastics converters. As an interface, we at Meraxis enable that this collaboration runs smoothly. We ensure that recyclers receive the required source material to recycle. Then, we supply converters with the recovered, high-quality recycled materials.
«As a distributor, we know exactly how to secure sources for no-longer-used PVC products. We can collect and provide them efficiently. At the same time, we know the requirements of converters of recycled materials. With this technical expertise, we can help recyclers to produce recycled materials that will find a buyer,» says Richard Baudouin, Purchasing Raw Materials & Sustainability Specialist at Meraxis.
Successful project launch: Pilot phase underway
The first trials at the Kem One plant were successful. As a result, we have expanded the project to a pilot scale. The chemical and process engineers are now concentrating on preparing the processes for industrial use. This is scheduled for 2030. The result should not only be a high-quality, lead-free PVC recycled material that can be processed into new window profiles based on recycled material. The extracted lead should also flow back into material-specific recycling streams.
Lead compounds can be found particularly in older PVC products from the construction industry. They increase the stability and durability of window profiles, but also of pipes, hoses, and cables. Our research project reduces lead in PVC recycled materials and thus contributes to protecting nature and health. The socio-political relevance of this undertaking is reflected both in current EU-wide legislation and in the public's increased sensitivity to environmental impacts.
Would you like to learn more about this topic? Contact our expert Richard Baudouin via LinkedIn.
