Polyamide Films Certified for Recycling in BASF and cyclos-HTP Collaboration

A broad portfolio of PA-containing packaging can now be certified as recycling compatible
Photo: BASF SE

(IN BRIEF) BASF SE, in collaboration with cyclos-HTP GmbH, has conducted studies certifying the recyclability of various polyethylene/polyamide (PE/PA) multilayer films. These investigations included multilayer films containing polyamide 6 (PA6) and ethyl vinyl alcohol (EVOH) copolymer. The studies confirm that coextruded high-barrier films (PE/PA6/EVOH) and laminated PA6/PE films used in household packaging waste are suitable for recycling in the polyethylene film stream. Compatibilizers play a crucial role in achieving this recycling compatibility. The findings are vital for classifying polyamides in packaging and contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing material usage in packaging applications.

(PRESS RELEASE) LUDWIGSHAFEN, 30-Nov-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — BASF SE (ETR: BAS), the world’s largest chemical producer, in collaboration with the independent institute cyclos-HTP GmbH, has successfully conducted extensive studies to certify the recyclability of polyethylene/polyamide (PE/PA) multilayer films. Following their previous studies in 2021 on coextruded PE/PA multilayer films, these recent investigations encompassed multilayer films containing polyamide 6 (PA6) and ethyl vinyl alcohol (EVOH) copolymer. The studies demonstrate that coextruded PE/PA6/EVOH high-barrier films and laminated PA6/PE films in household packaging waste are compatible for recycling in the polyethylene film stream.

Dr. Matthias Zorn, Senior Manager Market Development Polyamides for extrusion applications at BASF, highlighted the significance of these findings, stating, “The results show that PE film waste streams containing PA can be processed without significant adjustments to the recycling process. The certification confirms the standard market practice of PA-containing film waste already being recycled by film manufacturers today.”

The incorporation of compatibilizers is a crucial element in enabling the recycling compatibility of laminated structures that include polyamide components within the polyethylene matrix. In coextruded structures, the existing tie layer, used to bond PA and PE in the film, acts as an effective compatibilizer during the recycling process. Dr. Zorn further explained, “If additional functionalized polyethylene (PE-g-MAH) is also added as a compatibilizer during primary film production, the polyamide is even recognized as a valuable material in the polyethylene recyclate by cyclos-HTP”

A notable aspect of this initiative is the study on adhesive-laminated PE/PA films, conducted in collaboration with SÜDPACK, a leading high-performance film manufacturer. This study demonstrates that films previously considered non-recyclable can be made recycling compatible. A Henkel laminating adhesive was utilized in this project, leading to the certification of a broad portfolio of PA-containing packaging as recycling compatible.

Polyamides offer unique properties that reduce material usage in packaging applications, contributing to a reduction in packaging waste. They also enhance the mechanical, thermal, and processing characteristics of packaging materials. PE/PA/EVOH films are commonly used in high-oxygen barrier packaging for cheese and sausages, while laminated structures are prevalent in printed film packaging in the same sector.

In the previous year, the German minimum standard for assessing the recyclability of packaging subject to system participation acknowledged the recyclability of coextruded PE/PA films. This certification provides a crucial foundation for the fact-based classification of polyamides in packaging. The results are shared with the CEN standardization group, which is developing a “Design for Recycling” guideline at the European level, as well as with the Central Agency Packaging Register, which annually defines the German minimum standard for assessing recyclability.

For further information, please visit the BASF Mechanical Recycling website.

About BASF

Chemistry for a sustainable future – that is what BASF stands for. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. More than 111,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in almost every industry and in almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF achieved global sales of €87.3 billion in 2022. BASF shares are traded on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the USA. Further information at www.basf.com. 

Media contact:

Heike Scheurer
Communications Monomers
+49 621 60-55084
heike.scheurer@basf.com

SOURCE: BASF SE