Coastal litter recovered for new SABIC compound

SABIC has introduced a new product using PET recovered and recycled from waterways and inland areas near coasts. The intention is to reduce the amount of waste plastic reaching the sea.

The material is mechanically recycled and converted into a branded PC/PET compound known as Xenoy, part of its Trucircle range, used in the manufacture of new consumer goods and electronics applications, such as TV remote controls and electronic razors. The new compound has at least 10% recycled PET content.

An internal life cycle analysis by the company indicates that, with a resin grade comprising 20% recycled content, 24 million single-use 0.5 litre PET can be prevented from becoming ocean litter for every 1 000 tonnes of products containing Xenoy. The new material is said to offer reductions in the carbon footprint of up to 7% and energy consumption of up to 11% compared to its virgin grade. SABIC adds it has good impact strength, processability and chemical resistance.

‘Our new recycled ocean-bound material can help to tackle the problem directly as part of our commitment to minimize plastics waste ending up as waste,’ says Sergi Monros, vice president, performance polymers & industry solutions for petrochemicals at SABIC.

‘By creating more sustainable materials and forging new collaborations, we hope to help reshape our industry and our entire value chain, whilst at the same time playing a leading role to help provide guidance for necessary regulation and governance.’ Sabic’s Trucircle portfolio spans design for recyclability, mechanically recycled products, certified circular products from feedstock recycling of used plastic, certified renewables products from bio-based feedstock and closed loop initiatives.