TECHNOLOGY EXPERT
The many futures of
plastics recycling
Although chemical recycling has
potential, it is important to
acknowledge that the
technology is still in
development. Finding the right
balance with mechanical
recycling remains a crucial
aspect of addressing the global
plastic scrap challenge.
Regardless of how plastic is recovered, clearly
defined quality standards must be met. As a
leader in the field of magnetic and sensor sort-
ing solutions, Steinert is well-positioned to
assist recycling companies in their efforts to
recover recyclable waste. Modern sorting tech-
nology from Steinert can be tailored to sepa-
rate and sort plastic scrap according to various
parameters, ensuring the input material quality
necessary for, as an example, efficient chemi-
cal recycling processes.
KEY ADVANTAGES OF STEINERT’S SORT-
ING SOLUTIONS INCLUDE:
1. Advanced technology: Steinert’s near-infra-
red sorting system UniSort EVO 5.0 utilises a
special hyper spectral imaging (HSI) camera,
allowing for accurate and efficient sorting of
even the most difficult-to-sort plastics. This
advanced technology identifies subtle differ-
ences in material composition, enhancing the
sorting process and the quality and purity of
the recovered plastic fractions. This is an impor-
tant component of the chemical recycling pro-
cess. Moreover, Steinert continuously invests in
research and development to stay at the fore-
front of technological advancements, providing
state-of-the-art solutions to customers.
2. Versatility: Sorting technology from Steinert
can be adapted to diverse tasks for various
plastic types, enabling companies to target
specific plastics that are most suitable for
chemical or mechanical recycling. In this
regard, Steinert evaluates a wide range of
scrap such as polyolefins (PP, PE and PET) to
find out which are the most suitable for which
processes and demands. AI-based sorting pro-
grammes improve accuracy and efficiency.
3. Efficiency: Steinert’s sorting systems contrib-
ute to greater efficiency in the recycling pro-
cess by minimising contamination with unwant-
ed materials such as PVC and maximising the
recovery of valuable materials suitable for
recycling. To achieve this, Steinert operates its
own test centres, where many feasibility stud-
ies have been carried out in the past and are
increasingly being carried out to find out what
else needs to be done and which waste
streams are most suitable to meet the very
high demands of chemical recyclers.
EMBRACING THE POSSIBILITIES
The path towards a more sustainable future for
plastics is still being paved and chemical recy-
cling is one of the many routes that must be
explored. Steinert is committed to supporting
customers in their recycling endeavours. It’s a
balancing act between mechanical and chemi-
cal recycling and Steinert partners with all
sides to ensure a comprehensive approach.
Bales of pre-sorted HDPE plastic, ready
for recycling after sorting.
Close-up of a UniSort PR EVO 5.0 sorting plastics
using HSI near-infrared technology.
A large sorting plant featuring Steinert technology
processing mixed plastic waste.
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