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 sorting solutions, Steinert is well-positioned to assist recycling companies in their efforts to recover recyclable waste.

Modern sorting technology from Steinert can be tailored to separate and sort plastic scrap according to various parameters, ensuring the input material quality necessary for, as an example, efficient chemical recycling processes.

Key advantages of Steinert’s sorting solutions include:

• Advanced technology: Steinert’s near-infrared 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 differences in material composition, enhancing the sorting process and the quality and purity of the recovered plastic fractions.
  This is an important component of the chemical recycling process. Moreover, Steinert continuously invests in research and development to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, providing state-of-the-art solutions to customers.
  
• 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 programmes improve accuracy and efficiency.
  
• Steinert’s sorting systems contribute to greater efficiency in the recycling process by minimising contamination with unwanted 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 studies 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 recycling 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 chemical recycling and Steinert partners with all sides to ensure a comprehensive approach.