Polypropylene ‘Pouch5’ by Gualapack tested by RecyClass
Results of an independent laboratory testing demonstrated that the PP-based product ‘Pouch5’ developed by Gualapack is compatible with the rigid PP recycling stream.
The laminated pouch is designed with a rigid PP spout and PP cap, which represent more than half of the packaging by weight, participating to achieve more than 95% PP in the whole final packaging. The white-coloured pouch has been tested direct printed. Barrier properties are ensured by the incorporation of less than 1 wt% EVOH in the structure.
Sorting trials have demonstrated that due to its rigid components, ‘Pouch5’ is sorted as rigid packaging and will therefore be recycled in the rigid PP recycling stream. With the sorting behaviour assessed and as decided by the RecyClass Technical Committee, the Institut für Kunststofftechnologie und -recycling (IKTR) carried the recyclability tests according to the RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PP containers[1].
Those tests showed that ‘Pouch5’ poses no negative impacts to the rigid PP recycling stream when the set conditions[2] are fulfilled. These stipulate, among others, that the rigid components of the pouch are prevalent enough to ensure the sortability in the PP rigid stream. Additionally, any decorative technology applied to the pouch must as well in line with RecyClass’ recommendations.
Recycled plastics generated from the recycling of ‘Pouch5’ can be used in high-value applications, with up to 25% concentration. The results of this analysis are a clear indication for the industry on how fundamental the evaluation of the sorting behaviour of plastic packaging is and the design cannot overlook this aspect.
[1] RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PP containers
[2] For the full list of the conditions go to – RecyClass Approval: Gualapack ‘Pouch5’
About Gualapack
Gualapack is the world leader in pre-made spouted pouches and a global player in the flexible packaging industry, manufacturing laminates, caps and pouches for baby food, snacks, pharmaceutical products and a wide range of other applications. The company is fully committed to sustainability, which in the past few years has been its greatest driver for growth and innovation. Headquartered in Italy, Gualapack has a global presence in 9 countries worldwide.
About RecyClass
RecyClass is a comprehensive cross-industry initiative that works to advance plastic packaging recyclability and to establish a harmonized approach towards recycled content calculation and traceability in Europe. Activities within RecyClass include the development of Recyclability Evaluation Protocols and scientific testing of innovative materials which serve as the base for the Design for Recycling guidelines and the free online tool. RecyClass offers Recyclability Certifications and Recycled Content Traceability Certification for plastic packaging.
Contact : Alice.Wallon@plasticsrecyclers.eu, www.recyclass.eu
RecyClass Recyclability Approvals
RecyClass issues two types of Recyclability Approvals – Technology Approvals and Product Approvals. These are issued upon conducted testing in accordance with one of the established Recyclability Evaluation Protocols. Testing results are incorporated in the RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines and the Online Tool. The full list of approved Technologies and Products can be found on the RecyClass website.
