Recycled Plastics in Packaging

Avient introduces next-generation solutions to facilitate the use of recycled plastics in packaging applications. Avient Corporation has introduced a groundbreaking PCR Color Prediction Service for polyolefins and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resins, along with its new polyolefin antioxidants Cesa™ Nox A4R Additives for Recycling. These sustainability solutions are specifically designed to enhance the experience of working with post-consumer recycled (PCR) content for materials used in packaging. Both align with eight ways in which Avient supports customers in becoming more sustainable. Norbert Merklein, Vice President of Avient and General Manager of Colors, Additives and Inks for the Europe, Middle East and Africa regions, stated: "Avient is fully committed to increasing opportunities to expand the use of recycled polymers by addressing barriers that arise during the recycling process or when customers want to incorporate PCR content into existing or new applications." "Our CesaNox A4R Recycling Additives, together with the PCR Color Prediction Service, help overcome these barriers. They represent two new ways for Avient to contribute to the circular economy and enable customers to achieve their sustainability goals."

Calculating Color Range

The PCR Color Prediction Service helps brand owners understand which colors can be achieved based on the amount of PCR used. It employs advanced technology to determine in advance through color matching whether colors are suitable in a new application containing PCR content. This first-of-its-kind internally developed solution for the plastics industry also calculates how much PCR content can be added to an existing application without affecting the signature color. Using specialized software, Avient experts measure resin properties to determine the color range that can be successfully reproduced in a specific PCR-based material. This premium service simplifies and accelerates the selection of preferred colors for polymers with PCR content, avoiding time-consuming trial and error. The service accelerates the evaluation process, providing greater flexibility for customers who may need to switch from one PCR content source to another; this is particularly important given current supply variability.

Enhancing the Stability of PCR Content

Avient's new CesaNox A4R Recycling Additives are based on a specialized formulation that protects post-consumer polyolefins against oxidation, which can lead to defects such as black specks, gels and color degradation. The antioxidant can be added to PCR content early in the recycling process or incorporated into unprocessed resin to prepare for future recycling. CesaNox A4R Additives for Recycling offer excellent value. They use a reduction rate that is half of what is required for standard antioxidants. Polyolefin applications stabilized with this additive include packaging, automotive parts and consumer goods. SOURCE