from practice
Sorting Tests – Packaging from the Perspective of Sortability and Recyclability
Sorting tests are a critical step in ensuring the actual recyclability of packaging, moving beyond mere theoretical “recyclable” design.
Packaging Sorting Tests
We assist companies in verifying the sortability of packaging materials through specialized sorting tests based on the internationally recognized RecyClass methodology. We provide a comprehensive service, from sample preparation to the interpretation of results:
- Sample Preparation and Homogenization: Preparation of test samples and their homogenization with commonly sorted waste streams.
- Compression Simulation: Simulation of pressing – either using a real collection vehicle or through alternative compression simulations.
- Operational Packaging Testing: Testing of packaging during active operation – on individual technological units or across the entire sorting line.
- Protocol Development and Evaluation: Processing of reports, evaluation of results, and expert consultation with the client.
✅ Unique Opportunity: Test packaging under real operational conditions – gaining a complex overview of sorting behavior and recycling potential.
Regarding Packaging Sortability and Recycling
Sorting tests serve to evaluate how effectively packaging can be identified and separated within a real-world recycling process. Their primary benefits include:
✅ Sensor-Based Assessment: Evaluating whether packaging is correctly recognized and sorted on automated lines using NIR (Near-Infrared) technology or other sensors.
✅ Stream Integrity: Ensuring correct allocation into the appropriate recycling stream to prevent contamination and enhance the quality of secondary raw materials.
✅ R&D Support: Supporting the development of recyclable packaging – results help optimize packaging design for superior sortability.
✅ Process Efficiency: Increasing the efficiency of recycling processes by ensuring a higher share of truly recyclable packaging materials.
✅ Circular Economy Alignment: Direct support for circular economy principles – returning more materials back into production rather than to landfills or incineration.
of Composition and Output Material Quality
We offer in-depth analyses of sorted waste and output secondary raw materials, including verification of compliance with current legislation and upcoming requirements (e.g., PPWR – Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation):
Verification of Sorting Line Settings: Assessing performance from the perspective of sortability and output quality.
Quality Assessment of Secondary Raw Materials: Including suitability for food-contact applications.
Utilization of Proprietary Portable NIR Technology: For immediate identification of polymers and additives directly in the field.
Technological
We are an active part of the professional community – we develop technological concepts for waste sorting and processing and collaborate closely with research organizations on:
- Design and Testing of New Approaches: For efficient and precise sorting of packaging waste.
- Technology Development for High-Quality Recycling: Advancing methods for superior material recovery.
Tailor-made
Every client has unique needs – therefore, we offer proprietary methodologies and testing scenarios adapted to specific technologies or sorting lines:
- Efficiency and Sorting Quality Testing: Measuring the performance and purity of the sorting process.
- Customization of Methods and Parameters: Aligning testing protocols with specific client requirements.
Expert Recommendations: The output always consists of clear, professionally-backed recommendations for optimization.