K 2025: ExxonMobil to present PCR tech as recycled packaging demand grows

ExxonMobil will spotlight its polymer solutions and latest technological developments at K 2025 in Düsseldorf, Germany, October 8–15. We speak to the company about the benefits of the materials to be showcased at the world’s largest plastic and rubber tradeshow. 

The global energy giant says it will bring product samples and film rolls to the show, including its monomaterial PE solutions designed for recyclability, solutions incorporating post-consumer recycled (PCR) content, and the Exxtend technology for advanced recycling.

The company will also discuss and show its solutions for rotomolding, yogurt cups, hydraulic oils, greases, and specialty lubricants. 

“As demand for increased recycled content in packaging grows, PCR materials present challenges due to degradation in properties that can affect performance and processability,” a spokesperson for ExxonMobil tells Packaging Insights. 

“ExxonMobil’s Signature Polymers can help enhance final film performance, improving mechanical properties to offset variations in PCR quality and maintain performance comparable to virgin polymers.”

High-performance PCR solutions

ExxonMobil’s spokesperson tells us that the use of PCR content is an “emerging trend” in Europe’s commercial and industrial packaging.

ExxonMobil’s Signature Polymers from PCR content are well-suited for incorporating into various applications.“With the official publication of the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, the mandatory incorporation of PCR will soon become a legal requirement. In addition to regulatory drivers, consumer and brand preferences are influencing real-world developments in PCR-based films.”

Mechanical recyclers and waste managers provide PCR content, which is incorporated with performance-boosting ExxonMobil Signature Polymers to compensate for fluctuations in PCR content quality, the spokesperson expands.

“Collaboration across the value chain is essential, particularly in understanding the source, composition, and production process of PCR materials.”

ExxonMobil’s Signature Polymers from PCR content are well-suited for incorporating into various applications, the spokesperson continues. “These specialized grades offer potential benefits such as flowability, processability, tear propagation resistance, consistency, homogenization, high density, and holding force.”

ExxonMobil says that fine-tuning properties can mitigate some of the challenges associated with PCR incorporation. 

“Polymer grades enable PCR to be processed directly on the extrusion line, simplifying production compared to compounded materials and providing greater flexibility in control and dosing.”

“With the right selection of premium PCR and ExxonMobil Signature Polymers, converters can achieve performance levels comparable to virgin films while optimizing film structure to suit their specific processing needs.”

The high-performance solutions incorporating PCR content from ExxonMobil that will showcase at K 2025 includes: cast stretch film from Erema, block bottom valve bags from Selene, compression packaging from Optima, high tenacity stretch film from W&H, stretch hood films from Reifenhauser, high tenacity hand wrap stretch cast film from Colines, and silage covers from RaniPlast.

Solutions for the packaging industry

At K 2025, ExxonMobil plans to meet with industry experts and observe solutions from industries such as packaging, as well as agriculture, consumer products, industrial, healthcare, and automotive.

With ExxonMobil Signature Polymers, converters can achieve performance levels comparable to virgin films.The company says it will highlight solutions that it created in collaboration with machine manufacturers, converters, and brand owners.

The monomaterial PE solutions it will present are said to be recyclable, as well as suitable for downgauging. 

For example, the company will exhibit cereal pouches from Colines, freezer pouches made from machine direction orientation PE for W&H, silo bags for Armando Alvarez, pet food bags for Bandera, and vacuum skin cheese packaging for Alpine.

ExxonMobil will showcase its advanced range of Mobil hydraulic oils, greases, and specialty lubricants targeting the needs of the plastics and polymer industry.

Its Exxtend technology for advanced recycling will be presented through samples, such as wrappers, food trays, bags, and pouches, which incorporate ExxonMobil’s certified circular polymers.