Ineos and PolyClear Group launch 60% recycled LDPE pellets for shrink filming

12 Oct 2022 --- Ineos is partnering with UK-based packaging player The PolyClear Group to deliver novel solutions to shrink film applications. The duo has released a new polymer that is a ready-to-use hybrid low-density PE (LDPE) compound containing 60% post-consumer recyclate (PCR) supplied in a pellet form. It is part of a range of polymers (Recycl-IN) from Ineos, which incorporate PCR instead of virgin polymers. 

Ineos says it has applied its product and technical expertise from across its European operations to create the Recycl-IN grades for packaging and pallet wrapping and that the design has the same characteristics as virgin plastics. 

These new polymers support a more sustainable and circular approach, says the collaboration, directing plastic waste from landfill back into valuable polymer products.

“The film properties we have witnessed so far are unlike those achieved with ordinary recyclates. They offer our customers the confidence they need with their packaging requirements,” says the Polyclear Group’s managing director, Andy Mehta. 

Polyclear is based in Southampton, UK.“We see Ineos as a trusted industrial partner, being at the forefront of innovation in developing hybrids and in their wholehearted commitment to environmental improvements.”

Ineos advancements 
Ineos says it is committed to delivering “a sustainable future and to achieving Net Zero in its operations” by bringing solutions to the market that enable others in the supply chain to lower its carbon footprint.

The Recycl-IN portfolio of hybrid grades of polymers is part of the company’s efforts to help its customers to achieve similar emission reductions. 

“We are committed to working closely with our customers and delivering innovative technical solutions that bring to market polymers containing increasing proportions of recycled plastic whilst maintaining the quality that they have come to expect from Ineos products,” remarks Graham MacLennan, Ineos Polymer Business Manager. 

This year, Ineos Styrolution developed a food-grade packaging film branded K-Resin DK11, which it claims is the material of choice for controlled atmosphere packaging (CAP) film applications. The film found favor among Chinese banana farmers who had been looking for an environmentally suitable packaging solution that enabled the controlled ripening of bananas during transportation from Yunnan to other coastal regions in the country.

Ineos under fire 
Recently, Ineos came under fire from NGOs and environmental activists for its plan to build a massive ethane cracker in the Port of Antwerp. Branded Project One, the €3 billion (US$3.07 billion) site, is intended to boost European chemical manufacturing and make the continent competitive with the US and China.

However, a group of 13 nonprofit organizations launched legal action, claiming the project would greatly increase local pollution and damage the region’s human and environmental health. The site is set to be built next to a protected nature area.

Edited by Louis Gore-Langton