Syensqo pioneers mechanical recycling for PVDC multilayer food packaging

BELGIUM – Syensqo, a global leader in advanced performance materials and chemical solutions, has successfully completed a breakthrough recycling project that could change the future of food packaging sustainability.

The company has demonstrated that multilayer food packaging structures containing its Ixan polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) can be mechanically recycled within a standard polyethylene (PE)-based waste stream.

The trials, conducted by CSI—an accredited testing and certification organization within the IMQ Group—confirmed that Ixan PVDC-based multilayer films can be efficiently processed into valuable feedstock for secondary applications without the need for stabilizing additives.

“Recyclability is now the foremost requirement in food packaging,” said Federico Baruffi, Global Marketing Manager, Packaging at Syensqo.

“Multilayer films offer excellent barrier properties, playing a vital role in preserving food and reducing waste. However, their complex composition has historically made them incompatible with mechanical recycling, the most common recycling method in use today.

“Our trials have proven otherwise—film structures with Ixan PVDC are fully compatible with mechanical PE recycling systems.”

PVDC is recognized for providing exceptional oxygen and water vapor barriers, making it ideal for high-barrier food packaging.

The tests used PE/EVA/Ixan/EVA/PE multilayer films, commonly employed in meat packaging, and assessed their recyclability against standard flexible packaging waste.

Conducted in accordance with EN 13430—Europe’s benchmark standard for recyclable packaging—the trials showed no critical issues at any stage of the recycling process, including grinding, washing/drying, extrusion, pelletizing, and injection molding, even at elevated temperatures of 220°C.

The results confirm that PVDC-containing multilayer films can be mechanically recycled in an open-loop system alongside PE waste.

The resulting material can be repurposed for durable injection-molded items such as pallets, flower pots, and benches.

This advancement marks a significant milestone in sustainable packaging, aligning with EU initiatives to improve recycling rates across the continent.

By unlocking the recyclability of PVDC multilayer films, Syensqo is opening new possibilities for circular material use in the food packaging industry.

Vartega partnership for fibre recycling

Meanwhile, Syensqo has also partnered with Vartega, a pioneer in carbon fiber recycling technologies, to create an ecosystem to foster the use of post-industrial recycled carbon fiber products in high performance applications.

This partnership will leverage Vartega’s process to convert Syensqo’s dry carbon fiber and prepreg waste from its North American sites, into Vartega’s high-quality carbon fiber EasyFeed Bundles.

This recycled material will be integrated into Syensqo’s carbon fiber reinforced specialty polymers ECHO portfolio, which is renowned for its use in high-performance applications in the automotive industry. Typical examples are structural parts, dampening rings and transmission-related applications.

By enabling circularity in carbon fiber usage, this collaboration underscores the ability to combine recycling with exceptional performance.

It reflects Syensqo’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, demonstrating how advanced materials contribute to a more sustainable future.

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