The heart of the INCREACE project: 5 business cases

The INCREACE project is an exciting and ambitious initiative that aims to develop innovative solutions to improve the plastic recycling value chain. At the heart of the project are five challenging business cases that focus on increasing the share of recycled plastics in new products, particularly in the EEE sector. These cases include food contact applications, medical applications, electrostatic discharge (ESD), UL94 flammability standards, and high-tech plastic components in EEE. In this blog we explain the five different business cases.

1. Food contact applications

The first business case is focused on food contact applications, implemented at the example of Vorwerk’s Thermomix. One of the main challenges of using recycled plastics in food contact applications is ensuring that they meet the strict safety standards required for food packaging and kitchen devices. INCREACE is working to develop new methods to increase the purity of recycled plastics and ensure that they are safe for use in food contact applications.

2. Medical applications

The second business case is focused on plastic recyclates in medical applications manufactured by Philips. Medical devices and equipment require high levels of purity and quality materials, since they need to be proof for direct or indirect skin contact. Such biocompatibility requirements, make it challenging to use recycled plastics of currently commercially available quality. However, with the right technology and recycling processes, recycled plastics can be used in medical applications. Within the INCREACE project experts are joining forces to identify pathways for the safe application of plastic recyclates in medial devices.

3. Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)

The third business case is focused on electrostatic discharge (ESD) of pallets produced by Cabka. ESD refers to an electric current flow between charged objects which can not only result in visible sparks but also cause severe damage to electronic devices. Therefore, during manufacturing and shipping of electronic devices, a ESD protective environment is crucial.. INCREACE is working to develop new solutions based on recycled plastics that can provide ESD protection

4. UL94 flammability standards

The fourth business case is focused on UL94 flammability standards a widely recognized standard for testing the flammability of plastics. By adding flame retarding compounds to plastics, the combustion of the material is inhibited and delayed. This is an important safety measure to prevent or slow down the development of fire in case of an ignition. INCREACE is working together with Skaza to overcome challenges for recycled plastics to comply with flammability standards / develop new methods to increase the flame-retardant properties of recycled plastics to meet the UL94 V0 standard.

5. High-tech plastic components in EEE

The fifth business case is focused on high-tech plastic components in EEE. Electronic devices require high-performance plastics that can withstand extreme temperatures, high pressures, and corrosive environments. INCREACE is working to develop new high-tech plastic components made from recycled plastics that meet the demanding requirements of the EEE sector.

Overall, the INCREACE project is an exciting initiative that has the potential to make a significant impact on the plastic recycling value chain, specifically for application in added value electric and electronic devices. By developing innovative solutions and pushing the boundaries of what is possible with recycled plastics, INCREACE is helping to create a more sustainable and circular economy.