Today, plastic recycling is crucial for obtaining Secondary Raw Materials (SRMs), but distinguishing between pure recycled plastic and blends is essential.
Pure plastic (e.g., homogeneous PET) ensures quality and versatility, whereas blends can compromise mechanical properties and limit reuse. Advanced technologies, such as SPECTRO sensors, optimize sorting, improving recycling efficiency and reducing waste.
The industry relies on advanced technologies, and Sensor Instruments offers a comprehensive range of sensor systems for quality control of recycled materials, ensuring precision and reliability both in the lab and on the production line.
The relevant technologies include:
Color Analysis
Accurate color measurement of recycled plastic granules, with sensors designed using geometries that minimize direct reflections.
Plastic Type Identification (NIR)
Three-range NIR technology to distinguish polymers such as PET and polyolefins, even in transparent materials, based on reflectance in the three NIR bands. The sensors are designed for integration into production systems, mounted on hoppers, granule transport pipes, or other setups.
Marker Detection (TAGTEC)
Identification of plastics marked with phosphorescent or fluorescent additives, even at low concentrations, supporting traceability in the recycling chain. These are also used for critical applications, such as distinguishing between food-grade and non-food-grade packaging.
The use of these technologies provides numerous benefits, both in production and in resource management:
-
Quality: Real-time monitoring to prevent production defects.
-
Compliance: Fulfillment of EU regulations on recycling and food safety.
-
Sustainability: Increased use of recycled materials, reducing reliance on virgin materials and lowering emissions.
