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Test Results

The European PET Bottle Platform, whose mission is to determine the effect of new PET bottles and additives on the quality and the sustainability of the recovered PET flake for recycling, has assessed the impact of several innovations on the PET recycling stream. These assessments are based upon tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol.

Applicants must demonstrate that materials and/or components used in PET bottles can be recycled safely and economically, using existing recycling technologies and processes, by eliminating or significantly reducing materials that may impede recycling without affecting the yield or the quality of the recycled PET.

To date EPBP has considered more than 30 applications.  Many are ongoing, but there are 13 so far that have been positively assessed by the EPBP technical expert’s panel. More test results will be posted on this page as they become available.

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  • Technical Opinions

    EPBP has issued several technical opinions on new packaging solutions that have been positively assessed by the EPBP technical expert’s panel. Innovations that have been positively assessed should not cause any problems during recycling, assuming that the set conditions are met.

    IMPORTANT:
    Please read the full article to view the specific conditions and limitations of the EPBP endorsements.

    • Dongil Chemical Envilabel multilayer shrink film Dongil Chemical Envilabel multilayer shrink film

      August 2024. The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EBPB) was requested to evaluate the effect of Dongil Chemical Envilabel multilayer shrink film label material on the quality of recycled PET. The film is based on multilayer PP and PS structure The Dongil Chemical Envilabel multilayer shrink film is designed to be fully removable from PET flakes during the PET recycling process. This EPBP opinion is valid only where non-bleeding inks are used in conjunction with Dongil Chemical Envilabel multilayer shrink film label material. Data supplied from tests carried out conforming to the EPBP testing protocols demonstrated Envilabel shrink film flakes separation from the PET flakes during the recycling process. For more information and the related conditions, please, see the attached endorsement letter

    • SK Chemicals resins: ECOTRIA® variants SK Chemicals resins: ECOTRIA® variants

      May 2024.The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) was requested to assess the effect of the resins below n the quality of recycled PET. • ECOTRIA® R200 • ECOTRIA® Claro 100-CR50, • ECOTRIA® Claro 200-CR50 • ECOTRIA® Claro 100-CR70, • ECOTRIA® Claro 200-CR70 • ECOTRIA® R100, • ECOTRIA® R101, • ECOTRIA® R102, • ECOTRIA® Claro 100 • ECOTRIA® Claro 200 Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market knowledge in 2022, the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) concludes ECOTRIA® and ECOTRIA® Claro resins mentioned above will not have a negative impact on current European PET Recycling and have awarded an endorsement for a market penetration up to 3%. For more information, please, see the attached endorsement letter

    • Penn Color UV blocker 66UV11964 Penn Color UV blocker 66UV11964

      October 2023. The RecyClass PET Technical Committee and EPBP Technical Committee were requested to carry out an assessment of the technology ‘66UV11964’ by Penn Color to verify its impact on the quality of recycled PET bottles. The technology is a UV stabiliser blended in a clear transparent PET bottle. The amount of UV stabiliser represents about 0.6 wt% of the total weight of the packaging. The PET bottle tested was not decorated nor printed. The bottle presented a light blue tint. According to the results that were obtained from the laboratory test performed by Plastic Forming Enterprises (PFE), carried out as per the Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PET bottles[1], the UV additive technology '66UV11964' is considered to have limited compatibility with the recycling of clear transparent PET bottles. For more detailed information, please, see the attached letter

    • EMS-Grivory ‘Grivory HB 7187 natural EMS-Grivory ‘Grivory HB 7187 natural

      May 2023 - The RecyClass PET Technical Committee (TC) and EPBP Technical Committee were requested to carry out an assessment of the technology ‘Grivory HB 7187 natural’ by EMS-Grivory to verify its impact on the quality of recycled PET bottles. The technology is a polyamide MXD6/MXDI barrier layer present as internal layer in a PET bottle, covering the entire base of the preform/bottle until the support ledge of the neck. The polyamide layer represents about 5wt% of the total weight of the packaging. The PET multilayer bottle tested was not decorated or printed. According to the results that were obtained from the laboratory test performed by Plastic Technologies Inc. (PTI), carried out as per the Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for PET bottles1, the ‘Grivory HB 7187 natural’ technology is considered to be fully compatible with transparent coloured PET bottle recycling. Please, see the attached endorsement letter

    • MCC - RecycLABEL® Floatable SSL Gravure 40951 MCC - RecycLABEL® Floatable SSL Gravure 40951

      Aplii 2023 -- Following the partnership established in 2022 between European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) and RecyClass, the first joint approval was issued to MultiColor Corporation (MCC) technology ‘RecycLABEL® Floatable SSL Gravure 40951’. The tested technologies are printed shrink sleeves and the analysis consisted of evaluating the effects of inks and the shrinkage on the PET recycling process. The use of shrink sleeves eliminates. Please, see the attached endorsement letter

    • MCC - ‘RecycLABEL® Floatable SSL Flexo F779752’ MCC - ‘RecycLABEL® Floatable SSL Flexo F779752’

      Aplii 2023 -- Following the partnership established in 2022 between European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) and RecyClass, the first joint approval was issued to MultiColor Corporation (MCC) technology– ‘RecycLABEL® Floatable SSL Flexo F779752’. The tested technologies are printed shrink sleeves and the analysis consisted of evaluating the effects of inks and the shrinkage on the PET recycling process. The use of shrink sleeves eliminates. Please, see the attached endorsement letter

    • Sherwin Williams - Valor AB300 Sherwin Williams - Valor AB300

      March 2023 -- The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) was requested to assess the effect of: Valor AB300 from Sherwin Williams on the quality of recycled PET. The application refers to Polyamide and catalyst blend, specially designed for easy delamination of the multilayer core during the recycling process. The material is used for multilayer bottles. Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market knowledge in 2023, the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) concludes that: Valor AB300 from Sherwin Williams will not have a negative impact on current European PET Recycling and have awarded an endorsement for a market penetration up to 5%. The 5% refers to weight of the bottles with Valor AB300 and Valor AB300 addition to the bottles up to 3% per wt. For more information, please, see the attached endorsement letter

    • INTERIM ENDORSEMENT - Perforated, tear off full body sleeves for Household and Personal Care PET bottle INTERIM ENDORSEMENT - Perforated, tear off full body sleeves for Household and Personal Care PET bottle

      February 2023 -- One of the options to overcome the growing issues with full-body sleeves on PET bottles is the use of sleeve perforations, allowing consumers to remove the sleeve from the bottle before placing both the sleeve and the bottle into collection bins or bags. Clear instructions for consumers will encourage them to remove the sleeve thus facilitating accurate identification and sorting of the sleeveless PET bottle. This requires a combination of actions by both industry and by consumers. Based on the above considerations, EBPB has renewed the endorsement to full body sleeves used on personal and household care bottles for a period of two more years, provided that certain conditions are met. Thgis period will be used to assess the packaging industry commitment in adopting the solution, coaching the consumers and to measure consumers’ engagement in removing the sleeves. Find more by reading the full EPBP endorsement.

    • Eastman Cristal One Series and Eastman Eastar EB364 EPBP endorsement Eastman Cristal One Series and Eastman Eastar EB364 EPBP endorsement

      October 2022, The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) was requested to assess the effect of: Eastman Cristal™ One, Eastman CristalTM One E, Eastman Eastar™ EB364 and Cristal™ One Pro, Copolyester resins on the quality of recycled PET. The application refers to resins that are modified copolyesters with a lower crystallisation rate than standard PET and used in applications for which standard PET shows high crystallisation. The difference between the assessed resins relates to the level of intrinsic viscosity. Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market knowledge in 2022, the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) concludes that Eastman CristalTM One E, CristalTM One, Eastman Eastar™ EB364 and CristalTM One Pro resins will not have a negative impact on current European PET Recycling and have awarded an endorsement for a market penetration up to 5%. Find more by reading the full EPBP endorsement.

    • Avient -- Smart Heat RHC Avient -- Smart Heat RHC

      September 2022 -- The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) was requested to assess the effect of the material below in the quality of recycled PET: Avient SmartHeat RHC reheat and process aid for PET bottles Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market knowledge in 2022, the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) concludes that Avient SmartHeat RHC reheat and process aid for PET bottles will not have a negative impact on current European PET Recycling and have awarded an endorsement for a market penetration for up to 20% with bottles (by weight) containing Avient SmartHeat RHC up to 0.03%LDR. More details can be found in the attached file

    • CCL Label Meerane CCL Label Meerane

      May 22,The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EBPB) was requested to evaluate the effect of CCL Label’s EcoStream® SP clear and white label material on the quality of recycled PET. The film is based on a duplex laminate of LD-polyolefin films with optional tactile relief varnish in conjunction with an acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive. The CCL Label EcoStream® SP label options and adhesive are designed to be fully removable from PET flakes during the PET recycle process. This EPBP opinion is valid only where non-bleeding inks are used1 in conjunction with CCL Label EcoStream® SP clear and white label. Data supplied from tests carried out conforming to the EPBP testing protocol2 demonstrated minimal impact on the color and properties of the resulting rPET. Based on the assessment’s outcome EPBP awards an endorsement to CCL Label EcoStream® SP clear and white label. More details can be found in the attached file

    • Avantium Renewable Polymers PEF as barrier material in PET bottles Avantium Renewable Polymers PEF as barrier material in PET bottles

      April 2022. The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) was requested by Avantium Renewable Polymers BV to conduct an evaluation of the effect of poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate), or PEF, on the PET bottle recycling stream. The EPBP assessment refers to the use of PEF as a barrier (middle) layer in multilayer PET bottles. Testing a 5% concentration of PET/PEF multilayer bottles with 10% PEF content in the middle layer and testing according to the EPBP protocol, demonstrate no negative impact on haze and other properties of the resulting rPET products. The 5% market penetration figure takes local accumulation into account .Based on the assessment’s outcome and considering the variable performance of European sorting and recycling plants, the novelty of this packaging solution and its potential market penetration, EPBP has awarded an interim endorsement to Avantium Renewable Polymers BV PEF polyester resin in a test market for a period, expiring 30 June 2025. For more detailed information, please read the attached document

    • Avery Dennison CleanFlake White and Clear EPBP endorsement Avery Dennison CleanFlake White and Clear EPBP endorsement

      March 2022: The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EBPB) was requested to evaluate the effect of Avery Dennison CleanFlake™ clear and white polypropylene label material on the quality of recycled PET. The two label material options are:  CleanFlake Clear -S7000ER/S7400ER  CleanFlake White -S7000ER/S7400ER The Avery Dennison CleanFlake™ label options and adhesive are designed to be fully removable from PET flakes during the PET recycle process. This EPBP opinion is valid only where non-bleeding inks are used1 in conjunction with the Avery Dennison CleanFlake™ labels S7000ER/S7400ER in clear and white. Data supplied from tests carried out conforming to the EPBP testing protocol2 demonstrated minimal impact on the color and properties of the resulting rPET. To find more details for this endorsement, read the attached document

    • Eastman Cristal EN Series EPBP endorsement Eastman Cristal EN Series EPBP endorsement

      November 2021, The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) was requested to assess the effect of: Eastman Cristal™ EN076 and Cristal™ EN067 copolyester resins on the quality of recycled PET. The application refers to resins that are modified copolyester with a lower crystallization rate than standard PET that will be used for those applications for which standard PET shows too high crystallization. The difference between the assessed resins relates to the level of intrinsic viscosity. Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market knowledge in 2021, the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) concludes that Eastman Cristal™ EN076 and Cristal™ EN067 resins will not have a negative impact on current European PET Recycling and awarded endorsement for a market penetration up to 5%. Find more by reading the full EPBP endorsement.

    • Innovia RayoFloat Endorsement Innovia RayoFloat Endorsement

      November 2021. The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EBPB) was requested to assess the effect of Innovia polyolefin film APO50 RayoFloat™ for shrink sleeve label application on the quality of recycled PET. The application refers to low density polyolefin film for shrink sleeve label applications without printing. Innovia’s polyolefin film APO50 RayoFloat™ shrink sleeves are designed to shrink to the bottle without the need for glues. During the recycling process they separate from the bottle after grinding and are removed from the rPET flakes by sink/float separation and elutriation. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated removal of the label during the washing process and no negative impact on the colour and processing performance of the resulting rPET as far as the unprinted film is considered. Find more by reading the full EPBP endorsement.

    • Taghleef Industries - SHAPE360™ TDS film labelling solution Taghleef Industries - SHAPE360™ TDS film labelling solution

      27 July 2021 --- The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) was requested to assess the effect of SHAPE 360 bottle labelling solution from Taghleef Industries on the quality of recycled PET. The SHAPE360™ TDS film labelling solution is based on a heat shrinkable transparent transverse-oriented polyolefin film. Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market’s knowledge in 2021, the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) concludes that Taghleef Industries SHAPE360™ TDS film bottle labelling solution will not have a negative impact on current European PET recycling provided that certain conditions are met. Find out more by reading the full EPBP endorsement.

    • APTAR Simplicycle closure with floatable TPE dispensing valve APTAR Simplicycle closure with floatable TPE dispensing valve

      23 July 2021 --- The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) was requested to assess the effect of APTAR Simplicycle closure – an HDPE closure that includes a floatable TPE dispensing valve. Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market knowledge in 2021, EPBP concludes that Aptar’s Simplicycle closure will not have a negative impact on current European PET Recycling and awarded endorsement to Simplicycle closure. Find out more by reading the full EPBP endorsement.

    • P&G’s PET Dip-tube Aerosol Container with Polymer Valve, base cup free P&G’s PET Dip-tube Aerosol Container with Polymer Valve, base cup free

      25 June 2021 -- This P&G application refers to an aerosol container with a PET main body and the ancillary parts (i.e. actuator, valve and dip tube) made with polymers other than PET having density less than 1 g/cm3 in order to allow separation by flotation during the recycling process. The evaluation has been carried out on completely empty, unprinted and unlabelled containers. Lab tests carried out according to the EPBP test protocol have shown high removal efficiency of the non-PET components by flotation and consequently no impact on recycled PET quality. This EPBP opinion is valid only if P&G’s PET Dip-tube Aerosol Container with Polymer Valve is used only under certain conditions. Find out more by reading the full EPBP endorsement.

    • MCC’s RecycLABEL® clear #11581 and RecycLABEL® white #11582 low density pressure sensitive labelling systems (LD-PSL) MCC’s RecycLABEL® clear #11581 and RecycLABEL® white #11582 low density pressure sensitive labelling systems (LD-PSL)

      25 March 2021 --- MCC’s label solutions are based on clear (RecycLABEL® clear #11581) and white (RecycLABEL® white #11582) BOPP films with NaOH sensitive emulsion acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive. The two solutions have been formerly assessed and commercialised as Spear RC Clear #11581 and Spear RC White 11582, respectively. MCC’s low density pressure sensitive labelling system is specifically designed to be fully removable in one piece from the hot washing solution during the PET recycling process: the adhesive is designed to be completely removed together with the label substrate, ensuring no absorption on the clean PET flakes. This EPBP opinion is valid only where non bleeding inks are used in conjunction with MCC’s RecycLABEL® clear #11581 and RecycLABEL® white #11582, and provided it is used only under certain conditions. Find out more by reading the full EPBP endorsement.

    • REPI's REMAP UV 00394 REPI's REMAP UV 00394

      20 January 2021 - The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) was requested by REPI to assess the effect of REMAP UV 00394 - UV radiation barrier enhancement allowing longer shelf life to sensitive products when packaged in clear PET bottles - on the quality of recycled PET. Data supplied from test carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol on bottle samples provided by REPI demonstrated that processing conditions and bottle performances are not affected by levels of REMAP UV 00394 up to a maximum of 0.2%. Higher additive loadings might result in unacceptable discoloration of recycled PET. Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market’s knowledge in 2020, the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) concludes that the use of REMAP UV 00394 UV barrier additive will not have a negative impact on current European PET recycling provided that certain conditions are met. Find out more by reading the full EPBP endorsement.

    • Nestlé Waters - Polyxylylene adipamide (Nylon-MXD6 or MXD6) Nestlé Waters - Polyxylylene adipamide (Nylon-MXD6 or MXD6)

      26 November 2020 --- The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) was requested by Nestlé Waters to assess the effect of polyxylylene adipamide (a semi-aromatic polyamide also known as Nylon-MXD6 or MXD6) on the quality of recycled PET. The assessment refers to the use of polyxylylene adipamide based polymers as constituents of the middle layer in a three-layer multilayer PET bottle; it is used to enhance the barrier properties of PET. Data supplied from test carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol on bottle samples provided by Nestlé Waters demonstrated that processing conditions and bottle performances are not affected by levels of polyxylylene adipamide up to 6%. Residual colour is the only limiting factor. Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market’s knowledge in 2020, the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) concludes that the use of polyxylylene adipamide will not have a negative impact on current European PET recycling provided that certain conditions are met. Find out more by reading the full EPBP endorsement.

    • CCL Label GmbH - EcoFloat™ shrink sleeves CCL Label GmbH - EcoFloat™ shrink sleeves

      25 June 2020 --- CCL Label GmbH polyolefin film EcoFloat™ shrink sleeves are designed to shrink to the bottle without the need for glues. During the recycling process they separate from the bottle after grinding and are removed from the rPET flakes by sink/float separation and elutriation. Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market’s knowledge in 2020, the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) concludes that CCL polyolefin film EcoFloat™ will not have a negative impact on current European PET recycling provided that certain conditions are met. Find out more by reading the full EPBP endorsement.

    • NON ENDORSEMENT - PET washable labels and sleeves NON ENDORSEMENT - PET washable labels and sleeves

      10 June 2020 - The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EBPB) was requested to evaluate the effect on the quality of recycled PET of PET labels and sleeves with washable inks. The evaluation was of a clear PET label substrate printed with a caustic-washable ink. During the recycling process, the printing should be removed by hot caustic washing and friction, whilst the clear PET substrate is recovered, and hence increases the recycling yield. After extensive evaluation of the data supplied, the Technical Committee of the EPBP decided not to endorse this label solution for PET bottles, coming to the conclusion that the recycling value chain is negatively impacted by this packaging solution. Find out more by reading the full EPBP non-endorsement.

    • NON ENDORSEMENT - PETG Components NON ENDORSEMENT - PETG Components

      18 May 2020 - The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EBPB) was requested to evaluate the effect of the use of Glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETG) on the quality of recycled PET. After extensive evaluation of the data available, the Technical Committee of the EPBP decided not to endorse this solution. The use of PETG bottles, as well as any component part made with PETG polymer, such as labels, sleeves, seals, closures, in combination with PET bottles is actively discouraged as PETG will have a negative impact on current European PET recycling. Find out more by reading the full EPBP non-endorsement.

    • NON ENDORSEMENT - Fluorescent PET bottles NON ENDORSEMENT - Fluorescent PET bottles

      18 May 2020 - The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EBPB) was requested to evaluate the effect of fluorescent bottles on the quality of recycled PET. After extensive evaluation of the data supplied, the Technical Committee of the EPBP decided not to endorse the use of fluorescent dyes/pigments in PET bottles for the several reasons. Find out more by reading the full EPBP non-endorsement.

    • KHS Corpoplast GmbH - Plasma SiOx coating technology (branded as FreshSafe-PET®) KHS Corpoplast GmbH - Plasma SiOx coating technology (branded as FreshSafe-PET®)

      6 March 2020 --- The Technical Committee of the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) was requested to assess the effects of KHS Corpoplast GmbH transparent Plasma SiOx coating technology (branded as FreshSafe-PET®) for the processes Plasmax Standard and Plasmax+ on the quality of recycled PET. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the testing protocol demonstrated no negative impact on bottle-to-bottle application. Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market’s knowledge in 2020, the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) concludes that KHS Corpoplast GmbH FreshSafe-PET® Plasmax Standard and Plasmax+ will not have a negative impact on current European PET recycling provided the concentration of Plasma SiOx coated bottles is limited to a max to 15% of the whole EU PET bottle market. This market penetration rate takes local accumulation effects into consideration.

    • CCL Label GmbH - Ecostream® and EcoStream® LV CCL Label GmbH - Ecostream® and EcoStream® LV

      3 February 2020 --- CCL Label GmbH low density pressure sensitive labelling system Ecostream® and EcoStream® LV are based on a duplex laminate of LD-polyolefin films with optional tactile relief varnish in conjunction with an acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive. EcoStream® and EcoStream® LV pressure sensitive labelling systems are specifically designed to be fully removable in one piece from the PET flakes by the hot washing solution during the PET recycling process and the adhesive is designed to be completely removed together with the label substrate, leaving no residuals on the clean PET flakes. Based on the EPBP assessment’s outcome and current market’s knowledge in 2020, the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) concludes that CCL Label’s EcoStream® and EcoStream® LV pressure sensitive labelling systems will not have a negative impact on current European PET recycling provided that certain conditions are met.

    • KHS GmbH - Nature Multipack™ solution KHS GmbH - Nature Multipack™ solution

      21 January 2020 --- KHS Nature Multipack™ is a secondary packaging solution using specifically designed equipment and glue dots to stick together PET bottles in multiple packs based on less packaging. Data supplied from tests carried out conforming to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated minimal impact on the colour and properties of the resulting rPET. Glue dots sticking bottles together are designed to be removed during friction washing and to separate from PET flakes by flotation. Ageing tests, simulating exposure to elements, have confirmed that glue dots retain their floating capability. Based on the assessment’s outcome – but taking into account the variable performance of European recyclers, the novelty of this packaging solution and its potential market penetration, – the EPBP concludes that the Nature Multipack™ PET bottle secondary packaging process, in combination with the specific glue developed and supplied by KHS GmbH, will not have a negative impact on current European PET recycling, provided that certain conditions are met.

    • Klöckner Pentaplast - Pentalabel Polyolefin film ClearFloat shrink sleeve Klöckner Pentaplast - Pentalabel Polyolefin film ClearFloat shrink sleeve

      21 March 2019 --- Klöckner Pentaplast - Pentalabel Polyolefin film ClearFloat shrink sleeves are designed to shrink to the bottle without the need for glues. During the recycling process they separate from the bottle after grinding and are removed from the rPET flakes by sink/float separation and elutriation. The application refers to low density polyolefin film for shrink sleeve label applications without printing. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated removal of the label during the washing process and no negative impact on the colour and processing performance of the resulting rPET as far as the unprinted film is considered, and provided certain conditions are met.

    • INTERIM ENDORSEMENT - Perforated, tear off full body sleeves for personal and household care PET bottles INTERIM ENDORSEMENT - Perforated, tear off full body sleeves for personal and household care PET bottles

      23 January 2019 --- One of the options to overcome the growing issues with full-body sleeves on PET bottles is the use of sleeve perforations, allowing consumers to remove the sleeve from the bottle before placing both the sleeve and the bottle into collection bins or bags. Clear instructions for consumers will encourage them to remove the sleeve thus facilitating accurate identification and sorting of the sleeveless PET bottle. This requires a combination of actions by both industry and by consumers. Based on the above considerations, EBPB has awarded a temporary endorsement to full body sleeves used on personal and household care bottles for a period of three years, provided that certain conditions are met. The three-year period will be used to assess the packaging industry commitment in adopting the solution and to measure consumer engagement in removing the sleeves.

    • UPM Raflatac - Low-density self-adhesive PP Clear Top Coated / RW65C label UPM Raflatac - Low-density self-adhesive PP Clear Top Coated / RW65C label

      24 October 2018 --- UPM Raflatac’s low-density self-adhesive labelling systems PP Clear Top Coated / RW65C are specifically designed to be fully removable in one piece from the PET flakes by the hot washing solution during the PET recycling process: the adhesive is designed to be completely removed together with the label substrate, leaving no residuals on the clean PET flakes. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated no negative impact on the colour and processing performance of the resulting rPET, provided that certain conditions are met.

    • INTERIM APPROVAL - Direct Print Powered by KHS machine using specifically developed Direct Print inks INTERIM APPROVAL - Direct Print Powered by KHS machine using specifically developed Direct Print inks

      31 August 2017 --- Direct Print Powered by KHS machine is designed to run using specifically developed Direct Print inks - supplied via NMP Systems GmbH - that are low migration, UV-curable and compliant with all European guidelines. Data supplied from recycling tests carried out conforming to the EPBP testing protocol and migration tests according to Fraunhofer IVV method 1.334 demonstrated minimal impact on the colour and properties of the resulting rPET. Based on the assessment’s outcome - but taking into account the variable performance of European recyclers, the novelty of this packaging solution and its potential market penetration -, EPBP has awarded interim approval to Direct Print Powered by KHS machine in combination with Direct Print inks supplied via NMP Systems GmbH in a test market (up to two industrial machines) and for an interim period, expiring 31 August 2019, provided that certain conditions are met.

    • INTERIM APPROVAL - Synvina’s Poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) or PEF INTERIM APPROVAL - Synvina’s Poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) or PEF

      15 March 2017 --- Synvina’s PEF (or Poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) is a polyester resin chemically similar to PET but comprising Furandicarboxylic Acid (FDCA) instead of Terephthalic Acid (PTA) in the polyester backbone. Due to its possible use as an alternative material for bottles, PEF requires a thorough assessment of the impact on PET recycling activities. Data supplied from tests carried out demonstrates that 1° PEF can be distinguished and sorted by commercial NIR sorting equipment and 2° there is no negative impact on haze, colour and other properties of the resulting rPET products at least up to 2% of PEF. Based on the assessment’s outcome - but taking into account the variable performance of European sorting and recycling plants, the novelty of this packaging solution and its potential market penetration - EPBP has awarded interim approval to Synvina’s PEF polyester resin in a test market (up to 50kt) and for an interim period, expiring 30 June 2020, provided that certain conditions are met.

    • Fuji Seal Europe – Alpha FA low density polyolefin film Fuji Seal Europe – Alpha FA low density polyolefin film

      22 June 2016 --- Fuji Seal Europe – Alpha FA low density polyolefin shrink sleeves are designed to shrink to the bottle without the need for glues. During the recycling process they separate from the bottle after grinding and are removed from the recycled PET flakes by sink/float separation and elutriation. The application refers to low density polyolefin film for shrink sleeve label applications without printing. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated that the removal of the label during the washing process had no negative impact on the colour and processing performance of the resulting recycled PET, given the specific film and ink combination tested, and provided certain conditions are met.

    • CCL Label GmbH - Low density pressure sensitive labelling systems (LD-PSL+) CCL Label GmbH - Low density pressure sensitive labelling systems (LD-PSL+)

      10 November 2015 --- CCL Label GmbH’s low density pressure sensitive labelling systems (LD-PSL+) are based on a duplex laminate of LD-polyolefin films with tactile relief varnish in conjunction with an acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive. They are specifically designed to be fully removable in one piece from the PET flakes by the hot washing solution during the PET recycling process. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated no negative impact on the colour and processing performance of the resulting rPET, provided certain conditions are met.

    • Fuji Seal Europe – Alpha LW polyolefin shrink sleeve Fuji Seal Europe – Alpha LW polyolefin shrink sleeve

      30 October 2015 --- Fuji Seal Europe’s Alpha LW is a low density polyolefin film for shrink sleeve label application designed to shrink to the bottle without the need for glues. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated that the removal of the label during the washing process had no negative impact on the colour and processing performance of the resulting recycled PET, provided it is used only under certain conditions.

    • Sleever International ‐ LDPET® low density PET shrink sleeve label Sleever International ‐ LDPET® low density PET shrink sleeve label

      22 June 2015 --- Sleever International's LDPET® low density PET film for shrink sleeve label application are designed to shrink to the bottle without the need for glues. During the recycling process they separate from the bottle after grinding and are removed from the recycled PET flakes by sink/float separation and elutriation. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated that the removal of the label during the washing process had no negative impact on the colour and processing performance of the resulting recycled PET, given the specific film and ink combination tested, and provided certain conditions are met.

    • Klöckner Pentaplast - Pentalabel Polyolefin film LF-TC8CF03 Klöckner Pentaplast - Pentalabel Polyolefin film LF-TC8CF03

      3 June 2015 --- Klöckner Pentaplast’s Pentalabel is a low density polyolefin film for shrink sleeve application. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated removal of the label during the washing process and no negative impact on the colour and processing performance of the resulting rPET as far as the unprinted film is considered, and provided it is used only under certain conditions.

    • M&G Polimeri Italia S.p.A. - Poliprotect PB M&G Polimeri Italia S.p.A. - Poliprotect PB

      11 July 2014 --- M&G Polimeri Italia S.p.A.’s Poliprotect PB is a barrier material. Data supplied from test carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated that processing conditions and bottle performances are not affect by high levels of Poliprotect PB, , if certain conditions are met. Residual colour is the only limiting factor.

    • CCL Label GmbH - Low density pressure sensitive labelling system (LD-PSL) CCL Label GmbH - Low density pressure sensitive labelling system (LD-PSL)

      14 February 2014 --- CCL Label GmbH’s low density pressure sensitive labelling system (LD-PSL) contains a transparent as well as an opaque label solution. Both label solutions are based on a duplex laminate of LD-polyolefin films in conjunction with an acrylic based pressure sensitive adhesive. Data supplied from tests carried out in accordance to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated no negative impact on the colour and properties of the resulting rPET, if certain conditions are met.

    • CCL Label GmbH’s Triple S, Super Stretch Sleeve CCL Label GmbH’s Triple S, Super Stretch Sleeve

      20 March 2013 --- CCL Label GmbH’s Triple S, Super Stretch Sleeve, is a printed high stretch polyethylene based sleeve for the decoration of contoured PET bottles. Data supplied from tests carried out conforming to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated no negative impact on current European PET recycling if three specific conditions are met.

    • Bio-based PET Bio-based PET

      25 June 2012 --- EPBP has evaluated the effect of PET grades manufactured using monomers derived from renewable resources on the PET recycling stream. Several processes have been announced that allow the production of monomers that can be used to manufacture PET and “PET-like” polyesters starting from renewable resources like food and food scraps (corn, sugar cane, ...), biomasses and waste (wood chips, switchgrass, stalks, algae, compostable city waste, ...). Some of those processes have already reached or are close to reach industrial scale. The replacement of the traditional monomers with the ones derived from renewable resources can be either total or partial.

    • Kureha Corporation Kuredux Polyglycolic Acid resin (PGA) Kureha Corporation Kuredux Polyglycolic Acid resin (PGA)

      27 January 2012 --- Kureha Corporation Kuredux Polyglycolic Acid resin (PGA) is a passive barrier intended for use as a middle layer in a multilayer structure at a maximum level of 5% to provide product protection and extend shelf life of beverages and foods packaged in PET. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated no negative impact on current European PET recycling if Kuredux Polyglycolic Acid, at a maximum concentration of 5% and as the middle layer of a 3-layer structure with no tie layers, is used in levels of up to 10% of the PET bottle market.

    • ColorMatrix Ultimate 390-1 (280-1085-1) – UV blocker technology ColorMatrix Ultimate 390-1 (280-1085-1) – UV blocker technology

      16 March 2011 --- ColorMatrix Ultimate 390-1 (280-1085-1) - UV blocker technology - is intended for use at a maximum concentration of 0.15% in the manufacture of PET to provide protection against light degradation for UV sensitive food and beverages. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated no negative impact on current European PET recycling if the ColorMatrix UV Blocker Ultimate 390-1 (280-1085-1) at a maximum concentration of 0.15% is used in levels of up to 20% of the PET bottle market.

    • ColorMatrix HyGuard HyCat-1 (280-10120-1) - oxygen scavenger ColorMatrix HyGuard HyCat-1 (280-10120-1) - oxygen scavenger

      16 March 2011 --- ColorMatrix HyGuard HyCat-1 (280-10120-1) - oxygen scavenger - is intended for use at a maximum concentration of 0.10% to provide product protection and extend shelf life of oxygen sensitive beverages and foods packaged in PET. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated no negative impact on current European PET recycling if ColorMatrix HyGuard HyCat-1 (280-10120-1) at a maximum concentration of 0.10% is used in levels of up to 10% of the PET bottle market.

    • ColorMatrix Ultimate 390 CC1 (280-1034-5) – UV blocker technology ColorMatrix Ultimate 390 CC1 (280-1034-5) – UV blocker technology

      16 March 2011 --- ColorMatrix Ultimate 390 CC1 (280-1034-5) - UV blocker technology - is intended for use at a maximum concentration of 0.15% in the manufacture of PET to provide protection against light degradation for UV sensitive food and beverages. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated no negative impact on current European PET recycling if the ColorMatrix UV Blocker Ultimate 390 CC1 (280-1034-5) at a maximum concentration of 0.15% is used in levels of up to 12% of the PET bottle market.

    • Sidel's ActisTM Lite - coating technology Sidel's ActisTM Lite - coating technology

      17 January 2011 --- Sidel's ActisTM Lite consists of a very thin carbon layer (average thickness of 60 nm), deposited in a plasma form, that completely adheres to the inner surface of the PET bottle wall. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated that processing conditions and bottle performances are not affected by high levels of Sidel ActisTM Lite coating. Residual colour is the only limiting factor above 15% market share.

    • Mitsubishi Gas Chemical - MXD6 co-injected bottles Mitsubishi Gas Chemical - MXD6 co-injected bottles

      20 November 2010 --- Mitsubishi Gas Chemical MXD6 co-injected bottles consist of a thin layer of MXD6 as the middle layer of a 3-layer construction with no adhesive tie layers, with a content of approximately 5% MXD6. Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated that processing conditions and bottle performances are not affected by high levels of Mitsubishi Gas Chemical co-injected bottles. Residual colour is the only limiting factor, although the MXD6 middle layer can be partially removed (by air elutriation) from the inner and outer PET layer during the PET washing process.

    • APTAR Food+Beverage – closures containing a swimming silicone valve APTAR Food+Beverage – closures containing a swimming silicone valve

      12 November 2010 --- Data supplied from tests carried out according to the EPBP testing protocol demonstrated that APTAR silicone valves floated on the washing water, and were thus removed during the sink-float step. The resultant recycled PET flakes did not contain any silicone. EPBP concludes that APTAR Food+Beverage swimming silicone valve will have no negative impact on current European PET recycling.