PVCLOOP - Sustainable PVC recycling in Sweden

Purpose and goal

The purpose of PVCLOOP is to investigate the possibilities to start up PVC recycling in Stenungsund based on VinyLoop technology and try to develop methods for separation of phthalates and heavy metals that could be integrated into the recycling system. Goals for initieringsprojektet: Analys of current situation, identified stakeholders and their needs, legislation important for recycling, identified potential solutions for the separation of phthalates and heavy metals, have built a consortium of step 2 of the project and signed draft agreement. The objectives of Stage 1 are met.

Expected results and effects

Mapped present situation in Scandinavia and internationally, and there is no alternative recycling method comparable with VinyLoop. Mapped stakeholders, needs, interests and legislation. Showing that there is a great need to separate phthalates. New potential solutions have been identified to separate phthalates and heavy metals from PVC with CO2 extraction liquid alt. supercritical CO2. A strong consortium of research partners, technology companies, industry and public authorities have been created to step 2. Funding for a step 2 project is not ready to apply in January

Planned approach and implementation

Existing and new potential solutions with extraction have been identified through literature searching, contacts with researchers and technology companies. 2 workshops and interviews with key players has generated important knowledge of market needs and demands. A visit to VinyLoop Ferrara and communication with the plant manager has generated knowledge of the process, process, and infrastructure needs, costs and market. Research organisations, plastic industriers, industri organisations, recycling companies and authorities have been contacted to the consortium