Melt-phase decolorization and low-dose toning for gray cast removal in rpet/rhdpe
Re-Du Company offers an innovative solution for improving the clarity of recycled PET and HDPE by using melt-phase decontamination and low-dose color correction. This approach removes chromophores and corrects color drift without compromising recycled content.
Overview
Re-Du Company introduces a novel approach to enhance the lightness and clarity of recycled PET (rPET) and HDPE (rHDPE). The method combines melt-phase decontamination with low-dose toning to address gray cast issues caused by contaminants and degradation products. This solution effectively removes chromophores, ink, adhesive residues, and oxidized oligomers using a regenerable adsorption and filtration medium. An optional toning masterbatch is used to correct any residual color drift, ensuring the recycled material maintains its quality and appearance.
Technical specifications
- Melt-phase decontamination: Utilizes a carbon/engineered adsorbent as an in-line melt filter or side-stream bed to eliminate color bodies.
- Low-dose color correction: A small toning/brightener masterbatch can be added to stabilize and correct color.
- Compatibility: Designed to integrate seamlessly with standard extrusion and compounding processes.
- Validation: The process is tested with rPET/rHDPE grades for Lab*/ΔE and haze targets, ensuring no compromise in mechanical properties.
- Evaluation: Quick assessment of improvements through standard color and haze measurements, maintaining intrinsic viscosity (IV) and melt flow index (MFI).
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, this technology has been validated at the lab scale and is ready for pilot runs and further scale-up assessments. Potential partners can expect a quick integration and evaluation phase, with the possibility for pilot testing at their facilities or ours.
About Re-Du Company
RE-DU is a recycling technology company that has developed a patented process for the chemical deconstruction of mixed plastic waste. By breaking down diverse plastic types—such as PET, PC, PU, and PA—into monomers, the company enables the transformation of previously difficult-to-recycle materials into commercially valuable chemical products. This technology eliminates the need for costly sorting of mixed waste streams and offers an efficient, cost-effective alternative to traditional plastic management systems, which often rely on outdated processes that fail to address the majority of global plastic waste.
By providing a scalable solution for chemical recycling, RE-DU aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimize the environmental impact of plastic pollution in landfills. The company serves as a partner for industries seeking sustainable chemical feedstocks and is contributing to the development of a circular economy. Supported by initiatives like the Innovation Crossroads Award and research collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, RE-DU is positioned to help transition toward a net-zero carbon society by proving that mixed plastic waste can be successfully converted into high-quality, reusable resources.
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