FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jim Bell
Phone: (215) 419-5293
- October 06, 2009

In its continuing contribution to sustainability, Arkema has developed Rcycle™, an innovative global service package based on recycling Rilsan® and Pebax® technical polymers, in particular those of renewable origin. Rcycle™ covers the collection and sorting of waste, and its reuse over a range of recycled polymers.

Rcycle™, a recycling program covering a product’s lifecycle

Rcycle™ encompasses the lifecycle of Rilsan® and Pebax® polymers by providing for the collection, sorting and reuse of production scraps as well as end-of-life articles through an exclusive global-coverage partnership with the company Agiplast.

The Rcycle™ program targets the Rilsan® and Pebax® polymers used in high added-value applications (e.g. electronics, automotive, and sports equipment) and combines low environmental impact with economic benefits. The Rcycle™ program will include the development of recycled products marketed under the tradenames Rilsan® Rcycle™ and Pebax®  Rcycle™.

Through Rcycle™, Arkema helps companies manage both their waste and recycled technical polymers. Hence Rcycle™ positions Arkema with these companies as an eco-design partner that can take charge of the waste throughout the lifecycle of their applications and help them reuse this material.

Arkema, a partner in its customers’ eco-design approach

Because eco-design is only meaningful when it includes the environmental impact at every phase of a product’s development, Arkema stands out as an excellent partner through  its range of Arkema Renewables bio-sourced polymers, which help reduce both the environmental impact and the use of fossil resources and Arkema’s 60 years of expertise in plant-based chemistry.

Rilsan® PA11: polyamide 11, flexible or rigid, with up to 100% renewable content and CO2 emissions 40% below those of polyamide 12

Pebax® Rnew: a thermoplastic elastomer, with 20 to 95% renewable content
Rilsan® Clear Rnew: a transparent polyamide, with up to 50% renewable content
Rilsan® HT: a high temperature polyamide, with up to 70% renewable content 

The high performance and low density of these polymers extends the lifetime of applications, reduces the weight of applications.  Typically 20% lower density than competitive plastics and one-half to one-eighth the density of aluminum or steel, Rilsan® resins are often used to replace these metals.  In automotive fuel lines, where Rilsan® resins offer light weight and excellent permeation resistance, they reduce consumption and pollution. 

In industrial practices, Arkema is resolutely committed to improving safety and the protection of health and the environment, in particular through the Responsible Care® program.  This global recycling service package further consolidates Arkema’s position as an eco-responsible company meeting the challenges of sustainability.