UL validates up to 80% PCR in Kraiburg TPE compounds
UL Solutions has validated post-consumer recycled content of 70% to 80% in Kraiburg TPE's second-generation Universal PCR TPEs. The assessment was conducted in accordance with UL 2809-2, Edition 3.
Kraiburg TPE has received Environmental Claim Validation from UL Solutions for its second-generation Universal PCR TPEs. The validation confirms that the compounds contain between 70% and 80% post-consumer recycled material, depending on the individual variant. The product series is intended to enable brand manufacturers to increase the use of post-consumer recyclates in consumer and industrial applications. According to the company, independent validation provides transparency regarding the share of recycled material and a basis for documenting material properties along the value chain.
"The demand for materials with verifiable proportions of recyclates is constantly increasing. At the same time, brand manufacturers, the retail sector and consumers expect transparent and reliable information about the origin and composition of the materials used. The independent validation of our product series provides an important basis for this," said Magdalena Michl, Product Manager at Kraiburg TPE.
The Environmental Claim Validation verifies the declared proportion of post-consumer recyclates in the materials. It covers the underlying documentation, calculation methods and traceability, providing customers with independent verification of the stated material specifications.
Compounds for consumer and industrial applications
Like the first generation, the second generation of Universal PCR TPEs is designed for applications requiring both material performance and a high proportion of recycled raw materials. Depending on the grade, the compounds contain between 70% and 80% post-consumer recyclates.
The materials were developed to meet requirements for surface feel, surface quality and processability despite their high PCR content. Typical applications include razor handles, protective caps, anti-slip elements, dog toys and feeding mats, as well as products for the sports and recreation sector.
"By using post-consumer recyclates, Kraiburg TPE is already utilizing recycled raw materials to produce the materials. This enables manufacturers to increase the recycled raw-material content in their products on the basis of a proportion of recyclates validated by an independent body," said Dr. Andrea Winterstetter, Corporate Sustainability Manager at Kraiburg TPE.
Matthias Wagner, Head of Sales Consumer EMEA, added: "Using recyclates requires not only materials with a relevant proportion of recyclates, but also solutions that meet the technical and quality requirements of modern consumer goods. Our products combine high PCR content with the performance features that manufacturers need for their applications."
Independent verification of recycled content
Verification of recyclate content is becoming increasingly important for manufacturers. Alongside regulatory developments, customer and retail requirements concerning the transparency of material flows and resource use are increasing. Validation can support documentation of post-consumer recyclate use and verification of relevant material specifications throughout the supply chain.
UL Solutions conducted the Environmental Claim Validation in accordance with UL 2809-2, Edition 3. The validation confirms the declared proportion of post-consumer recycled content in line with the definitions of ISO 14021:2016 and is based on an independent review of the relevant evidence and processes.