A group of researchers have found the use of recycled polypropylene in plastic packaging to be cheaper and more sustainable, making it a suitable option for companies looking to reduce waste as well as raw material costs.
Scientists at Iowa State University have recently published a study to determine the durability and physical performance of recycled plastics in food packaging. It was found to perform well mechanically in terms of strength, flexibility, integrity, and various other indicators such as heat resistance.
Polypropylene was considered for its low price, moldability, temperature, and chemical resistance, as well as outstanding mechanical properties. It is widely used in containers for hot liquids to do its high melting point, as well as in other products such as yogurt, syrup, medicine bottles, caps, and straws.
As such, it is one of the most abundant plastics, with packagers turning to the material to be used in bottled water and similar beverages. The study projects that polypropylene will generate substantial waste due to its continually increasing demand.
At the same time, researchers have highlighted the rising call for post-consumer recycled materials to be utilized in new consumer and industrial products. Recycled polypropylene would be considered a viable choice for companies looking to meet their sustainability requirements without increasing costs.
“This approach will produce environmentally responsible food plastic packaging in compliance with legislation in the circular economy,” the paper noted.
A viable and cost-effective alternative
The results demonstrate recycled polypropylene’s value outside of sustainability, as well. “[Post-consumer recycled] materials can also be used as a source of critical additives that would not need to be added to virgin plastics when blended together,” said Iowa State’s Drs. Keith Vorst and Greg Curtzwiler.
Lead author Dr. Ma. Cristine Concepcion D. Ignacio further called the research “unique” for focusing on “determining the compliance and physical performance of extrusion blow molded material recovery facility (MRF)-recovered post-consumer polypropylene bottle for direct food-contact applications”.
This can lead to greater efficiencies in companies’ packaging recycling programs.
“This study demonstrates the viability of a significant source of polypropylene and its notable long-term impacts, increasing profits by using [post-consumer recycled] materials,” the paper said.
