The success of automotive plastics recycling will be dependent on the development of economically viable high value target applications for recyclates.
After their first lifetime in automotive applications plastic recyclates show evidence of depleted stabilizer content, impurities, as well as thermo- and photo-oxidative byproducts. These alterations lead to a reduction in mechanical properties and to diminished processing, weathering, and heat aging performance. As a consequence, plastic recyclates are not currently suitable for use in high-value applications.
Results from selected successful automotive plastics recycling projects demonstrate the features and benefits of tailor-made additive systems to improve recyclate performance. Recent inquiries into the post-consumer recycling of battery cases, TPO bumpers, and fuel tanks have yielded data on the processing and weathering stability of recyclates, and on the influence of paint residues. Ciba's new additive systems enable the use of recyclates in demanding highvalue applications.