Packaging and process optimization of plastic packaging with sleeves

This refers to a specific type of packaging labeling. Up to 100% of the main body is covered and usually no adhesive is used. Sleeves can offer added value in many ways. However, recyclability needs to be improved. If the main packaging body is correctly identified during sorting and/or the sleeves can be easily separated, we are convinced that sleeves can contribute to improving the quality of recyclates, as contaminants (such as printing inks) can be optimally removed from the material flow.

The consortium has defined various levers for optimizing the recyclability of sleeve packaging:

• The packaging design,
• consumer behavior,
• technical sortability, and
• the necessary preparatory steps for recycling.
   

The project aims to evaluate advantageous material combinations for sleeves from specific product categories (use cases) in terms of material characterization, communication elements, sustainability aspects, and design for recycling (packaging design). Surveying consumer behavior should provide information about current separation behavior and its potential. In order to improve detection with regard to sorting, the researchers want to investigate optimal material combinations for packaging by means of experimental surveys of sortability with the help of sensor-based technology. 
In addition, the potential for improving sleeve separation (preparation for recycling) and high recyclate quality will be determined with the help of limit values (recycling) to be determined. Based on these project results, Design4Recycling specifications for sleeved packaging of selected product categories can be developed.

The project aims to evaluate advantageous material combinations for sleeves from specific product categories (use cases) (packaging design) and to survey consumer behavior in order to improve detection (sorting), separability (sleeve separation), and recyclate quality (recycling).