Vynova announced the launch of a research & development programme to further advance PVC recycling and help the PVC value chain accelerate towards circularity. Vynova’s innovation efforts focus on technologies to remove heavy metals from dissolved rigid post-consumer PVC waste such as used window profiles or pipes.

PVC is widely used in numerous long-lasting and durable applications and can be repeatedly mechanically recycled without any significant loss of key properties.

Vynova has launched an R&D programme comprising both internal research efforts and collaborations with academic institutions. One of these collaborations is focused on removing heavy metals, such as lead and cadmium, from end-of-life rigid PVC products through a combination of dissolution and membrane filtration technologies. If the current research efforts are successful in providing expanded, viable recycling options for the European PVC industry, Vynova will move towards industrialisation of these technologies by 2030.

“In the last few years, we have explored various technology options to contribute to improved PVC circularity. This R&D programme aims to complement and further build on existing mechanical recycling technologies. We look forward to continue engaging with value chain partners and contribute to their circular PVC ambitions,” comments Rudy Miller, Vice President Vinyls Business and Head of Circularity at Vynova.