Elkem Launches Circular Economy Project for Recycling and Reuse of Elastomeric Materials

Norwegian company Elkem has recently announced the launch of the Circular Economy Project (RENOV), focused on the recycling and reuse of elastomeric materials. Elkem stated that the current economic model for producing plastics and polymers is primarily linear, involving extraction, manufacturing, and disposal. The RENOV project aims to address this by transitioning to a circular economy, involving the collection and recycling of waste materials to minimize environmental impact.

The project will focus on several key areas, including the development of a waste collection mechanism for elastomeric materials at the organizational level. Additionally, it will involve the development of methods for analyzing the chemical composition of waste and the implementation of mechanical or combined mechanical and chemical recycling processes at the scientific, technological, and regulatory levels. Furthermore, the project will conduct life cycle assessments (LCA) and research the overall costs of each solution, from waste recovery to the final processing and manufacturing of recycled products.

The expected outcomes of the organic silicon recycling project include innovative online analysis of waste chemical composition and monitoring of the recycling process. Additionally, the project will involve the micro-pulverization process for elastomeric materials, incorporating micro-pulverized elastomeric particles into formulations through mechanical and chemical recycling processes or using them as new raw materials through chemical treatment.

Elastomeric materials, known for their elasticity, sealing, and anti-vibration properties, are widely used in many applications. However, unlike thermoplastic polymers, recycling these materials is more complex due to the specific properties of cross-linked elastomers. Elkem's RENOV project aims to develop mechanical recycling technologies for cross-linked elastomeric waste, focusing on recycling techniques and material analysis. The project seeks to integrate the best proportion of recycled materials into formulations containing original elastomers for enhanced performance applications.

This initiative represents a significant step towards a more sustainable approach to material usage and waste management in the industry.