Processes and techniques for incorporating tracers into polymers, for automated sorting of plastic waste from end-of-life products

Summary

In view of the implementation difficulties encountered by a number of automated sorting processes currently developed or used on ELVs* and WEEE**, RECORD has launched a state-of-the-art study to assess the technical and economic feasibility of methods based on the detection of a tracer previously incorporated into polymer parts. Several detection and sorting processes were studied, including optical, magnetic, X-ray fluorescence, ultra-violet, infrared and neutron. It appears that the addition of tracers (iron, rare earths, etc.) can improve the performance of these systems, particularly by reducing analysis time in the case of optical sorting, without affecting their economic viability. This study, with its highly motivating conclusions, raised many questions about the feasibility of these techniques (quantities of tracers to be used, effect of tracers on materials, etc.). This is why RECORD has decided to continue the project with a second experimental phase.

* end-of-life vehicles ** waste electrical and electronic equipment