Recycler Works on Food-Grade RPET
To minimize contaminants, process uses optical sorting technology, inductive metal detection, aspiration technology.
05/12/2007 Tests show water-less recycling process patented by ECO2 Plastics, Inc., San Francisco, CA, yields food-grade recycled polyethylene terephthalate (RPET).
Company plans to file formal application with US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Washington, DC, early in 2008. Preliminary results indicate recycling process produces PET resin that is suitabe for use at levels up to 100% in manufacture of food-contact articles for all types of food under FDA’s Condition of Use C (hot-filled or pasteurized above 150 F) through H (frozen or refrigerated storage: ready-prepared foods intended to be reheated in container at time of use).
Technology developed through research partnership with Honeywell FM&T, Kansas City, MO, US Department of Energy, Washington, DC, relies on biodegradable solvent, plus liquid carbon dioxide in closed-loop system that reuses cleaning agents, eliminates water, waste water. To minimize contaminants, process uses optical sorting technology, inductive metal detection, aspiration technology.
Company generates $1.4 million in revenue in 3Q07, reflecting startup of recycling system at plant in Riverbank, CA, which it expects to ramp up to 24/7 operation by end of 4Q07.
