Solvay introduces recycled-content polyamide line

Brussels-based polymers producer Solvay has introduced what it calls a high-performance polyamide (HPPA) compound family based on a minimum of 33 percent recycled content. Known as Omnix, the blends include a resin consisting of 70 percent post-industrial and post-consumer recycled content Solvay says is “highly secured and has a controlled process by the supplier.”

Omnix ReCycle HPPA technology is part of Solvay’s One Planet roadmap designed to be “continuously improving the environmental footprint and circularity of its product portfolio,” says the firm,

“As Solvay’s first-ever recycled-based HPPA with 50 percent glass fiber reinforcement, Omnix ReCycle is a real breakthrough in the market of polyamides for household appliances,” says Claire Guerrero, global marketing manager for packaging segment and sustainability at Solvay

Adds Guerrero of Omnix, “It combines the outstanding mechanical properties of virgin semi-aromatic HPPA with better flow, lower water pickup and best-in-class surface aspect. In addition, its unique performance and sustainability profile offers an attractive material solution for brand owners and manufacturers who seek to increase the recycled content in their products without compromising dimensional stability, high stiffness, impact resistance and processability.”

Solvay cites household appliances as an application in which Omnix can deliver “higher durability than provided by standard PA6 or PA66 polymers.” Adds the company, “This helps OEMs reduce breakage and damage returns while meeting the growing awareness of consumers for longevity and lower environmental impact in their product choices. With its excellent surface appearance, the new recycled-based HPPA can also eliminate the need for painting, which adds to its overall sustainable benefits and facilitates the end-of-life recyclability of applications in an increasingly circular plastics economy. Another target is wear and tear resistance for lightweight interior components in transportation and automotive.”

Solvay says Omnix ReCycle can be processed on standard injection molding equipment, including the use of water-heated molds. The recycled content of Omnix ReCycle saves resources and results in a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to virgin HPPA, adds the company.