EN 13427-20 Recovery and Recycling Test
The EN 13427:2015 standard for the determination of recovery fraction of plastic packaging waste is a crucial test to ensure that packaging materials are recyclable. This test measures how much of a given material can be recovered from post-consumer waste streams, thereby aiding in sustainable practices and compliance with environmental regulations.
The test involves the mechanical recycling process where plastics undergo shredding, washing, drying, and melting before being remolded into new products. The recovery fraction is defined as the percentage of plastic packaging waste that can be recovered from a given post-consumer waste stream through this process. This parameter plays a significant role in assessing the recyclability of plastic materials, particularly those used in food contact applications.
For the EN 13427-20 test, the following steps are typically followed:
- Sample Preparation: The packaging samples should be representative of the material composition and weight. They need to undergo pre-treatment such as washing, drying, and shredding.
- Sorting and Sorting Efficiency: This step involves sorting the waste stream into different fractions based on their plastic type. The sorting efficiency is crucial for accurate recovery fraction calculation.
- Extraction of Recyclable Material: Once sorted, the recyclable material from each fraction is extracted using appropriate techniques such as flotation or magnetic separation.
- Weighing and Calculation: Weigh the extracted recyclable plastic and calculate the recovery fraction by dividing it by the total weight of the packaging waste.
The test results are reported in percentage form, indicating the efficiency of the recycling process. Compliance with this standard ensures that packaging materials can be effectively recycled into new products without significant degradation in quality or functionality.
Understanding the recovery fraction is essential for companies aiming to reduce their environmental footprint and meet regulatory requirements under Directive 2018/851 on Packaging and Packaging Waste. The test results provide valuable insights into the recyclability of plastic packaging, helping manufacturers make informed decisions about material selection and process optimization.
Applied Standards
The EN 13427-20 Recovery and Recycling Test is part of a broader set of standards that guide the recycling industry towards more sustainable practices. This includes:
- ISO 14001: Environmental Management Systems – Ensures organizations follow internationally recognized environmental management systems.
- ASTM D6953-06(2020): Standard Guide for Use of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) – Provides guidelines on the use of near-infrared spectroscopy in sorting and identifying plastic materials.
The EN 13427:2015 standard specifically addresses the recovery fraction, which is a key metric for evaluating the recyclability of plastic packaging. Compliance with these standards ensures that the testing methods used are consistent and reliable across different laboratories.
Eurolab Advantages
Eurofins Scientific – Eurolab, a trusted partner in packaging testing, offers advanced capabilities for the EN 13427-20 Recovery and Recycling Test. Our expertise ensures accurate and reliable results:
- We have state-of-the-art facilities equipped with modern sorting equipment that meets international standards.
- Our team of experts is well-trained and certified to perform this test according to the latest methodologies prescribed by EN 13427:2015.
- Our laboratory adheres strictly to ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, ensuring that our results are valid and reliable.
The accuracy of our results is further enhanced by our rigorous quality control processes. We continuously update our methods based on the latest technological advancements and regulatory changes.
Use Cases and Application Examples
| Use Case | Description |
|---|---|
| Supplier Evaluation | Evaluate the recyclability of a supplier’s plastic packaging material to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. |
| Product Development | Assess the impact of different formulations on recycling efficiency during product development stages. |
| R&D Optimization | Identify areas for improvement in plastic packaging design to enhance recyclability and recovery fraction. |
| Compliance Monitoring | Monitor compliance with the EN 13427:2015 standard as part of ongoing environmental management systems. |
| End-of-Life Strategy | Develop strategies for managing plastic packaging waste effectively, ensuring that a high recovery fraction is achieved. |
| Reverse Logistics | Evaluate the effectiveness of reverse logistics processes in recovering and recycling post-consumer plastic packaging waste. |
- Sorting Efficiency: The test helps identify sorting challenges that may reduce recovery fraction. By optimizing sorting methods, companies can improve their overall recycling performance.
- New Material Development: Understanding the recyclability of new materials allows manufacturers to innovate while ensuring environmental sustainability.
