Extrusion International 1-2026

46 Extrusion International 1/2026 RECYCLING value chains,” explains Dr. Hatice Malatyali, project manager at SKZ.

 
Suitable synthesis routes arefirst developed in the lab - oratory and then transferred to the continuous process. One focus is on the efficient separation of mixed fibers such as cotton and PET. Cellulose acetate is to be pro- duced from the cellulose fibers obtained, while the de - graded PET fractions are repolymerized to rPET. “With this project, we are making an important contribution to reducing textile waste and strengthening the circular economy,” emphasizes Prof. Dr. Andreas Hartwig from the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Applied Materials Research IFAM.

 SKZ Plastics Center Theresa Forster t.forster@skz.de PET Recycling MAS introduces the iQonicTwin HyperPET, an innovative platform for PET recycling designed to meet the highest standards for food-contact applications while unlocking new business opportunities. The flagship HyperPET solution integrates MAS’s proven co-rotating conical twin- screw extruder with a Solid-State Polycondensation (SSP) process based on infrared radiation and vacuum, eliminating the need for nitrogen, to deliver exceptional intrinsic viscosity (IV), color stability, and minimal acet - aldehyde (AA) formation at reduced energy consumption. MAS is partnering with PET recy- cling specialist Christian Schiavolin to integrate his proven solution into the innovative MAS iQ Series. Through the iQonicTwin HyperPET solution, MAS is working closely with him to solidify further its posi- tion as a leading provider of com- prehensive plastics recycling and upcycling services. iQonicTwin HyperPET: Pre-Extrusion SSP In the HyperPET configuration, polycondensation occurs upstream of extrusion: 1. RPET flakes are pre-heated and dried in a crystallizer. 2. The MOBY reactor applies in- frared radiation under vacuum, re- ducing moisture and adjusting IV to the target level for bottle-grade applications. 3. Stored heat reduces extru- sion energy needs and increases throughput. While traditional food-grade PET recycling relies on “bottle-to-bot- tle” processes, HyperPET extends capabilities to future “tray-to-bot- tle” recycling. This allows for the processing of both bottle and PET tray regrind, either alone or blend- ed, thereby expanding the feed- stock pool and reducing reliance on post-consumer bottles. Operational and Economic Benefits The MAS iQ HyperPET solution offers: • Stable, high-quality pellets with consistent IV, color, and low AA • Compliance with the strictest food-contact regulations • Reduced OPEX thanks to energy savings and operational simplifica - tion • Greater sourcing flexibility, im - proving ROI Flexible Capacities iQonicTwin HyperPET is available in three capacities, making it suit- able for both pilot lines and indus- trial-scale applications. MAS also now offers a rPET SSP solution and a rPET Regran solution, which are part of the new innova- tive MAS portfolio. M-A-S Maschinen- und Anlagenbau Schulz GmbH www.mas-austria.com Sampling of reaction products from the continuous chemical recycling process (Photo: Luca Hoffmannbeck, SKZ)