Press release submitted on behalf of RecyClass

RecyClass has granted Dow’s ELVALOY™ AC 1330 additive its first-ever Automotive and Electrical & Electronic Equipment (EEE) Technology Approval, highlighting the additive’s full compatibility with the ABS recycling stream. This recognition marks the first single-component technology to meet RecyClass recyclability recommendations, which mirror current European recycling infrastructures for these sectors. ​ 

‘At RecyClass, we believe plastics circularity should span all sectors,’ said Paolo Glerean, Chairman of RecyClass. ‘However, before we can move forward and build sector-specific Design for Recycling Guidelines, it is essential to thoroughly assess the unique needs of each industry. Only with data-driven insights obtained with strong collaboration with the entire value chain, can we develop transparent and reliable recommendations for plastic recyclability and significantly boost the availability of circular materials across all sectors.’ ​ 

The approval was released by the RecyClass Automotive & EEE Technical Committee, following rigorous testing in accordance with the newly developed RecyClass Recyclability Evaluation Protocol for ABS Plastic Components. Testing was conducted at AIMPLAS, one of the RecyClass Recognised Testing Facilities for Automotive and EEE.

ELVALOY™ AC 1330 is a copolymer of ethylene and methyl acrylate, containing 30% methyl acrylate by weight. In this evaluation, the material was compounded at 10 wt% with a natural ABS resin. The additive is specifically designed to improve the impact performance of ABS compounds, which is critical for a variety of applications, ranging from interior trim and exterior components in vehicles to control panels and casings in appliances like washing machines, coffee machines, and kitchen devices.

With the proposal of the End-of-Life Vehicles (ELV) Regulation setting a benchmark for 85% recyclability or reusability by mass, and the upcoming revision of the Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive, robust and transparent recyclability assessments are essential to make plastics circularity a reality across all sectors. ​ 

RecyClass remains committed to providing the industry with robust science-based, standardised protocols, ensuring that innovation in product performance can be delivered without compromising recyclability. Companies interested in testing their plastics components for Automotive and EEE applications are invited to apply. 

_{About RecyClass}

^{RecyClass is a non-profit, cross-industry initiative advancing recyclability, bringing transparency to the origin of plastic waste, and establishing a harmonised approach toward recycled plastic calculation & traceability in Europe. RecyClass develops Recyclability Evaluation Protocols and scientific testing methods for innovative plastic materials which serve as the base for the Design for Recycling Guidelines and the RecyClass Online Tool. RecyClass established Recyclability Certifications for plastic packaging, Sorting Process, Recycling Process, and Recycled Plastics Traceability Certifications for plastic products.} 

^{RecyClass – Plastic Future is Circular} 

_{Contact : communication@recyclass.eu, www.recyclass.eu}