Recoflex-PE has barrier properties and sealing performance that mirrors a range of commonly used laminates in the flexible packaging sector that are not currently recycled.
The product is suitable for nuts and snacks, most cheeses, coffee, protein powders and nutrition packaging, as well as high-barrier lidding films for protein foods.
Parkside innovation director Phil O’Driscoll said Recoflex-PE has been designed to support a circular economy and that the market is potentially “vast” given public and government agendas on sustainability.
“This is the only product of its kind, I believe, available in the UK. I don't think there's anything else like this out there right now.
“It is targeted at retailers and brand owners that have made commitments on sustainability and recyclability and is suitable for complicated packaging that can't currently be recycled.”
On price he said: “If you have been using a super cheap, thin material that you have stripped out all the cost, this new product will be a fair bit more expensive.
"It depends on what you are going from in terms of materials. And while early adopters often pay more for any kind of product, increasing demand makes economies of scale more favourable and brings down costs.”
The laminate is made from 100% polyethylene (PE), which enables the packaging material to be recovered via established carrier bag collection and recycling centres. Consumers can take it to retail stores with collection points.
The laminate brings together two grades of PE blending functionality with good printability and mechanical strength, Parkside added. It can be used for most flow wraps, pouches or bags that require a high barrier and are not designed for use in elevated temperatures.
Set to be validated with recyclers and the OPRL scheme, Recoflex-PE is available now for production trials with customers, with the first market launch expected following their conclusion.
Parkside specialises in printing, lamination, laser, thermal and sustainable offerings for the food, drink and tobacco packaging industries.
Established more than 40 years ago, the company is a global supplier with manufacturing sites in the UK and Asia and headquarters in Normanton, West Yorkshire. The business recently invested around £1.5m on new laser equipment to open up business opportunities in reclosable packs.
