The partners’ recycled BOPP film is now suitable for mass production. Credit: muph/Shutterstock.

A partnership comprising of TOPPAN, RM Tohcello, and Mitsui Chemicals have announced the development of a recycled biaxially oriented polypropylene film (BOPP).  

The development, claimed to be suitable for mass production, comes after the partners engaged in a joint pilot test for the horizontal recycling of printed BOPP flexible packaging film since August 2023.  

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The Japanese companies aim to provide samples of this innovative material starting this month. 

The introduction of the new recycled BOPP film aligns with the Japanese Government’s Resource Circulation Strategy for Plastics, which aims to shift toward reusable or recyclable plastic designs by 2025. 

By 2030, the strategy aims for 60% of plastic containers and packaging to be reused or recycled, and for the recycling rate of plastic materials to double.  

During the development process, printed film waste generated by TOPPAN are collected and transported to Mitsui Chemicals’ Nagoya Works.  

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There, the ink is removed, and the waste is transformed into pellets, which are subsequently converted into film by RM Tohcello. 

This recycled film has undergone extensive testing at TOPPAN’s packaging facilities, proving its suitability for mass production, including printing, laminating, and pouch forming. 

The physical properties of the film, when shaped into pouches, have also been evaluated, confirming its viability as a packaging solution.  

Following the pilot project, the three companies have established a technological and operational framework for the horizontal recycling of flexible packaging film.  

They anticipate the introduction of this new material into the market within fiscal 2025, aiming to further develop and popularise the concept of horizontal recycling in the sector. 

The samples of the recycled film will be exhibited TOKYO PACK 2024.  

The event is scheduled to take place at Tokyo Big Sight from 23 to 25 October 2024.