Elast2sustain

Expanding the use and recyclability of thermoplastic elastomers

Background to the project:

It is impossible to imagine our daily lives without plastics. Because of their light weight, colorability, corrosion resistance, and malleability, the range of possible applications is vast.

Since 1960, thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) have been introduced to the market as a sustainable alternative to vulcanized rubbers. Over the past 10 years, a wide range of TPE-based materials has been developed for a variety of applications. Given the current rise in raw material prices, the increasing carbon footprint, and the need to address the large volume of synthetic plastic waste, TPEs represent an alternative that companies must now consider.

That is why it became essential to help raise awareness of the potential of micro-enterprises on a cross-border scale and to improve their recyclability. This led to the creation of the Interreg France-Wallonia-Flanders project “ELAST2SUSTAIN,” which brings together Centexbel, URCA, ULille, KU Leuven, Certech, and EuraMaterials. The budget is €2.8 million spread over 48 months, with support from the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund).

This project is part of the European Green Deal and the Circular Plastics Alliance, whose goal is to grow the European market for recycled plastics to 10 million tons by 2025.

Key objectives of the Elast2sustain project:

• Advancing knowledge regarding the mechanical and chemical recycling of thermoplastic elastomers,
• Analysis of plastic processing methods incorporating recycled TPE,
• Development of a new generation of sustainable point-of-sale terminals.

For more information, please contact Lionel BUISSIÈRES

Partners:
The ELAST2SUSTAIN partnership consists of educational institutions and business development agencies with a strong presence among SMEs:
EuraMaterials (France)
Centexbel (Belgium)
Certech (Belgium)
University of Reims Champagne-Ardennes (France)
University of Lille (France)
Catholic University of Louvain (Belgium)

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