NOVA Chemicals is advancing a project to enhance the use of recycled polyethylene (rPE) through advanced compounding technologies. The project aims to address the limitations of mechanical recycling, such as polymer degradation and contamination, which currently restrict rPE applications to lower-tier products. By developing new polymer designs and specialty compounding formulations, NOVA seeks to enable increased rPE usage in high-performance applications, promoting circularity and positioning Alberta as a leader in recycling and upcycling.
The project will leverage NOVA’s expertise in polyethylene production, R&D capabilities, and its new mechanical recycling facility in Indiana. By acquiring new pilot-scale R&D equipment and forming strategic partnerships, NOVA aims to establish the first Recycling Innovation Cluster in Alberta and commercialize rPE solutions that meet the strict requirements of high-tier applications. This initiative will help customers increase the recycled content in their products, supporting their sustainability goals and regulatory requirements.