Patents on Recycling and Sustainable Materials

Patent profile:

The invention relates to a packaging system from compatible thermoplastic materials comprising a packaging and at least one air-cushion system that is mounted at least in regions on the inner side of the packaging. The invention also relates to a method for packaging products by means of said packaging system, wherein a product is placed inside the packaging system and the air-cushion system is filled with gas before, during or after introducing the product.

Benefits for potential applications:

• High product protection: inflatable, interlinked air chambers absorb shocks and prevent movement.
• Fully recyclable design: packaging and air-cushion made from compatible (ideally identical) thermoplastics; enables single‑stream mechanical recycling.
• Reusable and space-saving: collapsible for storage/return; reduced logistics volume and costs.
• Customizable performance: barrier film options (air/O2/N2, water vapor), high puncture resistance, chamber layout tuned to product.
• Simple operation: inflate before/during/after loading via one or more valves; air or inert gas; typical overpressure 0.1–5 bar (preferably 1–2 bar).
• Broad material choices, including recyclates and biobased polymers (e.g., PLA); supports sustainability targets.

Patent profile:

The present invention relates to a method of stabilizing virgin thermoplastic material against oxidative, thermal and/or actinic degradation. In the method of the invention, at least one polyphenol and at least one alditol and/or cyclitol are introduced into a virgin thermoplastic material. The method of the invention can stabilize virgin thermoplastic material with high efficacy and in a very environmentally friendly and inexpensive manner against oxidative, thermal and/or actinic degradation. Stabilizer compositions, a process for stabilizing plastics and mouldings are claimed additionally.

Benefits for potential applications:

• High-efficiency, eco-friendly stabilization: bio-derived components (e.g., tannins/quercetin with mannitol/erythritol/inositol) reduce oxidative, thermal, and actinic (UV) degradation.
• Processing and long-term protection: lower melt-flow rise (MVR) and reduced polymer degradation  during extrusion; improved heat-aging retention (reduced property loss/yellowing).
• Primary–secondary AO-like synergy without petrochemical phosphites; can be used alone or alongside conventional phenolic and phosphite/HALS packages.
• Broad polymer coverage including polyolefins (PP/PE), styrenics, POM, PC, PA, PET/PBT, and bioplastics (PLA, PBS, PHAs).

Patent profile:

The present invention relates to a composite panel which contains or consists of at least one bio-based, particulate or rod-shaped natural substance (except wood), at least one duroplastically cured resin as a binder and at least one inorganic flame-retardant agent. The present invention also relates to a method for producing a corresponding composite panel. The present invention also discloses application possibilities of the composite panel according to the invention.

Benefits for potential applications:

• Low density with strong insulation: bulk density <250 kg/m³; thermal conductivity λ ≈ 30–45 mW/m·K (EN 12667)
• Designed for “hardly combustible” performance (EN 13501-1) using predominantly inorganic, halogen-free flame retardants; form-stable under fire, no flaming drips
• High bio-based content from low-cost, locally available residues (e.g., expanded cork granulate, peanut shells, sunflower stalks, straw) for reduced CO2 footprint
• Porous particulate/rod-like feedstocks enable lower binder demand and lighter boards than fiber/wood-based systems at comparable λ
• Broad formulation latitude: thermoset binders (PF/UF/MF, epoxy, unsaturated polyester, PU, furan; blends) and FR options (ATH, MDH, AOH, APP, clays, LDH, melamine salts, expandable graphite)
• Efficient, scalable processing: mix–form–hot-press at ~120–150 °C for 5–40 min; heating via steam, hot air, microwave, or IR; compatible with continuous presses
• Uniform FR distribution (FR dispersed in the resin) protects bio-particles in fire and supports integrity of the board
• Self-supporting panels; optional surface laminations (paper/veneer) and additives (fillers, pigments, biocides) for property and aesthetics tuning
• Application versatility: ETICS/façade insulation, general building boards, impact/footfall insulation, and acoustic damping
• Potential recyclability improvements and avoidance of halogenated FRs compared to conventional foam-based solutions

Patent profile:

The present invention relates to an oligomeric or polymeric phosphite, or to a composition comprising said oligomer or polymer, which are particularly useful as a stabiliser for organic materials. The present invention also relates to an intermediate for the synthesis of the above-mentioned oligomers or polymers.

Benefits for potential applications:

• Low migration and low volatility due to oligomer/polymer architecture; reduced blooming and extraction
• Strong processing and long-term stabilization under heat and oxygen; preserves mechanical and optical properties
• Sustainable chemistry: partly or largely from renewable feedstocks (tocopherol-based); alternative to petrochemical antioxidants
• Synergy with conventional stabilizers (primary phenolics/amines/lactones, HALS, UV absorbers, acid scavengers)
• Tunable performance via co‑oligomers (e.g., integrating HALS or varied diols) to optimize compatibility and light stability
• Broad substrate compatibility: polyolefins, styrenics, PVC, polyesters (incl. PLA, PBS, PBSA), polyamides, PC, elastomers; oils/lubricants; inhibition of premature polymerization in acrylates, styrene, etc.