Avient launches TPEs with recycled content from automotive windshields

Cleveland, OH – Avient announced the latest additions to its growing reSound R recycled content thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) portfolio. The materials are a result of close collaboration with Shark Solutions, a global leader in advanced sustainable polyvinyl butyral (PVB) products. Both new TPEs contain 25 percent post-consumer recycled (PCR) content from PVB reclaimed from broken automotive windshields and laminated architectural glass.

It is estimated that 75 million broken windshields need replacing each year. This abundant supply includes thousands of tons of PVB, found in the inner layer of the glass, potentially bound for landfills. Instead, the outer glass is recycled and the PVB is reclaimed and reprocessed for various uses, including an alternative raw material source for polymers. Avient’s unique formulation expertise allows the supply of reprocessed, high-quality, non-toxic PVB to be upcycled into more sustainable TPEs with excellent properties.

Developed in 45 to 55 durometer A hardnesses, the new reSound R grades are said to be ideal for general purpose applications in the consumer and automotive industries. Both injection moldable TPEs can be overmolded to polypropylene (PP) and come in a natural grade that can be easily colored. 

These reSound R grades with PCR content offer similar performance properties to traditional TPEs and are suitable for many durable consumer products and grips, such as personal care items, lawn and garden tools, golf clubs and footwear. Their performance properties also fit automotive applications that could benefit from vibration damping, such as door mats, door damping and glove boxes.

“This technology brings together advanced material science and innovation to support customers’ goals and the circular economy,” said Matt Mitchell, director, global marketing of Specialty Engineered Materials at Avient. “These material developments create an opportunity to help divert mountains of valuable resources from the waste stream and upcycle them into new products that offer excellent performance and value.”

“Our mission is to create high-performance raw materials from a former waste stream of laminated glass, instead of allowing it to decompose in landfills over thousands of years,” said Jens Holmegaard, CEO and founder of Shark Solutions. “Avient shares our vision to preserve limited natural resources for future generations through products that enhance performance and protect the environment.”

Available globally, the new reSound R TPEs are formulated with regionally recycled PVB.