The PVC Loop project by AIMPLAS examined the mechanical recyclability of flexible PVC (PVC-P) from medical applications. The study focused on medical tubing used in IV solutions, blood, and dialysis systems, completing six full recycling cycles, including grinding, extrusion, and injection moulding steps, with no additivation carried out between the cycles.
Findings show that mechanical properties, including tensile strength and plasticiser content, remain stable across six cycles, with only minor degradation observed for the static thermostability after the fourth cycle. The dynamic thermal stability tests confirmed the material’s durability under processing conditions. However, slight yellowing was observed after the sixth cycle, indicating aesthetic limitations after many recycling cycles.
A complementary BASF study demonstrated that another PVC-P composition can endure up to 11 extrusion cycles with maintained thermostability, though light yellowing was noticeable after the sixth cycle.
Overall, the study confirms that, as rigid PVC, flexible PVC from medical products retains its functional properties through multiple recycling cycles, supporting its potential for sustainable recycling in the healthcare sector and contributing to a circular economy.
