The increasing importance of plastic recyclates in the circular economy requires clear and comprehensible quality standards. This is precisely where the standards DIN EN ISO 15344 and DIN EN ISO 15345 come in. They deal with the characterisation of recyclates made from polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) and create a reliable basis for communication and quality assurance between suppliers and customers.
Standardised basis for quality assurance
The two standards aim to facilitate standardised agreements – in particular by defining mandatory properties that are required to describe a plastic recyclate. These include, among others:
- Density
- Melt flow rate (MFR )
These basic parameters provide important information about the processability and application of the recyclates, but are of course far from sufficient to adequately characterise the quality.
Optional tests – a useful addition to the basic specification
In addition to the mandatory parameters, the standards also list a series of optional tests that can be used as a supplement depending on the application. In practice, we recommend including certain additional tests in the specification in order to ensure quality in the long term and recognise fluctuations at an early stage.
Recommended optional examinations include:
- Residual moisture
- Determination of foreign polymers
- Ash content
- Mechanical characteristics, e.g.
- Elongation at break
- Maximum tensile strength
Extended parameters for specific requirements
In addition to the properties defined in the standards, other test parameters can be highly relevant depending on the application – especially in the area of packaging with food contact or technical applications. These include, for example
- Screening for potentially genotoxic substances
- Sensory testing (odour )
- Colour location measurement of the granulate
These extended tests enable a more precise assessment of the recyclate’s suitability for sensitive areas of application and help to minimise risk.
Why a specification is essential – outlook for the PPWR
When the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) comes into force in August 2026, the use of recyclate in packaging will become mandatory. This legal change will significantly increase the demand for recycled plastics.
As a result, material bottlenecks and the associated fluctuations in material quality are to be expected – especially if no clear requirements are defined for the recyclate. A clear specification based on the aforementioned standards helps to ensure quality, minimise risks and establish stable long-term supply relationships.
You can order our general film specification template here free of charge by e-mail.
Early data collection creates advantages
Early and comprehensive data collection on material quality not only creates transparency regarding the recycled materials used, but also facilitates the targeted search for suppliers. It also enables an open exchange with existing suppliers, for example in the further development of materials or the optimisation of supply relationships.
Innoform – Your partner for plastics analysis
The above-mentioned tests can be carried out at Innoform. As a competent partner in plastics analysis, we support you in the selection of suitable test methods and are happy to advise you when it comes to implementing a standard-compliant and future-proof specification.
Contact us – we will help you to use recyclates safely and efficiently. Phone: 0441 94986-22 or TS@innoform.de
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