LYB joint venture receives FDA nonobjection letters for recycled PP, HDPE processes

Genox LyondellBasell New Material Co. Ltd. (GXLYB), a Shanghai-based plastics recycling joint venture between LyondellBasell (LYB) and Genox Recycling, recently received letters of nonobjection from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its recycled polypropylene (PP) and recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) processes. LYB says the letters were issued April 28 and May 6, respectively.

The plastics producer and recycler says the letters demonstrate that the mechanical recycling processes in GXLYB for PP and HDPE meet the rigorous safety and quality standards established by the FDA, adding that “this recognition underscores the robustness of the company’s quality control systems, from raw materials sourcing to production and finished product testing.”

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Netherlands-based LYB says the joint venture applies these recycling processes to produce CirculenRecover polymers, made from plastic scrap through mechanical processing. The polymers cover a portfolio that includes injection molding, blow molding, extrusion applications and more. With the compliance of FDA-approved processing, LYB says CirculenRecover polymers can expand to offer customers recycled PP and PE in applications such as bottles and caps in the personal care and cosmetics industries, as well as the consumer goods, industrial, household and packaging industries.

“These two nonobjection letters are a strong endorsement of our recycling technology and products,” says Fu Limin, vice president of Polyolefins China and joint venture management at LYB, and chairman of the board of GXLYB. “The joint venture is part of our strategy to expand our circular polymer offerings in China. We will continue to provide local recycling solutions that help our customers and brand owners achieve their sustainability goals.”

The certification application process was supported by the ASSURIS Expert Services team from global quality assurance firm Intertek.

“This achievement reflects our global commitment to sustainability,” says Matthijs Beijk, vice president of feedstock and mechanical recycling EMEAI at LYB. “The development and application of the CirculenRecover product line enhance the value of recycled plastic waste and allows us to explore new opportunities in sustainable innovation. We will continue to promote the adoption of high-quality recycled materials across global markets.”