Converting other flexible plastic packaging into fiber reinforcement (higher-end use) for the construction industry

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This project is a collaboration between Recycle BC and the University of Victoria. Other Flexible Plastic Packaging (OFPP) is amongst the fastest growing type of packaging, typically generated as waste in households. Examples of OFPP include stand-up and zipper lock pouches, such as pouches for granola or frozen berries; crinkly wrappers and bags, such as coffee bags or chip bags; flexible packaging with a plastic seal, such as packaging for fresh pasta or pre-packaged deli meats; non-food protective wrap, such as bubble wrap or plastic envelopes; and net bags for onions, avocados, lemons, etc. OFPP is not easily recyclable because it is comprised of multiple layers and different kinds of plastics. The layers of OFPP require deconstruction in a special way with the need for altered recycling streams. Therefore, OFPP cannot be mixed with curbside plastic recycling material. At the moment, the collected OFPP is recovered and made into engineered fuel. This pilot project will help move the disposition of OFPP up the Pollution Prevention Hierarchy (PPH). This project aims to convert OFPP to green engineered surface-treated fibers (GESTF) and thus into fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC). Recycle BC will be able to work with the PI to potentially develop a new product that has a two-fold benefit of not only disposing of OFPP up the PPH but also helping the construction industry by improving the characteristics of concrete through use of fiber reinforcement.