Veolia creates reusable 'Pro-Fibre' pulp from non-recyclable fiber

HATTON GARDEN (Scrap Monster): The London, U.K-headquartered Veolia has unleashed novel technology that will bring in immense opportunities for non-recyclable paper and cardboard. The new technology transforms non-recyclable fiber into pulp product named ‘Pro-Fibre’, which could then be used in a wide range of products. The innovation underlines Veolia’s commitment to the circular economy, company press release said.

As per latest government data, the UK recycles nearly 815 million metric tons of recovered fiber per year. The recycling facilities reject different types of paper which are contaminated with glass, sand, plastic, metal, food and grease. This non-recyclable paper is generally transported to landfills or energy recovery facilities. Veolia’s new technology converts these rejected materials into recyclable material.

The company plans to invest USD 1.6 million at its Sheffield, England to implement the new technology. The facility will have a capacity to treat up to 20,000 metric tons per annum of non-recyclable fiber. The plant will initially produce up to 14,000 metric tons of Pro-Fibre. The new technology uses a five-step procedure involving identifying and capturing the non-recyclable fiber fragments, pulping, cleaning, screening and mechanical pressing. The above process will help to remove contaminants from paper and produce clean pulp.

According to Veolia, the the Pro-Fibre product could be used as raw-material in manufacture of wide range of products including cellulose-based insulation products, packaging products and construction materials.

The 'Pro-Fibre' production is expected to start early 2015.