Recycling of plastics in electronic waste for industrial applications
Alfred PRACHT Lichttechnik GmbH is developing upcycling approaches which not only reduce CO2 emissions but also extend the service life of materials and improve the quality of light.
With PRACHT INFINITY, lighting technology expert PRACHT is pursuing the goal of improving sustaina-bility in the electrical and industrial sectors by recycling synthetic materials from end-of-life luminaires and using them to manufacture new products. According to a study published last year by Plastics Europe, around 82 per cent of plastics contained in electronic waste is currently incinerated in Germany, resulting in high CO2 emissions. PRACHT INFINITY aims to reduce this figure and close the raw material cycle by reusing plastics in e-waste. This approach aims to reduce the consumption of resources and promote the responsible use of raw materials. There is great potential for saving energy, particularly in the case of refurbishment. Improved illumination and higher luminous efficacy can increase the quality of light, which has a positive effect on conditions in various industrial sectors. Research into the ageing processes of synthetic materials is also being driven forward in order to extend their service life and enable high-quality upcycling.
Sustainable circular economy
Plastics recycling contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions by reducing the incineration of plastics and the associated emissions. An example from the transport and logistics sector illustrates the implementation of the circular model. As part of a project, around 800 luminaires were collected from DB Cargo and replaced with PRACHT luminaires, which are manufactured in Germany from up to 98 per cent recycled material. Average values showed that up to 325 kilograms of recyclable plastic could be recovered from the collected luminaires in this way and returned to the production cycle. In addition, the use of reusable containers led to a saving of almost 560 kilograms of cardboard and packaging material, generating both financial and material-related benefits. This example shows how recycling solutions and cooperation between industry and wholesalers can promote a more environmentally friendly future.
PRACHT diffuser luminaire made from up to 98 per cent recycled material. Photo: Alfred PRACHT Lichttechnik