Recycling of Fiber-Based Materials with Transfer Metallic Decoration

This study, commissioned by the Foil & Specialty Effects Association and conducted by the Van Dyk Technology Center, investigates the recyclability of fiber-based materials with transfer metallic decoration. The objective of the study was to provide clear evidence that such decorated materials can be effectively recycled without causing issues in the repulping process. The research involved extensive testing of various products, including folding cartons and greeting cards, to assess how they are handled in recycling streams. The findings indicate that all tested samples, which featured varying degrees of metallic decoration, were successfully sorted and included in the recycling stream. The study utilized advanced sorting technology to demonstrate that these materials do not pose a problem for recycling facilities. The results support the notion that transfer metallic decorated materials are indeed recyclable and are currently being processed by Materials Recovery Facilities across North America.