BORETECH New-Generation PURIFINES Pilot System, Transforming PET Recycling Residues into Revenue

BORETECH, a global innovator in plastic recycling technologies, has completed testing of its new-generation PURIFINES in-line recycling process. Designed to address significant yield loss in PET bottle washing lines, this system effectively converts previously discarded PET fines and powders into high-value, market-ready recycled PET (rPET) material.

A major challenge in PET bottle recycling is the operational cost increase due to processing losses. In a PET recycling facility processing 50,000 tons of PET bottles annually, industry experience indicates that 3-4% of the input material becomes small size flakes and powder. Approximately half of this material traditionally holds no commercial value, requiring recyclers to pay additional fees for its disposal.

The new PURIFINES system tackles this issue directly. These fines and powders, generated across various stages of the washing line, like crushing, hot washing, and dewatering, can now be efficiently recovered. Through its specialized process, the system can transform up to 70% of this residual material into valuable rPET material. What was once a disposal cost is now converted into a new profit stream, significantly enhancing a plant's competitiveness.

The newly tested system is designed for direct integration into existing PET bottle recycling production lines. It utilizes professional in-line filtration, precise separation, and intensive washing technologies to purify the formerly worthless PET residues. The output is a clean, consistent rPET material that meets the high-quality standards required for downstream applications, matching the grade of rPET produced by the main PET washing line.

"We are moving beyond waste management towards value creation," said the Vice General Manager of BORETECH. "The new-generation PURIFINES process represents a strategic investment for PET recyclers. It directly reduces operational costs by eliminating disposal fees and simultaneously transforms this waste into a new revenue source, significantly strengthening our customer' market position."

The key economic advantage of the PURIFINES system lies in its compelling cost-effectiveness. The operational cost of the complete process—transforming waste into a sellable product—is substantially lower than the prevailing market price for premium rPET flakes. This ensures a considerable and rapid Return on Investment (ROI) for recyclers.

The commercial launch of the new-generation PURIFINES system is scheduled for the first quarter of next year.