Circular Polymers develops old carpets into recycled polymers

Circular Polymers by Ascend has utilized its exclusive carpet reclaiming process to create Cerene, a range of recycled polymers and materials suitable for molding, compounding, and other applications.

Available in PET, polypropylene, calcium carbonate, and polyamide 6 and 66, Cerene is produced by transforming post-consumer carpet into fiber and pellets through a unique method.

This method is believed to achieve remarkable recycling efficiency by reusing almost all components of a carpet and its backing. Since 2018, the company claims to have diverted 85 million pounds of carpet from landfills and repurposed it into new products.

This advancement aligns with Ascend’s sustainability strategy encompassing three core principles: empowering individuals, innovating solutions, and operating sustainably.

Maria Field, business director of Circular Polymers by Ascend, stated, “Global customers are seeking dependable post-consumer recycled materials. Cerene is mechanically recycled using an approach that minimizes our carbon footprint and environmental impact.”

The company also announced carbon neutrality in its global compounding operations and secured ISCC+ certification for using bio-based materials. Circular Polymers received recognition through awards including the Plastic Industry Sustainability Innovation award, the Showcase award from the Association of Plastic Recyclers, the Arrow Award from the California Product Stewardship Council, and the Processor of the Year award from the Carpet America Recovery Effort.

Ascend Performance Materials, the majority owner of Circular Polymers by Ascend and a producer of high-performance materials, has recently developed HiDura LUX amorphous nylon for packaging films. This material boasts excellent oxygen and moisture barrier properties and is deemed safe for contact with food.

In 2019, PureCycle Technologies also achieved a breakthrough by purifying waste carpet into ultra-pure polypropylene resin using a special plastics recycling technology pioneered by Procter & Gamble. This technology aimed to provide an alternative to landfilling and exporting plastic waste.