Italian rubber processor Oldrati investigating new recycling technology

Bergamo, Italy – Italian producer of rubber, plastics and silicone products Oldrati Group is investing €6 million in developing new advanced rubber recycling technology.

The research project, supported by the Italian government as part of an innovation award, will investigate the “regeneration of technical rubber articles” at the end of their life cycle.

Once regenerated, the rubber will be reintroduced as new raw material into the production chain, thus reducing landfill waste, said Oldrati in a statement 18 July.

The “distinctly innovative and sustainable process in the polymer world”, said the company, will reduce consumption of virgin raw materials and CO2 emissions.

Oldrati did not provide further information about the process but said it had submitted a ‘detailed application’ for the three-year project to the ministry of 'business and made-in-Italy'.

Gaining support for “a particularly advanced and innovative research… [shows] a recognition of our capability to conduct highly innovative projects,” said R&D director Paolo Morandi.

“Working on initiatives that actively contribute to a better environment makes us feel very motivated,” he added.