Germany-based compounder of thermoplastics Mocom has added light diffusing and light guiding mechanically recycled compounds to its Alcom product portfolio, in what it claims is a world first.
The Alcom LD (light diffusing) and LG (light guiding) Eco lines are made from up to 100% polymer post-consumer and post-industrial recyclates. Suited for light diffusing, translucent applications in the automotive industry, the products reportedly avoid the typical LED “hot spots” and are available in different polymers, including PC, MABS, MBS, copolyester, or PMMA.
"New regulations in the automotive sector will increasingly demand recyclate-based solutions in the future, even in applications where it would not be expected,” said Kurt Maschke, senior director global marketing automotive at Mocom. “To meet these needs at an early stage and support our customers today in applications for tomorrow's indoor and outdoor lighting projects, we are now expanding our sustainable portfolio ahead of time with Alcom LD Eco and Alcom LG Eco.
The production process includes screening of the material streams, which are then compounded on specially designed process equipment and provided with precisely selected additives, Mocom said in a statement. Their photometric properties are also individually adjusted and specified for the new Eco grades.
Mocom said the use of mechanically recycled polycarbonate reduces the Global Warming Potential (GWP) by up to 80% compared to virgin material. The products are currently available worldwide and are being produced at Mocom’s European facilities, which use only electricity from renewable sources.
Mocom will be exhibiting its sustainable lighting portfolio at Fakuma 2023 in Friedrichshafen, Germany, from October 17 to 21.