Digital Product Passport Trialed by Henkel Consumer Brands
Joint project between R Cycle and converter Korozo Group is implementing packaging traceability technology.
Consumer Brands is testing the R-Cycle digital product passport (DPP) platform, in a joint project that also includes packaging converter Korozo group.
The digital data set contains information such as the material composition, technical specifications and recyclability of a product. Each product is allocated a unique identifier, accessible via a suitable marking such as a QR code or RFID tag, to facilitate its traceability along the value chain. The quality of the assigned data recorded is crucial. Companies along the value chain provide the relevant information, which is prepared in a standardized format and made accessible to all stakeholders.
Henkel is trialing digital passport technology, which carries information about the materials with the package. Source: R Cycle.
In the packaging industry, the DPP satisfies regulatory requirements and improves sustainability. “The DPP enables the seamless traceability of packaging along the supply chain, creates transparency and facilitates legal compliance,” says Philippe Blank, head of circular economy at Henkel.
Loctite Liofol solvent-free adhesive, developed by Henkel, is used to laminate stand-up pouches. It is characterized by its chemical and thermal resistance, making it suitable for aggressive filling goods, pasteurization and high-speed packaging lines with a high seal temperature.
Each package produced with Loctite Liofol is given a QR code which is linked with the R-Cycle DPP. This ensures that technical data, safety information and environmental aspects can be accessed. Henkel is working with R-Cycle to extend this traceability, thus optimizing the disposal and recyclability of the product.
Flow of information carried by the digital product passport (DPP).Source: R Cycle.
Dr. Benedikt Brenken, director at R-Cycle, explains: “The application with Henkel shows very well how relevant information on the packaging components used — in this case the adhesive — can be recorded in the DPP and made available throughout the entire product life cycle. In this way, we create a defined level of transparency and easy traceability along the value chain. We see this as a decisive advantage regarding the constantly growing information demand.”
Henkel also records the carbon emissions generated in the manufacture and use of the lamination adhesive in the DPP. This information is critical to complying with the and to assessing the product’s carbon footprint throughout its entire life cycle.
The information recorded in the DPP enables companies to properly manage the disposed packaging when it arrives to the sorting and recycling center.
Related Content
-
Golf Equipment Manufacturer Scores Higher Productivity With Automated Cell
Ping was able to reduce labor and waste at its production facility in Phoenix via an automated molding cell courtesy of Wittmann.
-
Beyond the Work Center: Using MES for Data-Driven Decisions Across Manufacturing Operations
Move past “is the job running” and “will it finish on time,” and apply MES to inform workflows ranging from accounting, inventory control, planning, material logistics, quality assurance, engineering and shipping.
-
Four Industry 4.0 Tech Adoption Insights from Indiana Plastics Manufacturers
As more plastics manufacturers step into the Fourth Industrial Revolution, insights have emerged about how best to approach the digital transformation journey.