Oct 14

Case Study: Recycled Plastic Sheets - Sustainable Solutions for Interior Design

Discover Knof Recycled Plastics on 2050 Materials

Background

In response to the growing environmental challenges posed by plastic waste, KNOF has developed large-format sheets made from 100% recycled polypropylene (PP), sourced from local industrial and consumer waste. These sheets, produced in KNOF’s circular factory, demonstrate the company’s commitment to sustainability and ecological design. The innovation behind these sheets lies in the mechanical recycling process, which extends the life cycle of plastic waste and contributes significantly to reducing carbon emissions.

Innovation and Sustainability

The recycled plastic sheets are primarily made from post-industrial polypropylene waste, which is collected locally and transformed into high-quality, durable materials for use in interior design. Through mechanical recycling, these waste products are regenerated into aesthetically appealing, versatile sheets that offer a sustainable alternative to virgin plastic products.

According to the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study by N. Skliarov on the recycling of PP waste, the method used for recycling plastic waste significantly reduces the environmental impact. In comparison to raw plastic production, the recycling process cuts emissions dramatically. The study shows that the CO2 emissions associated with producing plastic from recycled materials are only 0.115 kg, while producing plastic from raw materials emits 1.593 kg per kilogram of product, resulting in a 93% reduction in emissions.

Environmental Data for Knof Recycled Plastic Panels

Knof Recycled Plastic Panels on 2050 Materials

The sheets not only prevent large quantities of plastic waste from ending up in landfills or being incinerated, but they also offer a way to repurpose this waste into valuable materials. By upcycling waste plastic, KNOF contributes to a circular economy and helps slow the exponential growth of plastic pollution.

Applications and Design

Image of recycled plastics from Knof

KNOF’s recycled plastic sheets are produced in large formats (2.3 x 1.2 meters) with thicknesses ranging from 5 to 20 mm, making them versatile for various design and construction applications. The sheets are offered in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including terrazzo and marble-inspired finishes, which are suitable for use in both residential and commercial interiors. In addition to their sustainability, the sheets possess strong mechanical properties, including high strength and temperature resistance, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and industrial applications.

Discover the variety of recycled plastics by Knof

Designers and manufacturers can easily process these sheets using standard woodworking tools, making them an attractive and sustainable alternative to traditional materials. Their versatility allows them to be used in furniture production, wall panelling, and other interior design projects while offering a lower environmental impact.

Impact and Benefits

The recycled plastic sheets offer numerous benefits:

Environmental Impact

The LCA highlights the dramatic reduction in carbon emissions when using recycled PP versus virgin plastic. This reduction, along with the waste diverted from landfills and incineration, makes the sheets a key player in sustainable interior design.

Versatility

The large-format sheets are ideal for a variety of applications in both residential and commercial projects, combining sustainability with high aesthetic value.

Durability

The sheets are not only visually appealing but also offer high durability and functionality, making them suitable for environments that demand tough materials.

Circular Economy

Using waste plastic in production, KNOF actively participates in a circular economy, where waste is continuously reused and repurposed, further reducing environmental impact.

Conclusion

KNOF’s recycled plastic sheets offer an innovative and sustainable solution for the interior design industry, effectively reducing the carbon footprint associated with plastic production. With support the environmental benefits of recycling processes are becoming more apparent, showing how this approach can significantly lower CO2 emissions and promote a more sustainable future. KNOF’s commitment to upcycling waste into valuable materials demonstrates how the construction and design industries can shift toward more sustainable practices without compromising on quality or aesthetics.

If you are interested in diving deep into other products with sustainability properties by Knof, check out this case study featuring Mowall upcycled modular wall solutions.

Discover the full range of Knof on 2050 Materials on app.2050-materials here.

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