INDAR technology: Revolutionising debonding and stripping for recycling applications
Applus+ Rescoll has developed an innovative debonding technology called INDAR, designed to significantly reduce waste and enhance the recyclability of bonded or painted materials. By preventing these multi-materials from ending up in landfills and incinerators, INDAR promotes a far more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to material recycling.
How does INDAR technology work?
The INDAR primer is a groundbreaking solution that enables bonded materials to be debonded on demand through thermal activation. Applied between the substrate and the adhesive, this primer layer can be easily broken when exposed to heat. This allows for quick and efficient removal without damaging the substates.
After several successful proofs of concept in various industries such as automotive, electronics, shoes, aerospace, sport and transportation, Applus+ Rescoll has decided to licence this technology to three global adhesives manufacturers to scale up and commercialize the technology worldwide.
The INDAR primer could also be used as a strippable coating with the same mechanism. After activation, any residue of primer can be effortlessly cleaned using alcohol, preserving the substrate in excellent condition to be reused. This allows easy selective stripping when using multilayers coating systems, like in aerospace for example. This not only facilitates recycling but also helps maintain the quality and the integrity of the materials and components involved.
What are the advantages of INDAR technology?
One of the key benefits of the INDAR primer is that it does not affect the functional properties of the bonded or coated materials. Essential qualities such as mechanical properties and durability are during service life. This makes it possible for the materials to be recycled and used in future applications without compromising on their quality.
The ability to strip coatings on demand reduces the need for harsh chemical treatments typically required in recycling processes, thereby minimising the environmental impact as well as operational costs. This helps promote sustainability and the circular economy to ensure reusable components are not thrown away.
Collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Trucks
Applus+ Rescoll has partnered with Mercedes-Benz Trucks on a debonding project to promote sustainability and reducing the waste associated with bus cockpit parts. This initiative was part of the DECOAT EU Horizon 2020 project which aimed to increase recycling rates and support the sustainability goals of Mercedes Benz Trucks.
The results of this collaboration are expected to substantially reduce waste and recycling costs associated with bus production. The impact is considerable, as it enhances the recyclability of approximately 25,000 buses produced annually. This aligns with Mercedes-Benz Trucks' commitment to environmental responsibility and its efforts to reduce its ecological footprint.
Paving the Way for Sustainable Recycling Innovation
The development of the INDAR technology by Applus+ Rescoll represents a significant advancement in material recycling technology. By enabling easy debonding or stripping of coatings without compromising material properties, INDAR facilitates a more sustainable lifecycle for all kind of materials. Collaborations like the one with Mercedes-Benz Trucks or the licences with different worldwide adhesives manufacturers, highlight the potential industry-wide impact of such innovations, paving the way for more environmentally conscious manufacturing and recycling practices.