Mechanical tests & material analysis on recycled samples – A case from Aarhus river
Plastic collected from rivers is often seen as waste, but it can also be a resource.
This report from the Circular Ocean-bound Plastic project, carried out by our partner, Plast Center Denmark, provides scientific evidence that recycled polypropylene recovered from the Aarhus River can potentially retain functional material properties suitable for reuse. Through comprehensive mechanical and thermal testing, recycled polypropylene collected from the Aarhus River was compared with virgin materials and 50/50 blended alternatives. The results show that while recycled material exhibits some reduced oxidative stability, many core properties – including density, hardness, and thermal performance – remain comparable to virgin plastics. The oxidative stability can be improved with a 50/50 blend of recovered and virgin plastics, but does not reach the level of pure virgin plastic. However, the report provides scientific evidence that ocean-bound plastic has the potential to be more than just waste and recyling it can play a meaningful role in a circular economy.
The findings support informed decision-making on reuse pathways for ocean-bound plastics in industrial applications.
Download the full report below: