Axion Polymers (Manchester / UK; www.axiongroup.co.uk) has re-formulated its recycled ABS polymer product "Axpoly ABS52" to give improved physical properties and a surface finish suitable for diverse applications, from corner supports in window frames to furniture component parts. According to the company, the new grade, "ABS52 1003", has a higher impact strength and a shinier, deeper-black finish.

ABS52 1003 is suitable for durable goods where higher strength and aesthetics are important customer requirements. Applications include furniture products and assembly parts for the construction sector, as well as a wide range of components for electrical goods. Recovered from the non-metallic waste parts of end-of-life vehicles, the Axpoly rABS resins deliver a carbon footprint saving of around 90% over virgin material, says Axion.

Axion director Keith Freegard said further investment would be made in staff and product development over the coming months. "Our next priority is to focus on getting higher impact strengths for even tougher applications," Freegard said, noting that after record sales in October and November 2017, the company hopes to continue its profitable growth trend. From early 2018 he expects to add more grades to Axion’s ABS range.

The UK-based company has also launched a "Design for Recycling" service to help the plastic packaging value chain ensure that packaging has been optimised for end of life, in addition to maintaining its main function of product protection. The service is aimed at the food and beverage supply chain, including packaging designers, food manufacturers, brand owners and retailers. Axion says brand owners can take action now on packaging designs in order to be prepared for anticipated issues, such as a push on producer responsibility that requires packaging to be collected and recycled.