Flo Group and Versalis have launched R-Hybrid, the first vending cup made from post-consumer recycled polystyrene (rPS). The cup is made with an ABA multilayer, sandwich-type structure, where the inner layer contains r-PS from the Versalis-Revive PS series, and the outer layer contains virgin PS.

R-Hybrid is recyclable and has a reduced carbon footprint compared to traditional vending cups. The cup will be presented at Plast, the International Exhibition for the Plastics and Rubber Industry, from 5 to 8 September 2023.

“The R-Hybrid project is strategic because it finally opens the door to the reuse of polystyrene in food containers and ensures that it retains its original value,”

said Erika Simonazzi, Marketing Manager of the Flo Group.

“There are also numerous advantages offered by the new R-Hybrid cups as an even more sustainable solution than the traditional Hybrid, of which they are the natural technological evolution. The new R-Hybrid combines the benefits of a reduced carbon footprint and the effective reuse of post-consumer plastic that is put back into circulation through the creation of new cups.”

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“Our goal is to produce and market increasingly sustainable products,”

said Claudio Bilotti, Head of Styrene and Polystyrene Marketing at Versalis (Eni).

“Recycled products have a reduced CO2 impact and allow the use of a valuable feedstock such as post-consumer plastics, as well as of local resources.”

Overall, R-Hybrid is a significant step forward in the development of sustainable food packaging. The cup is made with recycled materials, is recyclable itself, and has a reduced carbon footprint. This makes it a more environmentally friendly option than traditional vending cups.

Here are some additional details about R-Hybrid:

• The cup is made with an ABA multilayer, sandwich-type structure, which provides strength and durability.
• The inner layer of the cup is made from r-PS, which is a recycled form of polystyrene.
• The outer layer of the cup is made from virgin PS, which acts as a safe functional barrier.
• R-Hybrid is recyclable, so it can be disposed of properly and reused.
• R-Hybrid has a reduced carbon footprint compared to traditional vending cups.

The launch of R-Hybrid is a major milestone in the development of sustainable food packaging. The cup is a more environmentally friendly option than traditional vending cups, and it is a significant step towards a circular economy for plastics.