Recycled content

We have already completely replaced virgin materials in the core of our DIBOND® panels with recycled LDPE, and this means we are able to make an important contribution to closed-loop recycling. By using recycled core material, approximately 6,700 metric tons of LDPE virgin material can be saved every year. We work with selected European suppliers to source recycled LDPE of a consistently high quality. Continuous quality assurance is an essential part of this process for us. The DIBOND® core material is recycled. In addition, the aluminium used for our cover sheets also contains recycled content and for DIBOND®re, the cover sheets are made entirely from recycled aluminium. Aluminium is one of the materials best suited to recycling because regardless of how often it is recycled, there are no detrimental effects on its material properties. We intend to increase the proportion of recycled aluminium in our cover sheets in the future.

CO₂ Footprint

As the production of aluminium and the core material polyethylene are energy-intensive, there is embedded fossil carbon in DIBOND®. By using recycled LDPE, the CO₂ footprint has already been significantly reduced. With DIBOND®re, which thanks to a recycled content of over 95% improves the CO₂ footprint by at least 40% compared to standard DIBOND®, we are setting a new benchmark. The footprint can be further optimised through the type of electricity used in aluminium production and the increasing share of secondary aluminium.

Product life cycle

Our high-quality, durable DIBOND® panels are used for long-term indoor and outdoor applications. In terms of weather resistance, the full range of selection criteria advocate the use of DIBOND®. The panels are temperature resistant from -30°C to +80°C, waterproof and UV-resistant. The composite structure of a DIBOND® panel comprises aluminium cover sheets which are particularly corrosion resistant. Depending on where the panel is installed, customers report a service life of up to 20 years.

Recyclability

DIBOND® aluminium composite panels can be processed for recycling after use. During the recycling process, the aluminium cover sheets and the core material are separated and prepared for further material recovery. There are different methods to separate the material components from the composite. In April 2023, 3A Composites established a take-back system for aluminium composite materials in Germany. Collection and recycling are carried out in cooperation with partners of A|U|F e.V., an association of German metal construction companies, system houses and other companies that organises the collection and recycling of aluminium from the window, door and façade sectors.

The take-back service for our aluminium composite panels is currently available in Germany, with an expansion to further European countries planned.

If you are interested in using the take-back service or would like further information, please contact your
3A Composites representative or send us a message.

Further information is available in the PDF file here.