DIBOND® FIVE-DOT-MISSION
DIBOND®, the original aluminium composite panel for the visual communication market, has been assessed in line with our MISSION: TOGETHER. RESPONSIBLE. The product currently achieves a FIVE-DOT classification with a total of 7 points.
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. What is more, all DIBOND® panels comply with the requirements in the current version of the REACH & RoHS directives. Not only is DIBOND® core material recycled, the aluminium used in our aluminium cover sheets is also in part recycled. 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.
As the production of aluminium and the core material polyethylene are energy-intensive, there is embedded fossil carbon in DIBOND®. Using recycled LDPE, has already significantly reduced the CO2 footprint. Changing electricity generating methods for aluminium production is another means of reducing the amount of fossil carbon.
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 -50°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.
DIBOND® is completely recyclable, i.e. both the core material and the aluminium cover sheets are recycled and used to produce new material. There are different methods to separate the material components from the composite. We are the first manufacturer of aluminium composite panels in Europe to have established a recycling system for the return of our aluminium composite materials in Germany in April 2023. Collecting and recycling the material is carried out in cooperation with our strong partners in the A|U|F e.V.. This association of German metal construction companies, system houses and other companies, organizes a closed-loop recycling system to deal with the aluminium used in the window, door and façade sectors. Initially, the option of returning our aluminium composite panels will start in Germany and will soon be extended to include other European countries. If you are interested in collaborating with us, please get in touch with your known 3A Composites contact or send us a message. Download PDF file (German only) here.