Lesson 4: RECYCLABILITY AND RECOVERABILITY RATES – Introduction, MATERIAL COMPOSITION and MASS DETERMINATION MP, MD, MM, MTP AND MTE

In this lesson, we will explore the essential concepts of calculating recyclability and recoverability rates in accordance with ISO 22628:2002 standards, including material composition and the determination of various mass parameters.

  1. Introduction to Recyclability and Recoverability Rates
  • International legislation, particularly ISO 22628:2002, defines the method for calculating recyclability and recoverability rates.
  • The calculation involves four distinct steps conducted on a new vehicle: preliminary preparation, dismantling, separation of substances, and non-metal residue treatment.
  • These steps consider the components and materials at each stage to determine the recyclability and recoverability rates.
  1. Material Composition
  • The material composition of vehicles is categorized into seven primary groups: a) Metals b) Polymers (excluding elastomers) c) Elastomers d) Glass e) Liquids (fluids) f) Modified organic natural materials (MONM) like leather, wood, cardboard, or cotton g) Other materials (e.g., mixtures, electronic components) with unspecified composition.
  • Establishing the material composition is a crucial step and is mandatory for obtaining the Approval Certificate.
  • Vehicle manufacturers must submit the material composition along with other required documentation during vehicle testing.
  1. Mass Determination (MP, MD, MM, MTP, AND MTE)

3.1. Preliminary Preparation – Mass Determination MP

  • During this phase, several components and materials are considered, including:
    • All liquids (fluids)
    • Batteries (car batteries)
    • Oil filters
    • Tanks for liquid petroleum gas (LPG)
    • Tanks for compressed natural gas (CNG)
    • Tyres
    • Catalytic converters
  • Liquids encompass various fluids like fuel, engine oil, transmission oil, power steering oil, brake oil, and more.
  • Components and materials considered recoverable or recyclable are weighed to determine mass MP.

3.2. Dismantling – Mass Determination MD

  • Additional components that are potentially reusable or recyclable are considered at this stage based on criteria such as accessibility, assembly technology, approved dismantling technologies, and material composition.
  • Special requirements may apply, including specific approved recycling technologies for recyclable components.
  • Safety and environmental factors are taken into account when assessing reusability.
  • Mass MD is calculated as the sum of all parts that are considered reusable or recyclable.

3.3. Metal Separation – Mass Determination MM

  • This phase focuses on all metals, including ferrous and non-ferrous metals, that were not considered in the previous stages.
  • Both ferrous and non-ferrous metals are considered recyclable.
  • Mass MM is determined by weighing all metals that remain on the vehicle after the previous phases.

3.4. Non-Metallic Residue Treatment – Mass Determination MTP and MTE

  • Non-metallic residues refer to materials not accounted for in the previous stages, making up the non-metallic residue.
  • In this phase, recyclable or recoverable residues are considered.
  • Mass MTP is calculated as the sum of non-metallic residue mass that is deemed recyclable based on approved recycling technologies.
  • Mass MTE is calculated as the sum of remaining masses that could potentially be used for energy renewal after considering MP, MD, MM, and MTP.
  • Technology for energy renewal from polymers and elastomers is globally industrialized, allowing for the recovery of these materials.

Conclusion

  • Understanding recyclability and recoverability rates, as well as the material composition and mass determination process, is crucial for vehicle manufacturers seeking approval and compliance with international standards.
  • These calculations are integral to responsible end-of-life vehicle management and sustainable recycling practices.
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