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★Mark us as a preferred sourceSesotec has successfully installed its first VARISORT+ CARBON BLACK system in its technical center. This fully functional MWIR (Mid-Wave Infrared) sorting system bridges the technological gap in the optical sorting of black plastics, identifying material types in the early stages of recycling.
The optical sorting of black plastics has long been a challenge for the recycling industry, but Sesotec’s new technology brings a major breakthrough. At the end of June, the company transferred the first VARISORT+ CARBON BLACK system from production to its own technical center. Due to the high demand seen at the IFAT trade fair, testing of customer applications began immediately.
MWIR Technology and the optical sorting of black plastics
While traditional visible light and Near-Infrared (NIR) systems struggle because black plastics (containing carbon black) absorb the radiation, Mid-Wave-Infrared (MWIR) technology can identify their characteristic spectral signatures. The material is illuminated with mid-wavelength radiation, captured by a precise MWIR sensor. This data is then evaluated using intelligent software, AI models, and Sesotec’s extensive spectral analysis expertise. As a result, plastics such as PE, PP, or ABS can be reliably distinguished, even if they strongly absorb light.
Efficiency in the Early Stages
Previously, separating dark materials was often only possible at much smaller grain sizes, at the fine regrind stage. However, Sesotec’s innovation enables accurate material identification right after coarse pre-shredding, before final shredding occurs. This significantly reduces the overall sorting effort. According to Tobias Eder, Head of Technologies Sorting & Plastics at Sesotec, this system is a crucial milestone that seamlessly integrates into the existing platform, ensuring operators achieve high classification reliability with minimal implementation effort. Real-world testing with customer material streams is currently ongoing at the facility.
FAQ
What is Sesotec’s new development for black plastics?
Sesotec has developed the VARISORT+ CARBON BLACK system, which uses MWIR (Mid-Wave Infrared) technology for the optical sorting of black plastics.
Which plastic types can the machine sort?
The technology can reliably distinguish plastics such as PE, PP, or ABS.
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