Foamex is one of those magic materials that can be used for almost everything, at least in the display marketing world it can. You’ll find it being used for all kinds of signage, banners, retail displays and exhibition stands. It is a material that truly delivers on its range of functionality, but did you know it’s 100% recyclable? In this blog, we are going to be exploring the recycling Foamex process, look into ways it can be reused (even when printed on) and take into how you can make eco-friendly choices when printing.
What is Foamex?
Imagine a material that is super lightweight, flexible and can be used for almost anything… Enter Foamex. It’s a rigid foam board that is made from PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), which creates a smooth surface that makes Foamex ideal for printing. Choose from a variety of thicknesses, cut it into any shape or size of your choosing, and use it for both indoor and outdoor displays, you name it. Foamex really is the all-rounder of signage materials.
Is Recycling Foamex Possible?
Recycling Foamex isn’t just 100% possible, it’s the smart and sustainable choice, as it isn’t a biodegradable material. Recycling the material is an absolute must and here is how the process works –
Collection & Cleaning: Once the boards have served their purpose, they need to be collected. However, it is essential you keep them clean and free from anything that might contaminate it. We would suggest you have a specific storage bin for your Foamex waste. This is to make sure there is a clean start to the recycling process.
Grinding: After this, the boards will be sent to a recycling facility. This is where the real transformation will begin! The boards are shredded into smaller pieces and then ground into pellets of flakes. It turns bulky boards into manageable particles, setting the stage for the next step.
Melting and Repurposing: Now, begins the melting stage. Those pellets and flakes we just spoke about? They are heated to a molten state. Then, they are moulded into new shapes or fresh sheets. The circle of life continues and they are ready to be made into new products!
Creating New Products: Finally, recycled Foamex material is used in new forms, boards, piping, and window frames – these are just a few examples. We did mention how versatile Foamex is!
Reusing Foamex
The recycling Foamex journey is a lengthy one, most don’t bother and unfortunately, this means a large amount of Foamex ends up in a landfill. In this section of the blog, we’re going to show you some recycling alternatives and how you can reuse your Foamex instead.
Reapply Vinyl: Freshen up your Foamex boards! Apply a new layer of vinyl over your old design. Updating your design is a simple but super effective way to expand the lifespan, it’s also cost-effective and keeps your board looking brand new.
Donate: Think community. Schools, charities and local artist know of great ways to to put Foamex to use. Donating your scrap boards means they’ll be repurposed in creative ways or for educational projects, preventing waste.
Print Responsibly: If you are frequently attending events or exhibitions, then think about this when printing your Foamex. Futureproof and look after your designs so they can be used time and time again. Save costs and only order when you have to!
Recycling Foamex with Eco-Friendly Latex Ink
Discount Displays enhance the sustainability of Foamex one step further, with the use of eco-friendly latex ink in the printing process. Here are just some of the benefits:
Non-Toxic and Safe: Latex inks are water-based and free from harmful chemicals, making them a safer choice for the environment.
High-Quality: Latex inks provide vibrant, long-lasting prints that are resistant to fading and bad weather conditions.
Easier Recycling: Unlike traditional inks, latex inks do not affect the Foamex recycling process.
You can read more about the differences in inks here.
Conclusion
So there you have it, you know how Foamex can be recycled, the best ways to reuse it and the most eco-friendly way to print on it! Foamex really does stand out as a sustainable solution for displays if recycling and repurposing options are put into action.
For more detailed information on the PVC recycling process or Plastic Recycling, check out these resources
