Tool for identification of plastic materials

The Quality Programme for the Chemical Value Chain- GQSP Colombia and the Plastics and Rubber Research and Training Institute (ICIPC by its acronym in Spanish), presented the updated version of Polyguess, an application that allows the identification of different plastic materials used in the chemical industry, specifically in the cosmetics, toiletry, oils, paints and agrochemicals sectors.

The recovery and reuse of plastic packaging are one of the main challenges for the industry. The correct identification of the polymer families and their classification are the first step towards an adequate valorization of these residues and their reintegration in the productive processes. During the launching event, experts of the ICIPC performed real-time physical and chemical tests on packaging made of different materials to demonstrate how this tool works. This application guides the user in the identification of different polymers through quick and easy tests.

“Polyguess is a rapid material family identification solution that offers the opportunity to strengthen the countries’ recycling chain. It is an interactive tool… with which we will be able to increase the knowledge of recyclers and collectors in the identification of types of plastics” said Alejandro Serna Escobar, Associate Research Consultant from the ICIPC.

Designed under the learn-by-play methodology, the updated version of Polyguess arrives as a practical and technological solution oriented to the personnel involved in the recycling business. This solution contributes to the reduction of costs associated with the identification of materials in the site and the strengthening of the chain to obtain materials suitable for reincorporation.

The application is available for IOS and Android through PlayStore and App Store, and once downloaded it does not require Wi-Fi or mobile data for its operation.

The GQSP Colombia is one of the 12 country projects of the Global Quality and Standards Programme, it is implemented by UNIDO and financed by Switzerland, through its State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism through Colombia Productiva.

For more information contact Juan Pablo Diaz-Castillo (j.diaz-castillo [at] unido.org (j[dot]diaz-castillo[at]unido[dot]org))