Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and Polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) are part of the molecules that have been used in great quantities to add flame retardant properties to electric and electronic plastic equipment. The European directive on waste treatment (2012/19/UE) imposes a selective treatment on plastics containing brominated flame retardants (RFB), after extraction of non-brominated plastics. These plastics cannot be recycled, buried or exported without a prior treatment guaranteeing that the targeted molecules have been eliminated.

To our knowledge, there is no industrial procedure to efficiently decontaminate brominated plastic waste. The combination of the unique competences of CREPIM, the  Université Lille 1/CNRS, Centexbel-VKC and MATERIANOVA, will result in a new technology, which principle was patented by the first two partners in order to support the companies in charge of treating brominated plastic waste. 

VALBREE proposes an innovative pilot demonstrator based on UV radiation. The prototype that has been tested on several types of resins will be adapted to suit the needs of the sector.

The technology will mean a major breakthrough in WEEE treatment and allow the region to treat and valorise WEEE and brominated plastic waste streams in a cost-effective way.