Manufacturing trials of the project to develop truck panels using recycled plastics are well advanced

Manufacturing trials of the project to develop truck panels using recycled plastics are well advanced

The results of a UK government-funded project to develop truck panels using recycled plastics will be launched next month. PRW.com reported last year that a consortium had won Ј400,000 (E600,000) of government backing to attach thermoplastic skins to a foam made from post-consumer recycled plastics (PRW.com 18 February 2003).

The Waste and Resources Action Programme, which backed the development, said the lightweight core made of 100% recycled material is sandwiched between two layers of PP. It can be tailored to alter impact resistance and thermal and soundproofing needs. Honeycomb cores can be made from recycled PP, PET or a blend of the two, and foam cores can be made from LDPE.

A spokeswoman said the waste plastic was supplied by reprocessors including Plastic Reclamation and Centriforce Products. Performance and manufacturing trials are well advanced. The consortium is now looking to encourage commercial scale take-up of Panelplus in mainstream truck body applications. Wrap claimed the panels are 60% lighter than GRP plywood panels.

Vehicle hire firm Northgate has added two vehicles to its fleet that use the technology, which it will unveil at next month’s Commercial Vehicles show. Leicester City Council has ordered a van to be delivered by the end of March.