Country: Romania
Focus area:Green
Thematic area:
Waste reduction and Recycling Technology , Green & Sustainable materials
TRL phase: TRL 6 - technology demonstrated in relevant environment (Technology development)
Addressed business processes: TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT process
Solution overview
"The Research Centre for Environmental Engineering (RCEEN) at the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca develops solutions for the valorization of by-products generated in the flexible packaging and labeling industry. Using advanced research methodologies and pilot-scale testing, RCEEN supports the sustainable reuse of production waste, creating secondary materials and improving process efficiency.
Main objectives:
-To transform production by-products into valuable secondary materials for industrial applications.
-To promote circular economy practices and reduce environmental impact in manufacturing processes.
-To support companies in adopting sustainable production methods and improving resource efficiency.
-To enhance innovation in eco-friendly processes through research, testing, and process optimization."
Key features
"Key differentiating features of the solution:
1. Novel valorization method – currently, there are no existing solutions that reuse production by-products from the flexible packaging and labeling industry as composite materials through a simple hot-pressing process.
2. Sustainability-oriented innovation – enables waste reduction and promotes circular economy principles by transforming production residues into useful materials.
3. Integrated research and pilot-scale validation – combines laboratory studies with pilot-scale testing to demonstrate the technical and environmental feasibility of the process.
4. Energy- and cost-efficient approach – the hot-pressing method is simple, scalable, and resource-efficient compared to complex recycling technologies.
5. Adaptability to various production contexts – the method can be customized for different waste streams and industrial needs.
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Integration and adaptability in manufacturing environments
Integration and adaptability of the solution:
The proposed solution can be easily integrated into existing manufacturing processes, particularly in cases where companies aim to develop additional, promotional, or sustainable product lines derived from their production by-products. The method requires only minimal adjustments to existing workflows and equipment, making implementation straightforward and cost-effective.
At the same time, the technology can operate as a standalone valorization process, transforming production residues into composite materials through a simple hot-pressing procedure. This dual applicability—both as an integrated extension and as an independent process—makes it highly versatile.
The solution is fully customizable, depending on the intended application and functional requirements of the final composite material. It can also be adapted to different types of industrial waste with similar compositions, expanding its potential use across multiple manufacturing sectors.
Moreover, the process is compatible with standard manufacturing technologies and commonly available equipment, ensuring scalability, low investment needs, and easy adoption by industrial partners seeking to enhance sustainability and resource efficiency.
Implementation support and training for manufacturers
"Implementation and post-implementation support offered by RCEEN
The Research Centre for Environmental Engineering (RCEEN) provides comprehensive support to manufacturing companies during both the implementation and post-implementation stages to ensure the successful adoption of the by-product valorization solution.
I. During implementation, RCEEN provides:
I.1. Technical consultancy and process setup, including defining operating parameters for the hot-pressing procedure, adapting it to specific waste compositions, and ensuring compatibility with existing production systems.
I.2. Material testing and validation, covering laboratory analysis, pilot-scale trials, and optimization of composite material properties for industrial usability.
I.3. Custom process adaptation, enabling integration of the technology either as an additional production line for new products or as an independent valorization process.
I.4. Collaboration with industrial partners to develop pilot applications, define scalability potential, and evaluate environmental and economic impacts.
II. Post-implementation, RCEEN ensures continued support through:
II.1. Training programs and technical workshops for engineers and production staff to ensure safe and efficient operation of the hot-pressing process.
II.2. Access to expert resources, including documentation, case studies, and best-practice guidelines for material reuse and circular economy implementation.
II.3. Continuous monitoring and performance assessment, helping companies refine process parameters and maximize material recovery rates.
II.4. Ongoing consultancy to support further adaptation of the technology to new waste types and to integrate sustainability reporting practices.
These services ensure a sustainable, cost-effective, and scalable adoption of by-product valorization technologies, contributing to the circular economy and green transition within the manufacturing sector."
Sustainability, compliance and certifications in the EU
"Compliance with environmental regulations and industry standards:
The solution is designed in accordance with relevant EU environmental regulations and industry best practices, focusing on waste reduction, circular economy principles, and sustainability in manufacturing processes. While the solution is currently in the research and pilot stage and does not yet hold formal certifications or accreditations, it has been developed with compliance in mind. Future plans include obtaining relevant certifications and validations to formally recognize the performance, safety, and environmental benefits of the technology once implemented at industrial scale."
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