German SoliD-Q project combines AI sorting and data to improve PCR quality

A German research collaboration called SoliD-Q is developing AI-based object recognition to sort plastic waste by product type rather than polymer alone, aiming to produce higher-purity post-consumer recyclate. Three partners contribute: WeSort.AI builds the AI sorting technology, Hoffmann + Voss turns the sorted fractions into recycled compounds, and SKZ develops digital traceability infrastructure that generates a batch-specific quality certificate compatible with future digital product passports.

Why this mattersObject-level sorting and batch traceability could let converters and brand owners use PCR in more demanding applications with greater confidence in consistency and documentation.

• The SoliD-Q project involves three German partners: WeSort.AI, Hoffmann + Voss and SKZ.
• WeSort.AI is developing AI-based object recognition to separate plastic waste by product type, for example HDPE shampoo bottles from HDPE food packaging.
• Hoffmann + Voss uses the resulting sorted fractions to produce recycled compounds, adjusting compounding parameters based on incoming material data.
• SKZ is building digital infrastructure to generate a batch-specific digital quality certificate, designed to be compatible with digital product passport systems.
• The project targets more consistent, application-specific PCR grades rather than broadly defined recycled streams.

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