CQ for more intelligent circular solutions
Our more sustainable RE product series is part of the CQ portfolio of our circular intelligent solutions, which contribute to our vision of becoming fully circular: Transforming the industry to achieve climate neutrality and keep materials in use.
The abbreviation “RE” after the product name stands for “renewable” and represents a major step towards a circular economy – while maintaining performance and quality of conventional polycarbonates.
Bio-circular attributed share is reducing the CO₂ footprint
Makrolon® RE, Bayblend® RE, Makroblend® RE, and Apec® RE are circular solutions from Covestro that address the industry’s requirements for low carbon footprint solutions.
We use certified renewable raw materials, such as biological waste, which have been allocated via mass balancing as well as renewable energy in production. As a result, RE products have up to 89% allocated certified materials and a significantly reduced carbon footprint.
Our resins are drop-in solutions for brands seeking high performance and best-in-class environmental performance.
Unveiling the power of the polycarbonate RE portfolio's sustainable edge
If you are looking for renewable raw materials with a lower carbon footprint, the RE product series portfolio is just what you need. This RE portfolio offers the same high quality and performance as conventional fossil-based polycarbonates.
For example, with the introduction of the RE25 polycarbonates, which contain 25 percent renewable content, we help our customers use more circular material solutions while reducing their carbon footprint.
With our RE portfolio, we aim to offer customers more sustainable products via a direct drop-in solution without compromising on quality.
Our RE series portfolio paves the way for a circular economy – not just as a vision for tomorrow, but as a solution ready to use today.
Our RE series, with an attributed renewable share, includes our Makrolon® RE, Makroblend® RE, Bayblend® RE, and Apec® RE product brands.
RE product properties at a glance:
Transforming industries: RE series' impact today
Our more sustainable CQ material solutions are not just a promise for the future – they are already in use today. Select the industry in which you operate and learn more about industrial applications that are already using our sustainable material solutions to support the circular economy.
Our contribution to the sustainable use of resources is recognized by relevant eco-labels such as EPEAT.
Key Benefits
- CO₂ Reduced: Makrolon® RE is produced using renewable electricity with reduced CO₂ emissions.
- Fast Implementation: Makrolon® RE is a drop-in solution with no need to modify the production line.
- Bio-circular Attributed Share: Our RE polycarbonates use mass balancing to attribute a portion of the product to renewable bio-waste and residues, while maintaining identical production processes and specifications to fossil-based products. This approach represents a key step toward sustainability.
- High Performance: More sustainable Makrolon® RE meets the quality of fossil-based polycarbonates.
FAQ
How is the RE series of renewable-attributed polycarbonates produced?
We produce our RE series polycarbonates using a mass balance approach with renewable-attributed feedstocks. The production processes and specifications are the same as primary fossil-based products, but the feedstocks are traced and mass-balanced to attributed bio-waste and residues, marking a significant step towards sustainability.
What does the term “mass balance” mean?
Mass balance is a chain-of-custody method that traces materials through value chains, allowing for, in this case, the attribution of renewable feedstocks to selected end products. We implement mass balance according to the ISCC PLUS standard.
How do we calculate the PCF (product carbon footprint) of the RE series?
We calculate the PCF of the RE series through a partial product life cycle assessment, covering the stages from resource extraction to the factory gate. We follow the ISO 14040/14044 standard methodology, considering biogenic carbon sequestration and using preliminary supply chain data. It does not apply offsetting measures and does not consider any burdens from a product’s first life.
What are the benefits of using the RE series?
Customers can enjoy several advantages by choosing our RE series. These materials allow for a substantial reduction in their product’s carbon footprint. The RE series materials also come with a sustainability declaration, highlighting the commitment to sustainability and the reduced use of primary fossil-based resources. Moreover, the RE series materials offer the same high performance as standard materials. This means customers won't need to modify existing processes or workflows.
Are the products from the RE series recyclable?
The products from the RE series are as recyclable as conventional fossil-based products. The RE series materials can be recycled through the same processes and workflows as their counterparts made from primary fossil-based raw materials.
What is the difference between circular and bio-circular feedstocks?
Circular feedstocks are derived from the mechanical and/or chemical processing of recyclable materials of non-biological origin. In contrast, bio-circular feedstocks are derived from waste and residues of biological origin. Bio-circular feedstocks do not compete with food production and can enable significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
What is the production capacity for the RE grades?
The capacity for producing the RE grades is the same as the capacity for producing primary fossil-based materials. This means that Covestro can introduce renewable materials into large-scale industry installations today without significant limitations.
Which kind of RE grades are available?
Available RE series products can be identified in our Solutions Center (category plastics, tag “CQ renewable attributed”). If you have any questions regarding RE series products, please reach out to your Covestro sales representative for further assistance. Product Finder | Covestro AG
