Recycled laminated glass has been used in the binder for a new carpet developed by Anker, Devan and Shark Solutions specifically for aviation applications. The flame-retardant carpet’s PVB binder makes use of laminated glass waste from windshields and architectural applications, that would otherwise be sent to landfill. The non-toxic binder contains no chlorine or phthalates and is fully recyclable.
In the search for a more sustainable binder, German carpet manufacturer Anker discovered the PVB from Shark Solutions, a Danish cleantech company focused on giving new life to post-consumer PVB. Anker says the properties of the carpet using PVB binder are the same as those of traditional carpets. It also commented that the market has been looking for this type of solution for a long time and market introduction has already started. Anker will introduce well-known and special styles with PVB and plans to remove traditional carpets in steps, as soon as possible.
Textile expert Devan Chemicals, known for its tailor-made flame-retardant solutions, was called in to develop the flame-retardant back coating to be compliant with Airbus and Boeing safety standards. “Based on many years of experience and competences in customer-related developments, improving recycling rates is getting more and more important,” said Dirk Vanpachtenbeke, research and development manager for flame retardants at Devan. “We are very proud that, together with Anker and Shark Solutions, we can contribute to this rising demand for products that meet the standards of a circular economy solution.”
In other news, Anker and Devan are already working on a new project, which includes Devan’s antimicrobial/viral-reducing technology. Devan recently published test results regarding its Bi-ome technology’s effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses. The company reported that in independent testing, Bi-ome reduced viruses including SARS-COV-2 by 99% and higher on unwashed samples, and by 98.5% after 25 wash cycles. This technology was recognised with a 2020 European Technology Innovation Leadership Award from Frost & Sullivan.
