How We've Recycled Thousands of Pounds of Silicone

At Extreme Molding, sustainability is not just a buzzword but a core principle that shapes our operations and drives our innovations. As a leader in the silicone injection molding industry, we understand the importance of minimizing our environmental impact and promoting a sustainable future. That’s why we’ve recycled thousands of pounds of silicone, demonstrating our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable manufacturing practices.

The Challenge of Silicone Waste

Silicone, known for its durability, flexibility, and resistance to extreme temperatures, is a vital material used in various industries. However, its resilience poses a significant challenge regarding waste management. Traditional recycling methods fall short, leaving a gap in sustainability efforts and contributing to the problem of landfill waste.

Sustainability of Cold Deck Tooling

We have always prioritized waste reduction, even before recycling became part of our sustainability strategy. Our adoption of cold deck tooling is a testament to this commitment. This innovative approach significantly reduces silicone scrap by controlling the injection process, minimizing excess material, and ensuring efficient use of resources. Although the drawbacks include more expensive molds and extended lead times.

The Search for a Solution

Can silicone be recycled? Many companies grapple with this question, recognizing the limitations of waste reduction alone. We sought a comprehensive solution, specifically finding a partner who could not only answer this question but also handle silicone recycling efficiently. 

Our quest led us to Wandaa, a company with over 30 years of experience in recycling all forms of silicone, including cured, uncured, LSR, HCR, RTV, HTV, and silicone fluids. Wandaa's expertise in developing tailored recycling programs for companies of all sizes offered us a path to repurposing silicone waste.

How Does Our Partnership With Wandaa Work?

Once we accumulate several thousand pounds of silicone waste in-house, Wandaa collects it at no charge. Wandaa then transforms this waste into valuable resources, such as alternative products and oils, which can be resold. 

The Silicone Recycling Process

Wandaa's recycling method is a remarkable example of modern technology. It combines intricate mechanical and chemical processes to break down silicone into reusable forms, ensuring that the material can be repurposed without losing its essential properties. This innovative approach supports the concept of a circular economy, where materials like recycled silicone are reused instead of being discarded and sent to a landfill. 

Setting a New Standard for Recycling Silicone

As we continue our partnership with Wandaa, we’re making significant progress in our mission to recycle silicone. This accomplishment holds great importance, not only for us but also for the silicone molding industry as a whole. It serves as a demonstration that sustainable practices can truly make a difference in reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility.

If you are interested in more sustainable production methods, please contact us. We would be happy to help.