Research and Development
Fibre Circle has initiated research projects at the universities of Stellenbosch and the Witwatersrand through which the graduates are working towards their Masters or PhD degrees. This work is co-funded by Fibre Circle and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) as part of the third round of Sector Innovation Fund.
Our research activities aim to facilitate the collection and recycling of fibre-based products, and contribute to the circular economy by diverting paper and paper packaging from landfill and supporting and creating secondary markets.
RESEARCH PROJECTS
RESEARCH PROJECT 1
Reactor studies to measure decay factors of paper products under anaerobic conditions
Thaakira Jabaar, Stellenbosch University
RESEARCH PROJECT 2
Impact of repulping processes on chemical contamination in recycled fibre streams
Bhekisisa Masondo, Stellenbosch University
RESEARCH PROJECT 3
How fibre-based packaging can be enhanced using biobased films with bioactive compounds and biosensors for climacteric fruits
Vejonepher Baard and Zamokuhle Ngcoko, Stellenbosch University
RESEARCH PROJECT 4
Lifecycle analysis (LCA) for paper products
Edwin Botha, University of the Witwatersrand
RESEARCH PROJECT 5
Recyclability testing pilot plant
An exciting development is the testing of recyclability of more complex paper-based materials with the commissioning of a new pilot plant. This will inform the development of on-pack recycling and environmental labelling, and support the design for recycling.