Explanatory paper on Microplastics and Interleavants in the flat glass sector

Explanatory paper on Microplastics and Interleavants in the flat glass sector
Photo source
Glass for Europe

Date: 26 February 2024

Glass for Europe issues this explanatory paper to bring clarity to all actors in the flat glass value chain about the use of interleaving polymer powders in the flat glass sector.

The European Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 of 25 September 2023 ‘restricting synthetic polymer microparticles on their own or intentionally added to mixtures’ entered into force in October 2023. Its purpose is to ban the placing on the market of mixtures containing synthetic polymer microplastics. The ban from placing on the market does not apply to products ‘for use at industrial sites’ and for certain specific applications.

Observing a lot of confusing communication around this EC regulation, Glass for Europe issues this explanatory paper to bring clarity to all actors in the flat glass value chain about the use of interleaving polymer powders in the flat glass sector. Glass for Europe recalls the following:

  • In the flat glass sector, interleavants are used exclusively at industrial sites therefore the placing on the market and the sector’s use of interleavant polymer powders is permitted by the EC Regulation.
  • As part of the EC Regulation, a set of obligations are created falling upon suppliers and users of these interleavants. Flat glass manufacturers members of Glass for Europe are already working with both upstream suppliers and downstream users to ensure full conformity.

Glass for Europe and its members are committed to sustainable practices, including a substitution of microplastic interleavant technology once a substitute has been technically approved and is ready for wide-scale implementation.

Check out our position paper here.

600450 Explanatory paper on Microplastics and Interleavants in the flat glass sector glassonweb.com

Others also read

The cutting of thin glass is extremely demanding! That’s why HEGLA has designed a Galactic float glass cutting system specially for the needs of thin glass.
In recent months, Glass for Europe’s environment experts have worked on a harmonised definition of recycled content for flat glass.
With its state-of-the-art ovens -all made in Italy- and a deep commitment to on-site support, TK is redefining global glass processing.
The EU Council has just adopted its General Approach on the End‑of‑Life Vehicles Regulation, setting mandatory targets to dramatically improve the recovery and recycling of automotive glass.
Folienwerk Wolfen’s 44.2 laminated glass with evguard® interlayer has earned top fire performance certifications, marking a key milestone in glass safety and reliability.
Glass Performance Days 2025 in Tampere saw the Glass for Europe secretariat engage value‑chain representatives and share updates on key Brussels legislation.

Add new comment

From industry

Ottergemsesteenweg 707-Zuid
9000 Ghent
Belgium

Pol. Ind. Penapurreira Parcela C4-B,
15320 As Pontes de García Rodríguez A Coruña
Spain

Via per Monastier, 4
31056 Vallio di Roncade TV
Italy

İçmeler Mah. D-100 Karayolu Cad. No:44A,
34947 Tuzla,/İstanbul
Turkey