Axjo case: XLPE

Utilising waste from power cable production using XLPE

The Greenology Concept is made up of many different parts. One of the most important is helping our customers reduce their carbon footprint. A key initiative has been to work with leading manufacturers and research institutes to develop a method for utilising waste from power cable production using XLPE.

XLPE is PE (polyethylene) which is cross-linked with an additive to improve its properties. This results in scrap that is very difficult to use in a recycling stream. Together with NKT, Borealis, and Swerea IVF, Axjo has managed to succeed throughout the entire value chain. Effective recycling at NKT’s recycling plant, together with use of a sophisticated method in Axjo’s mixing and compounding process in Gislaved, have proved successful. Products are now being developed with a significant XLPE content as an impact modifier. These innovative products have been on the market for over a year, and both cable manufacturers and end-users have been very satisfied with the outcome.

The reuse of 1,000 kg of XLPE provides a saving of 2,000 kg of CO₂, helping our customers become more sustainable and more profitable as the waste does not need to be sent to landfill or incinerated.