The plastic recycling process largely depends on sorting plastic waste by grade, as this determines the quality of the recyclate. A major advancement in this area is the use of digital watermarks, which embed nearly invisible information across a product’s entire surface. These hidden technical markings, applied through techniques like printing on packaging or directly incorporating them into the mold, provide a more thorough solution compared to traditional methods. The Digital Watermarks Initiative HolyGrail 2.0, lead by AIM – the European Brands Association and supported by the Alliance to End Plastic Waste, is advancing this innovation using technology from Digimarc Corporation. A pixel-based barcode, applied like a mosaic across the product’s surface, links to a database. When paired with camera-based detection systems in recycling facilities, it enables the identification of specific details such as plastic type, additives, or intended use.
By scanning the voestalpine COFFEE CUP LID with your cell phone, you actually read the Digimarc code embedded within the plastic surface, bringing you to this landing page. You can now scan the voestalpine COFFEE CUP to access the product’s specific landing page or learn more about the technologies behind the voestalpine COFFEE CUP molds here or below.