New on the road – Planzer tests recyclable truck tarpaulins from FREITAG

From iconic bags to a circular future

While FREITAG is driving forward the vision of a circular tarpaulin, companies such as Bieri Tenta AG and Rivertex are ensuring that this vision becomes a reality. The new recyclable tarpaulin will – like its conventional predecessors – consist of a robust fabric and a water- and dirt-repellent coating. Two main materials have been developed so far: a polyester thermoplastic tarpaulin (PES/TPU) and a monomaterial tarpaulin made of polypropylene (PP/PP).

Conventional truck tarpaulins are often made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is difficult to recycle, causing environmental problems and making it difficult to return it to the material cycle. Although PVC tarpaulins are durable, they are not biodegradable and difficult to break down into their original materials at the end of their service life. The production of PVC also harbours challenges, as the process can release chemicals that are harmful to health and the environment.

Planzer brings the circular tarpaulins onto the road

Our test fleet, consisting of seven trucks and five trailers, is now on the road with these new, specially designed tarpaulins.  Testing under real-world conditions is intended to provide important insights into durability and recyclability and is crucial for assessing the suitability of the tarpaulins for daily use in truck transport. ‘Thanks to the large amount of material, we’ll soon be able to test the downstream bag production steps too,’ says FREITAG.

A step into the future of logistics

For us, this project is an important step towards a more sustainable future. The collaboration with FREITAG demonstrates how the logistics industry can become more sustainable through innovation and partnership.