Controlling VOCs

Environmentally responsible manufacturing facilities utilize state of the art Regenerative Thermal Oxidizers (RTOs) to eliminate the emission of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), making their production facilities compliant. Thermal oxidizers destroy air toxins and VOCs that are discharged in industrial process exhausts. RTOs achieve VOC with Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) regulations destruction through the process of high temperature thermal oxidation. The RTO process which eliminates VOCs also generates energy that can be used to heat the manufacturing facilities. Recycled water can be used to provide the manufacturing process equipment cooling. This closed loop system prevents thousands of gallons of water from going down the drain every day.

Recycling

FRP share issues and concerns surrounding plastic waste disposal and recycling. Because they are derived from polymers and monomers that often cannot be separated and returned to their virgin states, plastics are challenging to recycle. Not all plastics can be recycled for re-use. Some experts claim only 20 to 30 percent of plastics can be material recycled at all. Beyond those concerns, FRP contain fibers that are difficult to remove from the matrix and preserve for re-use. In short, FRP are inherently difficult to separate into fiber and matrix, and the matrix itself is challenging to divide into separate usable plastic, polymers, and monomers. However, it should be noted that FRP often offer savings in energy and cost in comparison to other materials, and their durability precludes the necessity of frequent replacement - all of which have environmental value. With the advent of new more environmentally friendly matrices such as bioplastics and UV-degradable plastics, FRP stand to increase their sustainability quotient.

High-performance Panels

For wall and ceiling panels used in harsh back room environments or in front of house situations where an attractive, sanitary surface is desired, FRP are a solution that is economical and reliable. FRP can be an important part of an architect's palette in designing high-performance, low-maintenance commercial applications.

Crane Composites is the maker of Glasbord, Sequentia, Sanigrid II and a variety of other fiberglass reinforced plastic (frp) composite wall panels. Inspired by the Kemlite tradition, Crane Composites has over 50 years of experience in commercial building products and is the industry leader in commercial frp applications. www.cranecomposites.com