At LLA Instruments, we’re excited to share early results from a new series of tests using our hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technology to sort mixed plastic samples. The samples—comprising ABS, PP, PS, PA, and other polymers—were supplied by one of our trusted industry partners currently evaluating our system for automated material sorting in recycling environments.

Thanks to the precision and speed of our KUSTA hyperspectral cameras, the system delivered real-time, high-throughput sorting across the VIS, NIR, and SWIR spectral ranges. Even with complex plastic mixtures, KUSTA’s distortion-free imaging ensured no Smile or Keystone effect, delivering exceptional classification accuracy and repeatability.

These results demonstrate the system’s potential to support advanced recycling technologies, where identifying and separating materials quickly and accurately is critical to optimizing value recovery and enabling true circular economy processes.

Why Hyperspectral Imaging Matters in Recycling

Modern recycling operations demand technologies that go beyond conventional methods. Hyperspectral imaging offers a non-contact, non-destructive, and automated solution to identify different polymer types—even when visually similar or contaminated. With growing pressure to improve recycling rates and reduce landfill waste, the need for intelligent sorting technologies has never been greater.

📈 Looking Ahead

We’ll be sharing more data and insights from this collaboration in the coming weeks—stay tuned as we continue to push the boundaries of recycling innovation.

🧪 Interested in Advanced Plastic Sorting?

If you’re working in recycling, materials processing, or waste management and face challenges with mixed material streams, get in touch:

📩 Contact: mail@lla.de
🌐 Learn more: www.lla-instruments.com