Protomax's new technology to convert waste into fire-resistant panels for construction

Protomax Plastics Ltd, an engineering company based in Swansea, Wales, UK, announced last Friday (Sep 26) that it has developed machinery to turn discarded plastic bags, old milk cartons and other waste products into bulletproof, fireproof panels for emergency modular housing and other construction uses.

As explained by Nick Stillwell, the company's Managing Director, this technology has a wide range of applications from construction of modular housing to materials for the automotive, security and defense sectors. The panels can be produced on-site using local waste material. According to Stillwell, since the technology is easily transported and the panels are light and easy to handle, it allows quicker assembly than with traditional building materials.

The panels, which comply with all building regulations, can replace plywood in many other applications such as partitions, walls on construction sites, pallets and roofing. The panels can also be used to make surfboards and kayaks, and can be used by the military for construction of lightweight Kevlar protected panels. Used panels can be reprocessed to form new panels, eliminating landfill.

The Welsh Assembly Government has provided Protomax with assistance to finance the design, development and manufacture of the technology, which is expected to go into production in January 2009.