Windshields cannot be recycled? Why not?

[GP2]

Hi Guys,

I read that windshields can't be recycled. Does anyone know why that is? I just know one of my customers will ask The statement was in the NWRA "Your guide to Windshield repair" sheet sent in my promo pack. Thanks!

[repare-brise]

GP2

They can be recycled, but at very high cost. The reason is the seperation of the PVB and the glass. The PVB layer is designed to retain the glass, this same design caracteristic is what makes recycling expensive.

Merci

[GP2]

I found this:

"Among the automotive parts not typically recycled are windshields. While recycling glass would seem to be an easy enough proposition that takes advantage of an established market, windshield glass poses special problems not found with glass jars or bottles.

The plastic laminates that help make windshield glass tougher and more protective of light and UV rays also means standard glass recycling methods of simply reducing the glass into cullet cannot be used.

Currently, auto dismantlers may harvest windshields in good condition for re-use, but the rest are simply crushed and sent through the hammermill to make up part of the auto shredder residue pile. Further, auto repair shops send a separate significant-sized stream of windshield glass to landfills throughout North America."

More cost and procedure effective was of recycling windshields are being explored now, but are still a ways off.

[StarQuest]

GP2,

Here's a link for ya! http://www.andelaproducts.com/products/stripper.html