Critical Co-founder and Managing Director Rui Peng says that’s a good problem to have and not a total surprise. As an architecture graduate in 2013 he saw a growing desire among his cohort for sustainable, low carbon materials that were both durable and aesthetically appealing. Just over a decade later, he says the demand for those type of materials has gone global.
Getting in early, Critical also looked for a solution that dealt with the issue of plastic waste. Over several years of research it developed a unique recycling technology that could process any type of used plastic, even if it was contaminated. The process doesn’t use chemical or additives. That waste is then transformed into beautiful Cleanstone panels that come in a range of sizes and thickness. They are used to make furniture and are becoming a go-to material in retail, commercial and hospitality fitouts.
Cleanstone panels are expected to last for more than 20 years and can be recycled again and again. Critical has a buy-back scheme for old Cleanstone which includes a discount on new panels. Offcuts can also be sent back to Critical for recycling.
To meet the growing demand for its products the Critical team is investing in more research and development to continually improve technology and efficiency. It is also looking at ways of making its recycling technology available around the world.