Hansgrohe’s new electrohydraulic recycling process marks a significant advance in sustainability solutions for the plumbing industry, tackling the long‑standing problem of mixed‑material waste from chrome‑plated plastic components.
How the shockwave technology works
Traditional recycling of galvanized parts focuses on extracting metals while leaving plastic residues behind, which often forces manufacturers to downcycle the material. Hansgrohe’s approach, developed by David Zapf, a surface‑technology specialist, partners with ImpulsTec to apply a “shockwave” treatment that separates metal and plastic with high purity.
The three‑step method starts with shredding and screening the incoming parts. The shredded mix is then dropped into a water bath where a brief electrical pulse triggers a reaction that detaches the metal coating from the plastic substrate. The water is filtered and recirculated, keeping the system closed. Finally, magnets pull the metal particles away, leaving a clean plastic base.
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According to the company, 70 % to 80 % of the recovered material is plastic, while copper, nickel and chrome are sent to specialized processors. The operation runs 250 days a year, eight hours each day.
Impact on waste reduction and circular economy goals
Hansgrohe reports that 98 % of its production waste is now reused, reflecting both material recovery and a reduction in resource extraction, energy consumption, and water use. This marks a significant step towards circular economy goals.
Beyond the immediate benefits for Hansgrohe, the technology could be adapted for other sectors that face similar material‑mix challenges, such as automotive and electronics. The possibility of scaling the process suggests a wider reduction in landfill waste and a shift toward higher‑value recycled inputs.
The real test will be whether other manufacturers adopt the same electrohydraulic method or develop competing solutions. Their response will determine if the approach becomes a standard practice or remains a niche application.
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The new process means factories dealing with chrome‑plated components can expect less downtime for waste handling and potentially lower disposal costs.
Hansgrohe’s initiative also aligns with its corporate sustainability strategy, which emphasizes reducing environmental footprints while maintaining product performance. By reusing almost all of its waste, the company demonstrates a commitment that goes beyond compliance, aiming for measurable impact in its supply chain.
In the broader context, the advancement illustrates how focused engineering solutions can address specific waste streams, offering a template for industry‑wide improvements without relying on vague sustainability pledges.
