TR’s Sustainable Plastic Fasteners: Durable & Eco-Friendly

TR, part of the Trifast plc group and a specialist in engineering, manufacturing and supply chain solutions, unveils the development of a range of sustainable plastic fasteners and components produced using 100% recycled nylon.

Creds: TR Fastenings
Creds: TR Fastenings

Following a comprehensive R&D programme, TR’s new product line has demonstrated robust mechanical performance, whilst delivering up to a 90% reduction in raw material CO₂ emissions compared to prime-grade counterparts.

Rising Demand for Eco-Efficient Components 

As environmental legislation and design standards evolve, particularly in sectors such as lighting, power, data and water infrastructure, the demand for durable, eco-efficient components is rising. Yet the global sustainable plastics market remains dominated by single-use applications. TR has identified a critical gap and opportunity in engineered fasteners.

Thorough Trials Ensure High Performance

TR conducted detailed material research, mechanical property analysis, moulding trials, and accelerated heat ageing tests on several materials. The standout performer was a 100% recycled nylon proven to deliver processability and mechanical characteristics on par with prime materials, while offering up to a 90% reduction in CO₂ emissions.

Trials were conducted on a range of products, including:

  • Cable Ties, Fir Tree Mount
  • Push Lock Rivets
  • Drive Fasteners
  • Wire Saddles
  • Snap Rivets
  • Fir Tree Clips
  • Threaded Pillars

These components are commonly used across smart infrastructure applications, from securing data cabling to fastening control systems and enclosures.

Sustainability at the Core of Design

Andrew Fletcher, Head of Plastics & Rubber (Commercial & Technical) at TR, commented: “We’ve achieved outstanding results with our sustainable plastic fasteners, not only matching performance requirements but also offering a credible path to net zero. This initiative sits at the heart of our strategy to support our customers with engineering-led, environmentally responsible solutions.

Ready for Commercial Launch and Collaboration 

Following successful production trials, the recycled nylon parts are now undergoing final assessments for commercial launch. TR invites design and production engineers to engage with its technical teams to explore integration options and sample testing.

Looking Ahead 

TR continues to lead material innovation for the smart infrastructure sector and is actively exploring enhancement to flammability ratings and further expansion of its sustainable plastic fasteners portfolio.