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Plasterboard Recycling Solution Transforming Construction Waste into Valuable Resources
December 21, 2025Groupe Vilbert uses M&K RS514T and AS150M equipment for efficient gypsum recycling in France, meeting AGEC law requirements and creating multiple revenue streams.
Paris, France – Groupe Vilbert, a leading French recycling company has implemented a cutting-edge plasterboard recycling system featuring M&K mobile equipment. This innovative solution transforms gypsum waste into multiple high-value products, achieving exceptional material purity while supporting France’s circular economy objectives under the AGEC law.
Key Results:
- Ultra-clean 0-3mm gypsum fraction suitable for agricultural soil restoration
- Efficient recovery of solid recovered fuel (SRF) and refuse derived fuel (RDF)
- Multi-stage processing system maximising material recovery rates
- Alignment with France’s ambitious EPR regulations for construction materials
The French Plasterboard Recycling Opportunity
France’s AGEC law introduced Extended Producer Responsibility for construction materials in 2020, a world first that economically supports recycling and sets ambitious recovery targets. This regulatory framework has created significant demand for recycled gypsum, with major manufacturers like Saint-Gobain launching plasterboard containing 50% recycled gypsum in 2022.
The environmental imperative is clear: plasterboard in landfills releases toxic hydrogen sulfide gas and methane, a potent greenhouse gas, as bacteria break down the gypsum and paper components. Recycling eliminates these emissions while conserving natural resources.
Intelligent 4-Stage Processing System
Groupe Vilbert’s installation processes mixed plasterboard waste through an optimised workflow that separates materials by size and density, creating five distinct product streams:
Stage 1: Sizing
Tana 40D. 100mm
Stage 2: Screening (M&K RS514T)
The RS514T features a dual-deck configuration with 20mm woven mesh on top and 3mm polyurethane flip flow mats below. This advanced screening technology produces three fractions:
- 0-3mm Ultra-Clean Gypsum: The fine material achieves exceptional purity, making it ideal for agricultural applications. Recycled gypsum works as both fertilizer and soil amendment, loosening compacted soils while adding essential calcium and sulfur nutrients. This premium product commands strong prices in the agricultural market.
- 3-20mm Mixed Material: Transferred to the first AS150M for density separation
- +20mm Oversize: Large fragments sent to the second AS150M
Stage 2: 3-20mm Mid-Size Air Separation (First AS150M)
The 3-20mm fraction undergoes air classification, separating by density:
- Light Fraction (SRF): Paper, cardboard, and lightweight plastics become Solid Recovered Fuel for industrial energy applications, particularly cement kilns and waste-to-energy facilities
- Heavy Fraction: Recovered gypsum particles are either blended with the ultra-clean 0-3mm material for agricultural use or sold to cement manufacturers as a setting retardant. Gypsum adjusts cement setting time, and recycled gypsum serves as an effective replacement for natural gypsum in this application.
Stage 4: +20mm Oversize Processing (Second AS150M)
The +20mm fraction completes the recovery process:
- Light Fraction (RDF): Large combustible materials become Refuse Derived Fuel with higher calorific value, suitable for industrial combustion facilities
- Heavy Fraction: Oversized gypsum pieces are re-shredded and returned to the RS514T, creating a closed-loop system that maximises recovery and minimises waste
Multiple Revenue Streams from Single Waste Source
This simple system transforms plasterboard waste into five profitable products:
- Premium agricultural gypsum (0-3mm ultra-clean)
- Recycled gypsum for cement/plasterboard manufacturing (3-20mm heavy)
- Solid Recovered Fuel – SRF (3-20mm light)
- Refuse Derived Fuel – RDF (+20mm light)
- Recovered ferrous metals (via integrated magnetic separation)
The solution avoids costly landfill fees while generating income. Gypsum is fully and eternally recyclable, making closed-loop recycling possible
Regulatory Compliance and Market Leadership
The M&K Solition positions Groupe Vilbert at the forefront of France’s circular economy transformation. The system provides verified recycling with full traceability, essential for construction companies demonstrating AGEC compliance. As manufacturers increase recycled content requirements, demand for quality recycled gypsum continues to grow.
Why M&K Equipment Delivers Results
The RS514T’s flip flow technology prevents screen blinding with sticky materials while the 3D deck design eliminates contamination. The AS150M air separators provide precision density-based classification with adjustable controls for optimal performance across varying material conditions. Both systems feature mobile designs, allowing operational flexibility and strong asset values.
This combination of regulatory drivers, proven technology, and multiple revenue opportunities makes plasterboard recycling one of the most compelling opportunities in the European waste management sector.
About Groupe Vilbert
Groupe Vilbert specialises in comprehensive recycling services across northern France, including construction waste processing, green waste composting, and aggregate production. The family-owned company combines environmental commitment with commercial expertise to deliver sustainable solutions.
Contact: www.groupe-vilbert.com/recyclage | tp@groupe-vilbert.fr | +33 3 22 93 02 86
M&K is the leading supplier of innovative static, mobile and modular waste recycling and material handling technology combining unparalleled technological manufacturing capabilities with decades of application expertise. Established in 1977, M&K design, manufacture & support static, mobile and modular Shredders, Trommels, Recycling Screens, Star Screens, Conveyors, Picking Cabins, Air Separators, Crushers & Washing Systems.
To learn more, click here, for a no obligation discovery call book a time here, or call/What’s App now on +447786561002.
