Binghamton-based cement company KLAW Industries will use federal funding to create a new robotic sorting system for recycled glass.
On Friday, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced KLAW Industries would receive $400,000 in federal funding. Earlier this year, the company collaborated with the New York State Department of Transportation for a $21.2 million project in Whitney Point.
KLAW's business model involves using recycled glass to replace about 20% of cement used in the production of concrete. The new system will allow KLAW Industries to take in new sources of glass and keep glass that could be recycled out of landfills.
More: With recycled glass, these Southern Tier teams are shaping the future of concrete
KLAW Industries receives another federal grant
Jacob Kumpon, co-Founder of KLAW Industries, said this grant will help the company process recycled materials and result in more efficient recycling in the area.
KLAW's product, dubbed Pantheon, uses recycled glass they've cleaned and ground into a fine powder to replace cement in a concrete mix. It makes the final product even stronger, Kumpon says — KLAW's website claims it prevents 1000 pounds of carbon emissions for every cement truck used.
According to Kumpon, low-income areas and disadvantaged communities often do not have access to reliable recycling methods, with materials often ending up in landfills. KLAW's goal is to facilitate recycling for those communities locally and statewide.
"That's what this project is focused on — making sure that these materials, which we can use, end up being used for something beneficial," said Kumpon.
According to Schumer, KLAW is the epitome of a innovative company from the Southern Tier, and will benefit both the region's economy and residents.
“With these funds, KLAW will be able to advance its glass sorting capabilities by creating a state-of-the-art robotic sorting system to improve both the processes at glass recycling facilities, and the number of facilities they can service," Schumer said in a news release.
This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: KLAW Industries to improve recycled glass sorting with robotic system