Sorting Technology: “Viewing AI object recognition in isolation is too narrow a perspective”

Trends in the Circular Economy "Looking at AI object recognition in isolation doesn't tell the whole story"

2026-07-31 The interview was conducted by Melanie Ehrhardt 5 min Reading Time

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What role does AI play in sorting technology today—and what are its limitations? Andreas Hanus, Head of AI Development at Sesotec, explains why powerful AI encompasses far more than just object recognition and what matters most in its practical application.

Andreas Hanus, Head of AI Development at Sesotec: “AI will not replace traditional sorting technology, but will intelligently enhance it.”(Bild: Sesotec) — Andreas Hanus, Head of AI Development at Sesotec: “AI will not replace traditional sorting technology, but will intelligently enhance it.”
(Bild: Sesotec)

In sorting technology, artificial intelligence (AI) represents the logical next step in the evolution of established methods—such as near-infrared spectroscopy, where AI makes material identification significantly more precise. Particularly with multilayer packaging in the PET sector, where different plastic layers have traditionally been difficult to distinguish, AI detects subtle differences much more reliably.

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Date: 08.12.2025

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