Ionic Liquid Potential to Recycle Polymeric Waste: An Experimental Investigation

Abstract

The impact of ionic liquid (IL) solution on the recycling process of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste containers used to store drinking water, with a focus on optimizing the added percentage and processing conditions of IL was studied. Characterization using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nano-indentation tests were performed. Generally, an increase in the degradation temperatures was observed with increasing IL%. Since they were quite comparable, their good thermal stability could be considered. An increase in the hardness was noticed from 0.41 at 0% to 0.45 at a 2% IL solution. A rise in the modulus of elasticity was also observed from 5.5 GPa at 0% to 8 GPa at 2% IL solution. Although there has been some improvement in the properties of the IL blends, limitations such as IL cost and their effective recycling remains a challenge and needs more efforts to fully explore their potential.

Development and Mechano-Chemical Characterization of Polymer Composite Sheets Filled with Silica Microparticles with Potential in Printing Industry

“…Synthetic paper or sheet produced from thermoplastic polymers (virgin or recycled) and fillers and additives form a thin composite film that can be used in a variety of paper-based applications. Since the synthetic composite sheet is a "tree-free" product, it will contribute towards reducing the environmental impact of the paper industry, and its potential can be even increased when using recycled plastics [5].…”

Comprehensive Characterization of Polymeric Composites Reinforced with Silica Microparticles Using Leftover Materials of Fused Filament Fabrication 3D Printing

“…Hence, it is widely preferred to be used in polymer composite materials as a matrix [27]. The recycling of polymeric waste materials is being increasingly studied to achieve a sustainable approach [12][13][14]. Innovative techniques have also been developed to convert thermoset plastics into thermoplastic ones to improve their recycling [15,16].…”