Heinz Herbst

Mechanical recycling of postused high-density polyethylene crates using the restabilization technique. I. Influence of reprocessing

A remelting–restabilization technique was applied for the recycling of postused, yellow-pigmented high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottle crates. Multiple extrusion cycles procedure, at different reprocessing temperatures, was performed for monitoring the processing stability of the restabilized and nonrestabilized material as reference. In addition, mechanical properties measurements were carried out, to study further the effect of restabilization on the performance of the recycled material. Finally, repigmentation was used to investigate the role of new pigments on the final recycled product. The results illustrate that restabilization of postused crates leads to careful reprocessing without severe degradation, which is an essential prerequisite for reuse in the original application.

Upgrading of Recyclates — The Solution for High Value Applications: Restabilization and Repair

For the plastic waste management the material recycling is of particular interest. However, it is important that the recyclate can compete with the virgin resins in higher value added applications. The remaining stabilizer residues in post consumer recyclates are often insufficient for new and often changed end-use applications. This paper discusses importance of the recyclates stabilization, considering their processing and end-use, e.g., in such demanding applications as in the automotive, construction or packaging industry.