Polymer Waste

Polymer Waste

Uses of Polymers: Polystyrene - foam packaging, insulation, model-making. Being replaced with biodegradable materials. Polypropylene - food packaging, dishwasher-safe containers, laboratory equipment: resistant to chemical attack. Polythene - grocery bags, shampoo bottles, toys. Most widely used plastic.

Polymer Waste Polymers make up 10% of municipal waste Landfill space will run out within a decade

Recycling PolymersRecycling involves two stages, sorting and reclamation.

Sorting:Polymer waste must be sorted according to polymer identification codes, in order to be effectively recycled.

Reclamation:The sorted polymers are cut down into flakes and washed to remove any impurities. Cutting the polymers into flakes allows them to be more easily recycled.

Polymers as a fuel source:Polymers are burnt under controlled conditions to produce heat energy. This energy can then be used to generate electricity (as in regular power plants).

Feedstock recycling:Processes are being developed which convert polymers into synthetic gas (hydrogen and carbon monoxide). These gases are used as chemical feedstock, which is converted into useful products/fuel.

Recycling PVC:Recycling PVC is problematic as it has a high chlorine content and the process is uneconomical. Recently PVC has been incinerated to prevent it going to landfills. However this releases toxic fumes, such as acidic hydrogen chloride.

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