New recycling method maintains the quality of plastics - Earth.com

New recycling method maintains the quality of plastics

06-17-2020


New recycling method maintains the quality of plastics Today’s Video of the Day from the University of Bath describes a new technique that can break down plant-based plastics into their original form. This method will allow plastic products to be recycled repeatedly while maintaining their quality. 

“Most plastic is currently recycled using mechanical methods, where they are chipped into granules and melted down before being moulded into something new,” explained Professor Matthew Jones.

“The problem is, melting plastic changes its properties, and reduces the quality, which limits the range of products in which it can be used.” New recycling method maintains the quality of plastics as shown above in the video Recycling of plastics is one method for reducing environmental impact and resource depletion. Fundamentally, high levels of recycling, as with reduction in use, reuse and repair or re-manufacturing can allow for a given level of product service with lower material inputs than would otherwise be required.

“Our method of chemical recycling overcomes this problem by breaking down plastic polymers into their chemical building blocks, so they can be used all over again to make virgin plastic without losing any properties.”

By Chrissy Sexton, Earth.com Staff Writer

Video Credit: University of Bath

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