Scientists make plastic more degradable under UV light | ScienceDaily

Scientists make plastic more degradable under UV light | ScienceDaily

New CRP: Recycling of Polymer Waste for Structural and Non-Structural Materials by using Ionizing Radiation (F23036) | IAEA

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Dear Aynaz Biuky please do recommend my answer if helpful

Exposing plastic waste to UV (ultraviolet) light alone is generally not an effective method for removing pigments from plastics. UV light can be used for certain purposes, such as breaking down organic contaminants or degrading the surface of plastics, but it typically doesn't target or remove pigments from plastic materials.

To remove pigments from plastics, various chemical and physical processes are employed. These processes may include:

As for references or citations on this topic, you might find relevant information in scientific journals and research papers related to plastic recycling, polymer chemistry, or waste management. A suitable source to explore this topic would be:

Title: "Recent Advances in the Chemical Recycling of Polymers (Plastics) Waste: A Review" Authors: Ali E. Ghoneim, Abbas S. Helal, et al. Journal: Journal of Polymers and the Environment Publication Year: 2019 DOI: 10.1007/s10924-019-01508-9

This review paper discusses various methods, including chemical processes, for recycling plastics, which may involve the removal of pigments. It could provide you with valuable insights into the topic.

Thank you Dr E.A. Gawad

I will check it

Thank you Tobias Makuochukwu Onyia

I recommend it

Here's a general overview of how pigments can be removed from plastic waste through UV exposure:

1. UV light absorption: Plastic materials contain pigments that give them their color. These pigments can absorb UV light, which can lead to chemical reactions within the plastic matrix.

2. Photodegradation: When UV light is absorbed by the plastic, it can initiate a process called photodegradation. This process involves the breaking of chemical bonds within the polymer chains, resulting in the breakdown of the plastic's molecular structure.

3. Pigment degradation: During photodegradation, the chemical bonds of the pigments can also be affected. The UV light can cause the pigments to degrade, leading to a loss of color or fading.

4. Surface effects: UV light primarily affects the surface layers of the plastic waste. Over time, repeated exposure to UV light can cause surface cracks, crazing, or embrittlement, which can further facilitate the removal of pigmented particles.

Thanks Abdulsalam Abdu