Good day Indrasena. Dissolving polyethylene can be problematic depending on the degree of cross-linking. The less cross-linked the polymer, the easier it will dissolve. I used mixtures of several aromatic hydrocarbons to dissolve pieces of polyethylene. The best results were achieved when using a mixture of benzene, toluene, xylene and diethyl ether in equal proportions. Sometimes instead of ether I added chloroform or trichloroethane or trichlorobenzene, depending on what was available. Dissolving is fastest if the temperature is around 30-40 degrees Celsius. Be careful not to use burners or fire for heating, only heating pads. Such a mixture of volatile hydrocarbons and ether is highly explosive, be sure to work under a fume hood away from anything that can initiate a spark (electric or electrostatic). Please do not inhale ether or chloroform ;-)
To remove polyethylene from cup stock paper rolls without degrading the paper, methods such as hydra pulping and solvent extraction can be employed. Innovative solutions like nanofibrillated cellulose can also enhance recyclability by facilitating easier separation of the PE layer.
Hello, Indrasena. On a small scale, in my “ExSream Recycling” experiments, I do this on a small scale. I’d be pleased to speak to you about what I saw on a larger scale, if you care to PM (I think what I was shown was proprietary).
Dissolve polythene with dissolver and scientifically handle other attachments sustainably.
Mechanical delamination is the most effective method to remove the polyethylene layer from cup stock paper rolls without degrading the paper, using precision machines to peel off the layer carefully.
Mechanical Delamination
- Process: Use a specialized mechanical delamination machine that separates the PE layer from the paper through friction or peeling.
- Challenges:Requires precise equipment to avoid damaging the paper. Effectiveness depends on the bond strength between the PE and the paper.
2. Chemical Treatment
- Process: Apply a solvent or solution that weakens the bond between the polyethylene and paper. After softening the PE layer, it can be peeled or scraped off.
- Challenges:Identifying a chemical that dissolves or weakens the PE without affecting the paper is crucial. Environmental and safety considerations for handling chemicals.
3. Thermal Separation
- Process: Heat the material just enough to melt or soften the polyethylene layer without scorching the paper. Once softened, the PE can be mechanically removed.
- Challenges:Precise temperature control is needed to avoid damaging the paper. Risk of uneven separation if the layer thickness varies.
4. Cryogenic Delamination
- Process: Freeze the material using liquid nitrogen or a similar cryogenic process, making the PE brittle. The brittle PE can then be mechanically broken off or separated.
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