This invention describes an apparatus, system, and method for the melt-mixing of waste thermoplastic polymers and inorganic particulate fillers to manufacture polymer composites under laboratory conditions. The apparatus is designed as a single screw extruder with a substantial batch volume capacity ranging from 30 cc to 50 cc and can process filler concentrations from 0-70% by weight. Key components include a housing, barrel plates, a cylindrical screw channel, a recirculation channel, an extruder screw with transport and mixing sections, a feed hopper unit, cartridge heating units, a die channel, and thermocouples. This design aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of waste material processing, offering a significant advancement in environmental management and polymer composite manufacturing.
- Cost Efficient: Lower fabrication cost
- Large Batch Volume Capacity: Capable of processing batch volumes in the range of 30 cc to 50 cc
- High Filler Concentration: Can handle filler concentrations up to 70% by weight
- Enhanced Mixing Efficiency: Incorporates a recirculation channel for uniform mixing
- Adaptability: Suitable for a variety of waste thermoplastic polymers and inorganic particulate fillers
- Reduced Thermal Degradation: Diamond mixing pins help to minimize thermal-induced degradation during processing
A pilot-scale recycling plant has been built with the GolDN extruder as the central apparatus. This facility includes capabilities for shredding, pre-heating, and conveying, allowing complete waste plastic to product conversion. Additionally, researchers have developed a supporting thermogravimetric analyzer with a large 200g sample size, specifically for testing the composites produced by GolDN. This analyzer incorporates material heterogeneity.
A pilot-scale recycling plant with a GolDN extruder, as central apparatus, has been built. Additional capabilities like shredding, pre-heating, and conveying allow complete waste plastic to product conversion.
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The apparatus and method address significant environmental issues by providing a sustainable way to manage and repurpose waste plastics and inorganic fillers. This innovation can reduce pollution and mitigate health risks associated with improper waste disposal.
Waste Management, Polymer and Plastic Manufacturing, Environmental Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Recycling Industry
- Materials Engineering: Development of new composite materials with varied applications
- Industrial Waste Utilization: Efficiently processing industrial waste materials into reusable composite
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