The Importance of Polymer Recycling

In the last few decades, the increased accumulation of polymer waste, specifically discarded/end-of-life plastics, in natural habitats and landfills across the world has severely affected both human health and the environment. 

Toxic monomers in polymer wastes have caused reproductive problems and cancers. Additionally, different chemicals present in plastic waste, such as flame retardants, bisphenol A, and phthalates, have adversely affected animal and human health, specifically the endocrine system.

Thermoplastic polymers and thermosetting polymers are the major types of solid polymers. Thermoplastic polymers, such as high/low-density polyethylene (HDPE/LDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), can be softened or melted easily using heat for recycling.

Moreover, thermoplastics have secondary weak van der Waal interactions between polymer chains and covalent interactions between monomer molecules. These weak bonds can be broken by heat, leading to changes in the molecular structure. However, thermosetting plastics are non-recyclable due to the permanent chemical changes that occur during their formation.

Thermosetting plastics possess high dimensional and thermal stability, superior thermal and electrical insulating properties, and high rigidity due to the presence of highly cross-linked polymers that have a three-dimensional (3D) network of covalently bonded atoms.

The robust cross-linked structure demonstrates resistance to higher temperatures, resulting in greater thermal stability compared to thermoplastics. Thus, thermosetting plastics cannot be remolded, reformed, or recycled upon heating.

It is extremely important for us to responsibly dispose of these plastics and that is what we do at M&J Recycling Limited.