Solving problems with biobased, sustainable PLA and recyclability of PET for high-value applications via solid-state shear pulverization

John M. Torkelson, Philip J. Brunner, Cynthia Pierre, Alexander Millard-Swan, Kevin Pukala

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Abstract:Solid-state shear pulverization (SSSP) can lead to in situ mechanochemistry and enhanced dispersion relative to melt-state processes. SSSP of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) results in low levels of branching and enhanced dispersion of heterogeneous nuclei, leading to increased melt viscosity and crystallizability, providing a solution to the problem of recycling PET for high-value applications. (PET undergoes molecular weight reduction during melt processing.) Adding 1 wt% microcrystalline cellulose to poly(lactic acid) (PLA) via SSSP can lead to major enhancements in crystallizability and materials with increased heat distortion temperature relative to neat PLA.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication68th Annual Technical Conference of the Society of Plastics Engineers 2010, ANTEC 2010
Pages1481-1485
Number of pages5
StatePublished - 2010
Event68th Annual Technical Conference of the Society of Plastics Engineers 2010, ANTEC 2010 - Orlando, FL, United States
Duration: May 16 2010May 20 2010

Publication series

NameAnnual Technical Conference - ANTEC, Conference Proceedings
Volume2

Other

Other68th Annual Technical Conference of the Society of Plastics Engineers 2010, ANTEC 2010
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityOrlando, FL
Period5/16/105/20/10

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemical Engineering
  • Polymers and Plastics

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