Meaning
Cleavage of polymer backbones using heat and chemical agents produces low molecular weight hydrocarbons. The method of thermochemical polymer scission breaks down long-chain plastics into chemical feedstocks. This process is used to treat mixed plastic waste that cannot be separated mechanically.
Degradation Pathways
High temperatures and catalysts break the covalent bonds in polymer chains to yield shorter hydrocarbon molecules. During thermochemical polymer scission, the reaction conditions determine whether the output is gas or liquid. Precise control of the temperature profile minimizes the formation of low-value char.
The resulting liquid fraction can be refined into recycled naphtha.
Recycling Yield
Mixed polyolefin streams are converted into high-value chemical feedstocks through this process. Applying thermochemical polymer scission allows for the recovery of ethylene and propylene monomers. These monomers are then used to manufacture new plastic resins.
This closed-loop approach reduces reliance on fossil oil and lowers the carbon footprint of plastic packaging.
Moulding Application
Resins produced from chemically recycled monomers exhibit no degradation in mechanical properties. Utilizing thermochemical polymer scission ensures that the resulting virgin-grade polymer behaves predictably in high-speed injection moulding. The melt flow index and tensile strength match those of primary fossil-based polymers.
This consistency is essential for producing high-precision molded components with low reject rates. It allows molders to maintain their existing process windows and tooling without costly modifications.
