Comprehensive investigation of recycled PVC powder

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Recycling Technology

Background:

• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a widely used plastic, but its recycling presents challenges.
• Offcuts from PVC-coated fabrics offer a potential source for recycled PVC materials.
• Effective characterization of recycled PVC is crucial for its successful industrial application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the morphology and particle size distribution of recycled PVC powder from fabric offcuts.
• To assess the flowability of the recycled PVC powder.
• To evaluate the potential of recycled PVC powder as a substitute for virgin PVC resin in plastisol formulations.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative morphological analysis using optical microscopy.
• Quantitative particle size distribution analysis via optical microscopy and mechanical sieving.
• Flowability assessment using Compressibility Index and Hausner ratio.

Main Results:

• Recycled PVC particles are predominantly non-spherical, with flat and elongated shapes.
• Particle size analysis confirmed most particles are below 600 µm (93.6% optical, 96.39% sieving), with 83.44% between 200-600 µm.
• Flowability tests indicated poor flow characteristics, with a Compressibility Index of 26.84% and a Hausner ratio of 1.37.

Conclusions:

• Recycled PVC powder from fabric offcuts possesses distinct irregular morphology and poor flowability.
• Despite flow challenges, the material's characteristics suggest viability as a partial or full replacement for virgin PVC resin in plastisol applications.
• Further research can optimize processing for this recycled material, promoting sustainable PVC utilization.