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Updated: May 27, 2026
05:11
Inkjet-printed Polyvinyl Alcohol Multilayers
Published on: May 11, 2017
Aqueous Dissolution and Recovery of Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) in Multilayer Film
Pongkhun Prommart1, Sixtus Nzeh1, Pranabesh Sahoo1
1Department of Plastics Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA.
Chemsuschem
|May 25, 2026
Summary
This study optimized solvent-based recycling for PBAT-PLA and PVOH films, demonstrating recovered PVOH
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Chemistry
Background:
- Multilayer films of poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)-polylactic acid (PBAT-PLA) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) are utilized for their biodegradability and barrier properties.
- Current recycling methods for these films often involve toxic solvents.
- Developing eco-friendly recycling processes is crucial for sustainable materials management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize solvent-based (water) dissolution conditions for multilayer PBAT-PLA and PVOH films.
- To investigate the reusability and properties of recovered polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH).
- To assess the feasibility of mechanical recycling for PBAT-PLA blends combined with water-based PVOH recovery.
Main Methods:
- Optimization of dissolution parameters including temperature, time, film size, and stirring speed for PBAT-PLA/PVOH films in water.
- Characterization of recovered PVOH using chemical and mechanical property analysis.
- Comparison of recovered PVOH properties with virgin PVOH.
Main Results:
- Optimized water dissolution conditions were established for efficient film breakdown.
- Recovered PVOH largely maintained its chemical structure but showed reduced flexibility and thermal stability due to additive loss.
- Film dissolution rates were influenced by stirring and film size, with efficient stirring ensuring consistent dissolution regardless of size.
Conclusions:
- Water-based dissolution is a viable method for recycling PBAT-PLA/PVOH multilayer films, avoiding toxic solvents.
- Recovered PVOH can be reused, though its properties are affected by additive loss, necessitating further research for property restoration.
- This approach supports the mechanical recycling of PBAT-PLA blends and the sustainable recovery of PVOH.
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