Process for Depolymerizing Recycled Polystyrenes
Case ID:
TEC2021-0107
Web Published:
11/3/2021
Executive Summary
Each year, billions of lbs of polystyrene and styrene copolymers are discarded as waste and very little is recycled. While some technologies have attempted pyrolysis in fluidized bed reactors or solvent processes to convert the polystyrene back to monomer, high costs, long process times and a myriad of reaction products have limited their commercial success. MSU researchers have recently developed a new technology for chemical recycling of polystyrenes that is fast and provides and economical route to monomer recovery.
Description of Technology
This invention is a novel process that involves melt processing of polystyrenes in the presence of selected inexpensive and non toxic catalysts. High yield to monomer is obtained in less than 45 minutes process time.
Benefits
- Rapid degradation back to monomer (85% yield)
- Low gas production
- Enables recycling of waste polystyrene foam, packaging, cups, plates, containers
- Can be used for styrene containing copolymers
- Economical process
Applications
- Recycling polystyrene waste
Patent Status
Patent pending
Licensing Rights
Full licensing rights available
Inventors
Dr. Muhammad Rabnawaz, Dr. Ajmir Khan, Vikash Kumar
TECH ID
TEC2021-0107
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For Information, Contact:
Jon Debling
Technology Manager
Michigan State University
deblingj@msu.edu