Recycling technique does not require water, processes polystyrene, EPS, ABS

07-Jan-15

A new technology that, unlike most conventional plastic recycling techniques, does not require the use of water and could also be used to process materials such as styrofoam, polystyrene and ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) has been developed by researchers from AK Inovex. The technology, developed by founder Marco Adame, claims that it can process over 90% of plastic types without producing waste water. In addition, they claim that is can cut production cost by 50% without reducing the overall quality of the recycles plastic pellets by avoiding severe temperature changes. The traditional process involves washing and grinding of waste plastic, that makes it hygroscopic, so it has to be dehydrated so that it can be crystallized. This process requires applying heat at 180 degrees Celsius and then cooling the material with water. The new AK Inovex process, however, performs these steps without water, instead going directly to the formation of the recycled beads. As a result, the company said that 50% less energy consumption is used, and less physical space is required to perform the operation. The company claims better quality of recycled pellets and a more profitable recycling process. Adame said that AK Inovex currently has “a pending patent registration of the three technologies that integrate the development, which are responsible for cooling the plastic through contact with special walls and form the plastic beads.” The technology can process any type of plastic, including styrofoam, polystyrene, PET and ABS.