JSS MAHAVIDYAPEETHA

JSS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY UNIVERSITY

SRI JAYACHAMARAJENDRA COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
JSS TECHNICAL INSTITUTIONS CAMPUS MYSURU - 570 006

NAME USN MARKS

SINCHANA S GOWDA 01JST20EV036
SUSHMITHA C 01JST20EV039
VISHAL BELDAR 01JST20EV045
CHANDAN J 01JCE21EV400
RAJENDRA PRASAD 01JCE21EV403

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING

POLYMER RECYCLING AND VALUE ADDITION
20PT662

UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF:

Dr. AB HEMAVATHI
DEPARTMENT OF PST, SJCE
JSS S&TU MYSURU
HDPE POLYMER STRUCTURE

• HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) is a type of polymer made from the monomer

ethylene. It is a thermoplastic material that is widely used for various applications due
to its excellent properties.

• The molecular structure of HDPE consists of long chains of ethylene monomers, which
are linked together through covalent bonds. These chains are relatively straight and have
a high degree of crystallinity, resulting in a highly dense and rigid structure.

• HDPE is classified as a linear polymer because of the absence of branches in its

structure. This linear structure allows for close packing of the polymer chains, leading to
its high density and strength.

• The repeating unit in HDPE is (-CH2-CH2-), which represents the ethylene monomer.
These repeating units are connected through single covalent bonds, resulting in a linear
chain with a carbon backbone.

• The high density of HDPE arises from the tight packing of its linear chains. The absence
of branches allows for closer intermolecular interactions and a higher degree of
crystallinity. As a result, HDPE has a higher density compared to other types of
polyethylene.

• HDPE is known for its excellent mechanical properties. It has a high tensile strength,
impact resistance, and stiffness, making it suitable for applications that require durability
and strength.

• The linear structure of HDPE also contributes to its chemical resistance. It is highly
resistant to many chemicals, including acids, bases, and solvents. This property makes
HDPE suitable for applications in the chemical industry and for storing and transporting
various substances.
• HDPE has a low moisture absorption rate and is resistant to moisture, making it suitable
for outdoor applications and in environments where water exposure is common.

• Another important characteristic of HDPE is its excellent electrical insulating properties.

It has a high dielectric strength, which makes it suitable for electrical applications such as
cable insulation and electrical conduit.

• HDPE is commonly used in industries such as packaging, construction, automotive, and

agriculture. It is widely used for manufacturing plastic bottles, containers, pipes,
geomembranes, and various molded products.

• The versatility and wide range of applications of HDPE are due to its favorable
combination of properties, including high strength, chemical resistance, electrical
insulating properties, and low moisture absorption.

• Recycling of HDPE is widely practiced due to its favorable properties. It can be easily
melted and reprocessed into new products, contributing to sustainability and reducing
environmental impact.

• Overall, HDPE is a versatile polymer with a linear structure, high density, and excellent
mechanical, chemical, and electrical properties. Its wide range of applications and
recyclability make it a valuable material in various industries.
RECYCLING CODE NUMBER

The recycling code number, also known as the resin identification code, is a symbol used to
identify different types of plastic materials. These codes are typically represented by a number
within a recycling triangle symbol. Here is some information about recycling code numbers:

• Code #1: PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

- PET is a commonly used plastic for beverage bottles, food containers, and packaging.
- It is highly recyclable and can be used to produce new PET bottles or polyester fibers for
clothing and carpets.
- However, it is important to note that PET can degrade if recycled repeatedly, so it is often
downcycled into lower-value products.

• Code #2: HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

- HDPE is a versatile plastic used for various applications, including bottles, containers, pipes,
and plastic lumber.
- It is one of the most widely recycled plastics due to its high demand and market value.
- Recycled HDPE can be used to make new bottles, packaging, and other plastic products.

• Code #3: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

- PVC is a plastic commonly used in construction materials, pipes, window frames, and flooring.
- It is more challenging to recycle PVC compared to other plastics due to the presence of
additives and contaminants.
- Recycled PVC is typically used in non-food contact applications such as outdoor decking,
fencing, and traffic cones.

• Code #4: LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)

- LDPE is a flexible plastic used in packaging films, plastic bags, and various molded products.
 - It is commonly recycled into new plastic bags, plastic lumber, and irrigation pipes.
- LDPE recycling requires specialized facilities due to its low density and flexibility.

• Code #5: PP (Polypropylene)

- PP is a durable plastic used in packaging, automotive parts, furniture, and household items.
- It is widely recycled into new containers, automotive components, and fibers for carpets and
textiles.
- PP recycling is economically viable due to its high demand in the manufacturing industry.

• Code #6: PS (Polystyrene)

- PS is used in foam packaging, disposable food containers, and insulation materials.
- Recycling PS can be challenging due to its low density and the presence of additives.
- Expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, commonly used in packaging, can be recycled into new
foam products or converted into other materials.

• Code #7: Other Plastics

- Code 7 includes various other types of plastics, including polycarbonate (PC), polylactic acid
(PLA), and bioplastics.
- These plastics are less commonly recycled and often require specialized recycling processes.
- It is important to check with local recycling facilities to determine if they accept and process
these materials.

- It's important to note that the presence of a recycling code does not guarantee that an item is
recyclable in every recycling program. Recycling capabilities can vary by location and the
availability of recycling infrastructure. It is always recommended to check with local recycling
guidelines and facilities to ensure proper disposal and recycling of plastic materials.
APPLICATIONS OF HDPE RECYCLED POLYMER

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) recycled polymer finds various applications across different
industries. Here are some of the key applications:

1. Packaging:
- HDPE recycled polymer is commonly used in the production of plastic bottles, containers,
and packaging materials.
- It is widely used for packaging products such as detergents, shampoos, cleaning agents, and
personal care items.
- Recycled HDPE can be processed into new packaging products, reducing the demand for
virgin plastic and promoting sustainability.

2. Construction:
- HDPE recycled polymer is utilized in the construction industry for various applications.
- It is used for manufacturing pipes, fittings, and conduits for water supply, drainage systems,
and gas distribution networks.
- Recycled HDPE pipes have proven to be durable, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective
alternatives to traditional materials.

3. Agriculture:
- Recycled HDPE is used in agriculture for applications such as irrigation pipes, water storage
tanks, and agricultural films.
- Irrigation pipes made from recycled HDPE offer excellent resistance to chemicals, UV
radiation, and impact.
- Agricultural films made from recycled HDPE are used for mulching, greenhouse covers, and
silage protection, promoting sustainable farming practices.

4. Automotive:
 - HDPE recycled polymer finds applications in the automotive industry.
- It is used in the production of various automotive components, including fuel tanks,
bumpers, door panels, and interior trim.
- Recycled HDPE provides good impact resistance, chemical resistance, and lightweight
properties, contributing to vehicle weight reduction and fuel efficiency.

5. Furniture and Household Items:

- Recycled HDPE is used for manufacturing furniture and household items.
- It can be processed into recycled plastic lumber, which is used for outdoor furniture, decking,
fences, and playground equipment.
- Recycled HDPE offers durability, low maintenance requirements, and resistance to
weathering, making it suitable for outdoor applications.

6. Industrial Applications:
- HDPE recycled polymer is utilized in various industrial applications.
- It is used for manufacturing industrial containers, drums, pallets, and storage tanks.
- Recycled HDPE containers and drums provide excellent chemical resistance and strength,
making them suitable for storing and transporting various substances.

7. Environmental Applications:
- Recycled HDPE is used in environmental applications that promote sustainability and waste
management.
- It is used for manufacturing recycling bins, trash cans, and compost bins.

8. Miscellaneous Applications:
- Recycled HDPE finds applications in other areas, including marine and boating industries,
where it is used for manufacturing floats, buoys, and boat components.
- It is also used in the production of industrial films, geomembranes for landfill liners, and
geotextiles for erosion control and drainage applications.
RECYCLING METHODS USED FOR HDPE POLYMER

Recycling methods for HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) polymer involve various processes to
convert used or waste HDPE materials into reusable forms. Here are some of the commonly
used recycling methods for HDPE:

1. Mechanical Recycling:
- Mechanical recycling is the most common method used for recycling HDPE.
- The process starts with collecting and sorting HDPE waste based on color and grade.
- The sorted HDPE waste is then shredded into small pieces or flakes.
- These flakes are thoroughly cleaned to remove contaminants such as labels, adhesives, and
other plastics.
- The cleaned flakes are melted and extruded into pellets or granules.
- The resulting HDPE pellets can be used as raw material for manufacturing new HDPE
products, such as bottles, containers, pipes, and packaging materials.

2. Injection Molding:
- Injection molding is another recycling method used for HDPE.
- The process involves melting and injecting the recycled HDPE material into a mold under high
pressure.
- The molten HDPE fills the mold cavity and cools down, solidifying into the desired shape.
- Injection molding is commonly used to produce various products, including automotive
components, furniture, household items, and industrial parts.

3. Blow Molding:
- Blow molding is a recycling method primarily used for manufacturing plastic bottles and
containers from HDPE.
- The process starts with melting the recycled HDPE and forming it into a hollow tube, also
known as a parison.
 - The parison is then placed in a mold, and compressed air is used to inflate and shape it
against the mold walls.
- The inflated HDPE takes the shape of the mold and solidifies, resulting in a finished bottle or
container.

4. Rotational Molding:
- Rotational molding, also known as rotomolding, is a recycling method used to produce large,
hollow, and complex-shaped products from recycled HDPE.
- The process involves placing the powdered recycled HDPE material into a mold.
- The mold is then heated and rotated slowly in multiple axes to evenly distribute the molten
HDPE material and coat the mold surface.
- The rotation continues while the HDPE cools and solidifies, forming the desired product
shape.
- Rotational molding is commonly used to manufacture products such as tanks, playground
equipment, and large containers.

5. Film Extrusion:
- Film extrusion is a recycling method used to produce plastic films from recycled HDPE.
- The process involves melting the recycled HDPE and extruding it through a die to form a
continuous film.
- The film is then cooled and wound onto rolls.
- Recycled HDPE films find applications in various industries, including packaging, agriculture,
and construction.

6. Composite Manufacturing:
- HDPE can also be used in composite manufacturing processes.
- Recycled HDPE can be combined with other materials, such as wood fibers or glass fibers, to
create composite materials with improved properties.
- These composites can be used for manufacturing decking, fencing, and other building
materials.
7. 3D Printing:
- With advancements in additive manufacturing technologies, recycled HDPE can also be
utilized in 3D printing processes.
- Filaments made from recycled HDPE can be used as a feedstock for 3D printers to create
prototypes, functional parts, and various plastic objects.

These recycling methods contribute to reducing waste, conserving resources, and promoting
the circular economy by transforming used HDPE materials into new products. The choice of
recycling method depends on the specific requirements and end-use applications of the
recycled HDPE.
APPLICATIONS OF HDPE POLYMER RECYLATES

Application of HDPE polymer recyclates refers to the utilization of recycled HDPE materials in
various industries and products. Here are some important applications of HDPE polymer
recyclates:

1. Packaging:
- HDPE polymer recyclates are commonly used in packaging applications, such as bottles,
containers, and packaging films.
- They can be processed into new packaging products for a wide range of consumer goods,
including beverages, cleaning agents, personal care items, and food products.
- HDPE polymer recyclates in packaging contribute to reducing the environmental impact by
promoting the reuse of plastic materials and decreasing the demand for virgin plastics.

2. Building and Construction:

- HDPE polymer recyclates find applications in the building and construction industry.
- They can be used for manufacturing pipes, fittings, and profiles for various construction
applications, such as water supply systems, drainage systems, and electrical conduits.
- Recycled HDPE in construction helps conserve resources, reduce waste, and promote
sustainable construction practices.

3. Agriculture and Horticulture:

- HDPE polymer recyclates are utilized in the agriculture and horticulture sectors.
- They can be used for manufacturing irrigation pipes, agricultural films, and containers for
plant nurseries.
- Recycled HDPE materials in agriculture contribute to water management, sustainable farming
practices, and the reduction of plastic waste in the environment.

4. Furniture and Household Items:

 - HDPE polymer recyclates are used in the manufacturing of furniture and household items.
- They can be processed into recycled plastic lumber, which is used for outdoor furniture,
decking, picnic tables, and playground equipment.
- Recycled HDPE materials offer durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance, making
them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.

5. Automotive:
- HDPE polymer recyclates have applications in the automotive industry.
- They can be used for manufacturing interior components, such as door panels, dashboard
parts, and seat backs.
- Recycled HDPE in automotive applications contributes to weight reduction, fuel efficiency,
and the use of sustainable materials in vehicle manufacturing.

6. Industrial Applications:
- HDPE polymer recyclates find applications in various industrial sectors.
- They can be used for manufacturing industrial containers, drums, pallets, and storage tanks.
- Recycled HDPE materials provide chemical resistance, durability, and cost-effectiveness,
making them suitable for industrial applications.

7. Miscellaneous Applications:
- HDPE polymer recyclates have diverse applications in other sectors as well.
- They can be used in the production of products such as marine floats, buoys, traffic barriers,
and outdoor signage.
- Recycled HDPE materials contribute to environmental sustainability by reusing plastic waste
and reducing the demand for new plastics.

The application of HDPE polymer recyclates promotes resource conservation, waste reduction,
and the circular economy. By incorporating recycled materials into various products and
industries, the environmental impact of plastic waste can be minimized, and a more sustainable
and responsible approach to material usage can be achieved.