Reprocessing of waste poly(butadiene) from ABS plastics

Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymer plastics are used in many commercial applications, ranging from housing for goods, automotive fascia, LEGO bricks to 3D printing materials. Consequently, the recycling of ABS poses a challenge in the context of recycling plastic waste. It is particularly difficult as it is a multi-phase material. Polystyvert has applied their expertise in recycling polystyrene waste effectively, recovering material with their technology that has equal or better physical properties compared to the polymer entering their process. They have now turned to recycling ABS, and have reached a point where they have been able to separate waste cross-linked poly(butadiene) (PB) from the SAN (styrene/acrylonitrile) matrix but the valorization of the waste PB into a value-added material is an opportunity. McGill and Polystyvert will collaborate, with the intern learning to on develope a recovery methodology for waste PB streams, followed by intensive characterization and assessment for recycling. Life-cycle assessment and circularity will be emphasized to determine the optimal method to recycle PB, which the industrial partner will use to make informed technology decisions on how to recycle ABS efficiently with the lowest carbon footprint possible.

Faculty Supervisor:

Milan Maric;Richard Leask;Jim Nicell

Student:

Partner:

Polystyvert

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services

University:

McGill University

Program: