Innovative Partnership Develops New Technology to Enhance Plastic Recycling
MURRAY, Ky. — In a groundbreaking collaborative effort, Dr. Kevin Miller, chair of the Department of Chemistry at Murray State University, and Dr. Christopher Ellison from the University of Minnesota have created a novel technology aimed at improving the recyclability of mixed plastic waste, particularly focusing on polyester and polyolefin blends, which account for a significant portion of global plastic waste.
Despite the extensive use of plastics—specifically polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE)—recycling rates in the United States remain abysmally low, with less than 9% of plastics being recycled as of 2020. Most plastic waste is discarded in landfills or incinerated, highlighting an urgent need for more effective recycling alternatives.
The new patented technology utilizes multi-block copolymer compatibilizers that function during melt processing to bond layers of plastics, effectively overcoming the challenges posed by traditional recycling methods. By integrating these compatibilizers, the technology enhances interlayer adhesion in reprocessed films, making them more viable for reuse compared to standard multi-layered materials.
The research, supported by the National Science Foundation’s Center for Sustainable Polymers, demonstrates great potential for addressing mixed plastic waste that is often too complex for conventional recycling. The compatibility of these new copolymers could facilitate the recycling of materials that are otherwise discarded due to the difficulty of separation.
“I’ve known Chris Ellison for many years and this project addresses a major global concern: plastic pollution,” said Miller. “By developing cost-effective solutions, we aim to contribute meaningfully to recycling efforts.”
The newly issued patent (US 12281204 B2) marks a significant step forward in sustainability initiatives within the chemical engineering field. The successful collaboration underscores the vital role of innovative research in combatting environmental challenges posed by plastic waste.
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