Polymer Recycling Compendium

This compendium provides example data and interpretations for the seven codes of recyclable polymers. DSC and TGA raw data files are provided so that the user can easily overlay their data with the expected results for new unprocessed plastics. This allows for a confirmation of identity and assists in the analysis of incoming materials. An FTIR library is provided that contains the most commonly encountered plastics along with some of the more prevalent additives and polymer blends. Additionally, method files are provided for the three instruments to ensure that the data collected is in accordance with polymer processing standards. The analytical techniques most commonly implemented in the analysis of polymers are:

• Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) - primary utilized in the determination of melting and/or glass transition temperatures. DSC can also allow for polymer ratios to be determined in blended materials.
• Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) - often utilized to detect polymer, filler, and carbon black content. TGA also affords the opportunity to determine moisture content, and in some instances, polymer ratios.
• Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) - first-line measurement to assist in the identification of polymers, fillers, and additives.