Solvent-Based Recycling
Dominik Triebert, Hagen Hanel, Marlen Bundt, Klaus Wohnig
Abstract
Solvent-Based Recycling of polymers is a promising recycling strategy for polymers with first industrial applications. Firstly, a historical overview about this recycling technology is given in this Chapter. Since in the past the term “Solvent-Based Recycling” was often synomously used with “Chemical Recycling”, different wordings are discussed which are used today in this context. Also, a general process description is shown as well as optional additional steps for purification and decontamination. As Solvent-Based Recycling has the potential to generate recyclates for applications with highest quality demands the status quo of the relevant legislative, e.g. recyclates from Solvent-Based Recycling as potential food contact material is outlined. The ecological assessment of Solvent-Based Recycling compared to other recycling strategies, like Mechanical Recycling and Chemical Recycling, is evaluated on the basis of recent life-cycle-assessments (LCA). Further, current established industrial applications of Solvent-Based Recycling are summarized. Finally, an outlook on the development of Solvent-Based Recycling is presented, within the framework of a successful circular economy for plastics.