Joint research by RIKEN TECHNOS CORPORATION and Shinshu University has yielded insights into improving the efficiency of the dechlorination reaction of PVC compounds using zinc oxide, with a high dechlorination rate achieved at approximately 200°C even in the presence of plasticizers. The findings are scheduled to be presented at the 138th Catalysis Discussion Meeting.
Chemical recycling of PVC compounds has remained at the demonstration stage because of uncertainties surrounding the treatment of chlorine compounds generated during the decomposition of chlorine-containing structures, as well as the effects of plasticizers, stabilizers and fillers.
RIKEN TECHNOS CORPORATION has been conducting joint research with Professor Okada's group at Shinshu University to advance the development of chemical recycling technology for PVC compounds by examining the properties of zinc oxide, the effects of additives and methods for effectively using dechlorination products.
Testing confirmed that a high dechlorination rate could be achieved at approximately 200°C even in the presence of plasticizers. The findings suggested that plasticizers facilitate the uniform dispersion of zinc oxide in PVC, indicating that the process may be compatible with conventional mixing methods.
The results of the joint research are scheduled to be presented at the 138th Catalysis Discussion Meeting to be held at Kumamoto University, as part of efforts to explore new opportunities for the effective use of chlorine-containing plastics, with further developments expected.