Bioderived polymers from dienes for compatibilization and recycling of polyethylene and polypropylene mixed waste

Bioderived block copolymers used for the recycling of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) mixed waste.
Technology No. 2024-028
IP Status: Provisional Patent Application Filed

Applications

  • Recycling PE and PP
  • Circular plastics economy

Technology Overview

Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) constitute almost 70% of the global plastics market. They offer many benefits in consumer products, and contribute to a rapidly growing reservoir of plastic waste, which are deposited in landfills and the environment. Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a bioderived block copolymer that can be synthesized with known commercial processes and used for the compatibilization of commercial PE and PP mixed plastic waste to yield tough blends with mechanical properties similar to those of the pure components.

Phase of Development

TRL: 3-4
Small plastic films have been produced from mixed recycled plastic

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  • Co-development

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Researchers

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