Recycling of PVDC by supercritical water treatment

Halogenated polymers, such as PVC (polyvinylchloride) and PVDC (polyvinylidenedichloride) are widely used in applications ranging from packaging to consumer goods to coatings. However, there are currently no sustainable methods that address their end-of-life. While PVC and PVDC are thermoplastic, thermomechanical recycling (viz. melting and re-extruding and re-processing them) is problematic. These polymers are unstable to thermomechanical processes and release chlorine in the form of acid. Incineration of halogenated polymers is also challenging due to the formation of dioxins. This project will explore the feasibility of using supercritical water for recycling of PVDC. This project is largely experimental.

This project will be co-advised by Prof Sandip Roy. This project will be performed in collaboration with Solvay (see: https://www.solvay.com/en/brands/ixan-pvdc).