Abstract: This study evaluates an imidazolium ionic liquid (IL) additive for the recycling of waste PET containers. An investigation into how different percentages of this additive and relevant processing parameters affect material properties was conducted. Thermal and mechanical analyses were performed, including calorimetry, thermal degradation, IR spectroscopy, and nanoindentation. Melted composites exhibited thermal properties similar to those of virgin PET, indicating that the additive does not reduce stability. Moreover, mechanical analysis from hardness and modulus also indicates that virgin PET's superior properties are retained at low percentages of the additive. Spectroscopic results suggest that the PET polymer structure is largely unchanged. blending with the IL additive improved recycled PET performance, but excessive amounts compromises properties. Thus, the results support the feasibility of additive-induced modification as a means of improving reclaimed materials from recycled PET waste for optimized reuse; however, further adjustment of additive percentages is necessary for optimal performance.

Keywords: Plastics - PET - Recycled - Composite - Additives - Blend - Mechanical properties

Pages: 304-311