Method for recycling TPE thermoplastic elastomer

With the acceleration of industrialization and the widespread use of plastic products, the issue of plastic waste disposal has become increasingly prominent. As a high-performance, versatile plastic, the recycling methods and significance of TPE thermoplastic elastomers have become a focus of environmental attention. So, what are the methods for recycling TPE thermoplastic elastomers? Below, the Shenzhen Zhongsuwang TPE editor will introduce them.

The main methods for recycling TPE thermoplastic elastomers are as follows:

(1) Physical Recycling

Physical recycling involves mechanically processing discarded TPE materials into reusable pellets or finished products. This method is simple to operate and low-cost, making it the primary method for TPE recycling. Specific steps include:

Collection and Sorting: Discarded TPE products are sorted by type and color to avoid mixing different types of materials that could affect recycling quality.

Crushing and Cleaning: Discarded TPE products are crushed into small pieces and cleaned to remove surface dirt and impurities. Melt granulation: Cleaned TPE scraps are melted in an extruder and then pelletized into recycled pellets for use in the production of new TPE products.

The advantages of physical recycling lie in its mature process and low energy consumption. However, the performance of the recycled material may decline, making it suitable for applications with lower performance requirements.

(2) Chemical Recycling

Chemical recycling involves chemically breaking down waste TPE materials into monomers or other chemical raw materials, which are then reconstituted into TPE or other high-value-added products. While this method requires high technical requirements, it achieves complete material recycling and offers greater environmental value. Currently, the application of chemical recycling in the TPE industry is still in the research stage and has not yet been widely adopted.

This concludes our discussion of TPE thermoplastic elastomer recycling methods. TPE thermoplastic elastomers are processed without the addition of harmful substances such as heavy metals and plasticizers, making them environmentally friendly and non-toxic, further enhancing their value in recycling.