Development of a continuous PET depolymerization process as a basis for a back-to-monomer recycling method

Abstract This study presents a new approach for the recycling of bilayered PET waste in an efficient, continuous process with depolymerization degree >97%. The complex was converted by chemolysis into its monomers ethylene glycol (EG) and corresponding salt terephthalic acid (TA) twin-screw extruder (TSE). Via this method, starting materials production were recovered, highly contaminated composite transformed valuable materials. PE layer PET/PE material remained inert under conditions could be separated filtration. An increase rotational speed 200 rpm TSE reduced residence time, but not affected proportional manner. Thus, results indicate that shorter time can compensated intensified mechanical agitation due to higher speeds obtain similar depolymerization. These support potential concept substantially contribute implementation circular economy.