Reclamation of waste plastics and rubber: Recovery of materials and energy

Abstract

Abstract The world‐wide production of waste plastics and rubber is increasing with much of it appearing in domestic refuse. This waste should be regarded as a minor but valuable resource of energy and materials but it is largely dumped instead of being reclaimed. Those methods of reclamation which lead to breakdown of the polymeric structure are considered here. The principal methods of recycling are combustion with energy recovery, pyrolysis and depolymerisation. Each of these methods is surveyed in detail. It is concluded that social and economic measures are needed to stimulate greater use of existing technology which, in turn, would allow the development of more sophisticated technology.