Recycling
There are many applications for supercritical CO2 in recycling. Its solvent and diffusion properties allow it to clean a metal material generated during machining, as well as to extract a contaminant contained in a polymer matrix.
Re-use waste and used materials
Recycling of metal chips with CO2
When machining metal parts, large quantities of metal chips are generated. These chips are loaded with oil and therefore cannot be used in a foundry as they are. Supercritical CO2 allows degreasing the chips while respecting the material (no oxidation).
Residual hydrocarbon content in accordance with ASTM B348 Dry treatment without water Elimination of polluted aqueous discharges 50% reduction in energy consumption
Extraction of pollutant molecules from a polymer matrix
Polymers often contain numerous additives or molecules/compounds that give them the properties required for the intended application (plasticizers, reinforcements, fillers, colorants, stabilizers, etc.).
They may also contain residues from their synthesis (monomers, solvents, etc.). Thus, in order to recycle the material for new applications, it may be necessary to extract the polluting molecules. The diffusion properties of CO2 allow it to extract them to the core of the material. It is indeed able to diffuse between the polymer chains.
Discover other supercritical CO2 cleaning applications
For the medical sector
Range of machines adapted to the clean room environment Offset machine body Pre-sterilization of DM
For the mechanics
Suitable for all metallic and polymeric materials Ideal for complex parts Removes all residual traces of solvents
For textiles
Autoclaves that can accommodate widths up to 3m Desensitization of textiles in bulk or on reels
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Can CO2 cause damage or corrosion to the recycled materials being processed?
CO2 is an inert gas for metals and polymers to be cleaned. Therefore, it does not pose any risk to the recycled materials.