Thermal Stability and Crystallization Behavior of Contaminated Recycled Polypropylene for Food Contact

Author(s)

Veroneze, Isabelly Bertochi ; Onoue, Leticia Akemi ; Cruz, Sandra Andrea

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: JOURNAL OF POLYMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT; v. N/A, p. 9-pg., 2022-04-21.

Abstract

Polypropylene is one of the most widely used polymers, especially in the food packaging industry, which causes negative environmental effects. Recycling is a good option to partially solve this environmental problem. Thus, the polymer was contaminated with a cocktail to simulate the conditions of disposal and recycling following FDA guidelines. The influence of contaminants on recycled PP was analyzed by quiescent and nonquiescent crystallization. It was found that the contaminants alter the crystallization flow since longer induction times were observed for all contaminated samples. Also, the thermal behavior was performed considering that the thermogravimetric (TGA) results indicated an increase in the stability with the presence of contaminants. Therefore, a deep investigation using the induced oxidation time and induced oxidation temperature was performed. The contaminants play an important role in the crystallization process, as well as, in the degradation of the samples. Furthermore, the use of TGA and DSC as complementary techniques is fundamental to analyze this influence. [GRAPHICS] . (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 16/25703-2 - Recycled polypropylene for food contact: employment of a-C:H thin films by plasma deposition and degradation in the presence of contaminants
• Grantee: Sandra Andrea Cruz
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 17/24316-8 - Degradation study of clarified polypropylene in presence of a-C:H contaminants and films: use of parallel plate rheometer and thermal analysis
• Grantee: Isabelly Bertochi Veroneze
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Technical Training Program - Technical Training