Optimization of PET Glycolysis Process by Response Surface Methodological Approach: A Two-Component Modelling Using Glycolysis Time and Temperature

Abstract

Response surface methodology (RSM) was used for predicting the optimal condition of glycolysis time and temperature in the recycling of PET scrap. Central composite rotatable design (CCRD) for two variables at four levels was chosen as the experimental design. The data obtained from measurement of properties were fitted as a two variable second-order equation and were plotted as 3D surface plots using programme developed in MATLAB v.5. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to evaluate the validity of model. The optimum operating conditions for glycolysis time and temperature were 6.5 h and 180°C, respectively. Under these optimal conditions, the hydroxyl value and glycolysis conversion percentage was 38.14 mgKOH/g and 95%, respectively, at the 0.97 desirability level, whereas the acid value and number average molecular weight () at the same desirability level were 12.2 mgKOH/g and 695 g/mol, respectively.