Characterization of the Thermal, Structural, and Mechanical Properties of Recycled HDPE

Abstract

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is one of the most popular plastics used in industry. Although it replaces many natural resources, due to the low cost and easy processing, its ever-increasing wastes make it harmful for the environment. Thus, many processes are used in order to recycle it. In the present study, the properties of recycled HDPE (r-HDPE) compared to virgin HDPE are investigated. The structural studies are performed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The thermal properties of virgin HDPE and r-HDPE are measured by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Moreover, the mechanical properties are examined by Instron tensile strength experiments. Comparing the results, r-HDPE does not show any significant differences regarding its structural and thermal properties. Additionally, it is found that r-HDPE has a slight increase in tensile strength. As a result, considering that the mechanical process to produce r-HDPE does not affect its general properties, it is suitable for further processing.