This book, on recycling of PVC and mixed plastic wastes, has been compiled from contributions from an array of scientists from several countries who are playing a leading role in plastic recycling. They offer practical solutions to many difficult problems in this field.

The book is made up of 11 chapters. The first two cover thermal stabilisation of PVC which is to be recycled. They deal with the original stabiliser, residual stability of material, and go on to consider additional stabilisation which may be required. Several practical and effective ways of recycling PVC are proposed. Data are presented to show that a well designed system can reduce stabilisation costs.

The next two chapters deal with successful, commercial operations. In one, fully automated, developed by VEKA in Germany, complete PVC windows containing PVC, glass, metal, and rubber are recycled. No dismantling of the window is needed. Another process, developed by Solvay in Belgium, recycles PVC bottles and pipes and the properties of products made from this recycled material are equal those of the original polymers.

Several chapters are devoted to the technology of processing mixed plastic waste. Emphasis is placed on degradation, morphological structure, molecular weight and branching of component polymers and the effects of these factors on the performance of blends of recycled polymers. Several methods of compatibilisation are covered. These include selection of compatibilisers and cost-effective methods of their production. Also method of mechanical dispersion is proposed as an alternative to chemical compatibilisation. The blend obtained by this technology has excellent performance characteristics.

The final two chapters review the effect of contamination and UV stability of recycled polymers. Effect of contaminants and methods of their removal are broadly discussed.

Anyone involved in production of materials from virgin polymers who is concerned with their recyclability should read this book. The ideas and data presented will help the process of planning future recycling efforts and help to bring the recycling process from a costly nuisance to a profitable industry.

Recycling of PVC: Effect of the Processing OperationGerald Scott, Aston University, UK

Investigations on the Recycling Ability of Used PVCD. Braun and K. Krmer, Deutsches Kunststoff-Institut

Recycling of Complete PVC WindowsHerbert Uhlen, VEKA, Germany

Recycling PVC Bottles and Pipes by CoextrusionGeorges Voituron, Solvay, Belgium

Basic Concepts on the Recycling of Homogeneous and Heterogeneous PlasticsF. P. La Mantia, Italy

Compatibilization of Recycled Polyethyleneterephthalate/Polypropylene Blends Using a Functionalized RubberB. Ballauri, M. Trabuio, and F. P. La Mantia, F.lli Maris, Shell, and University of Palermo, Italy

Recycling of Post-consumer Plastic Containers for LiquidsF. P. La Mantia, University of Palermo, Italy

A New Process for Recycling of Mixed Plastics WasteB. Dubrulle DOrhcel, Newplast, Holland

Grafted Copolymers and Their Use in Polymer BlendsB. Boutevin, Y. Pietrasanta, and J.-J. Robin, France

Effect of Contamination on the Recycling of PolymersJ. Scheirs, Australia and G. Camino, Italy

UV Stability of Recycled PolymersGeorge Wypych, Canada