Recycling Through Comminution: Characterization, Separation and Recycling Barriers of Metal Coated Polymers and Metallized Polymer Foams

Abstract

The increasing global demand for raw materials underscores the importance of lightweight construction and sustainable material use, drawing attention to composite techniques like galvanic coating of plastics. To support recycling efforts, the development of efficient separation and material recovery processes is critical, particularly for end-of-life products containing metal-plated polymers. This study investigates the recyclability of metallized polymer foams and coated polymers through comminution, focusing on the potential for effective separation of metal and polymer components. Cu-ABS samples showed 27% of the products in the 8–10 mm fraction and 48% in the 10–16 mm fraction during primary comminution, while Cu-PUR achieved a more even distribution. Microscopic analyses revealed decoating rates of up to 95% for Cu-ABS compared to 19% for Cu-PUR. The comminution energy required for Cu-PUR was three times higher, with a fivefold lower decoating rate than solid materials. Particles larger than 200 µm exhibited interlocking, complicating the separation process. These findings highlight the need for optimized recycling processes to enable efficient raw material recovery and support a circular economy.