Reprocessing of 3D printing filament’s fragment by hydrolysis and recycling into the formation of bioplastic

Abstract

Currently, additive manufacturing become an expanding industry which committing high demand of plastic. Consequently, plastic waste generated will be increased exponentially. Polylactic acid (PLA) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are extensively used polymer as the filament for 3D printing. Therefore, the reprocessing of the fragments is necessary to reduce the plastic pollution. This study the aims to investigate the conversion of PET to terephthalic acid (TPA) and its conversion breakthrough via caustic soda hydrolysis. Meanwhile, the effect of PLA dissolution and its integration with glycerol to produced bioplastic was investigated. Fragment of PET was undergone hydrolysis process at different time and the conversion rate showed increment as prolong reaction time. TPA yield produced follow the same trend of PET conversion. FTIR analysis proved the formation of TPA after the hydrolysis process due to the formation of O–H and C–H which corresponding to the formation of carboxylic acid and ethylene glycol of TPA. Concurrently, PLA was dissolved in chloroform at different time and mixed with glycerol which acts as plasticizer to form PLA/glycerol plastic. It was found that the longer dissolution time, the higher the percentage of PLA dissolved. From FTIR analysis, the functional group of PLA has changed indicated that the reaction between dissolved PLA and glycerol has been taken placed. The results indicate that PET degradation can occur at low cost and on this basis. Ergo, this formation of valuable products from waste polymers can be an alternative method in promoting reduced waste generation.