Recycling of Polyurethane Foams - (Plastics Design Library) by Sabu Thomas & Ajay Vasudeo Rane & Krishnan Kanny & Abitha Vk & Martin George Thomas

Book Synopsis

Recycling of Polyurethane Foams introduces the main degradation/depolymerization processes and pathways of polyurethane foam materials, focusing on industrial case studies and academic reviews from recent research and development projects. The book can aid practitioners in understanding the basis of polymer degradation and its relationship with industrial processes, which can be of substantial value to industrial complexes the world over. The main pathways of polymer recycling via different routes and industrial schemes are detailed, covering all current techniques, including regrinding, rebinding, adhesive pressing and compression moulding of recovered PU materials that are then compared with depolymerization approaches.

The book examines life cycle assessment and cost analysis associated with polyurethane foams waste management, showing the potential of various techniques. This book will help academics and researchers identify and improve on current depolymerization processes, and it will help industry sustainability professionals choose the appropriate approach for their own waste management systems, thus minimizing the costs and environmental impact of their PU-based end products.

Review Quotes

"Overall, this book offers a collection of excellent contributions covering all aspects of the life cycle of PU foams, structured in a convincing way with numerous links between the chapters. The result is an essential manual which leads both the experienced reader and the newcomer through an exciting path, unveiling the science and technology of state of the art PU production and recycling processes, shedding new light on the limits of current approaches, advances in research and future opportunities for closing the material cycle." --Detritus