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Scientific Article details

Title Review and recommendations for sustainable pathways of recycling commodity plastic waste across different economic regions
ID_Doc 19840
Authors Darko, C; Yung, PWS; Chen, AL; Acquaye, A
Title Review and recommendations for sustainable pathways of recycling commodity plastic waste across different economic regions
Year 2023
Published
DOI 10.1016/j.resenv.2023.100134
Abstract Commodity plastics such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are some of the common plastic wastes found in municipal wastes. Lack of technology, resources, coherent programs, policies, mismanagement and incomplete processing of these plastics, results in these plastics mostly ending up in landfills. Adopting a qualitative research approach, the paper reviewed PE, PP and PET recycling waste management processes from selected developed and developing countries. It was found that chemical recycling in terms of catalytic cracking followed by pyrolysis technologies are more suitable for producing higher liquid oils whiles gasification improves fuel gas yield. Given that mechanical recycling requires less capital and resources, it is a more suitable waste management option for plastic products in developing countries. In cases where there are complex separation issues, incineration for energy recovery is appropriate but it should be used with end-of-pipe treatment solutions to mitigate against the environmental impact of incineration. The paper further highlights various opportunities and challenges involved with PE, PP and PET plastic waste treatment pathway, the appropriate yields obtained for each technique and where adaptation can be made.
Author Keywords Plastic recycling; Waste management; Country differences; Catalytic cracking; Pyrolysis; Gasification; Incineration; Mechanical recycling
Index Keywords Index Keywords
Document Type Other
Open Access Open Access
Source Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI)
EID WOS:001133963900001
WoS Category Green & Sustainable Science & Technology; Environmental Sciences; Environmental Studies
Research Area Science & Technology - Other Topics; Environmental Sciences & Ecology
PDF https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resenv.2023.100134
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