Application of switchable hydrophilicity solvents for recycling multilayer packaging materials

Abstract

A new procedure based on switchable hydrophilicity solvents (SHS) was proposed for polyethylene and aluminium recovery from food aseptic packaging. Treatment with N,N-dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA) allowed very high material recovery (>99% for aluminium and >80% for polyethylene), without compromising the quality in terms of oxidation or polymer degradation. Moreover, the results from a simplified and preliminary life cycle analysis confirm the potential environmental benefits of a SHS approach compared with other treatment and disposal scenarios.