Reverse jig separation of shredded floating plastics — separation of polypropylene and high density polyethylene

A desktop type batch reverse jig and prototype bench scale continuous reverse jig were designed by installing a top screen to the chamber of the RETAC jig. Shredded plastics of polypropylene (specific density 0.91) and high density polyethylene (specific density 0.96) were used for the tests and operating conditions were investigated using a desktop type batch jig. Waveform and screen design affected the separation results. Wettability control of feed sample is also important and 100% separation was achieved for the top and bottom layer products. The prototype bench scale continuous jig could obtain a high grade product, 99% pure as a bottom product.

Research Highlights►The RETAC jig was modified to separate floating plastics. ►The modified jig could separate polypropylene and high density polyethylene. ►The effects of the separating conditions were investigated. ►A bench scale continuous reverse jig was designed and tested.