Recycling

There are many applications for supercritical CO2 in recycling. Its solvent and diffusion properties allow it to clean a metal material generated during machining, as well as to extract a contaminant contained in a polymer matrix.

Re-use waste and used materials

Recycling of metal chips with CO2

When machining metal parts, large quantities of metal chips are generated. These chips are loaded with oil and therefore cannot be used in a foundry as they are. Supercritical CO2 allows degreasing the chips while respecting the material (no oxidation).

Residual hydrocarbon content in accordance with ASTM B348
Dry treatment without water
Elimination of polluted aqueous discharges
50% reduction in energy consumption

Various plastics awaiting recycling with the supercritical CO2 treatment process of the company Dense Fluid Degreasing

Extraction of pollutant molecules from a polymer matrix

Polymers often contain numerous additives or molecules/compounds that give them the properties required for the intended application (plasticizers, reinforcements, fillers, colorants, stabilizers, etc.).
They may also contain residues from their synthesis (monomers, solvents, etc.). Thus, in order to recycle the material for new applications, it may be necessary to extract the polluting molecules. The diffusion properties of CO2 allow it to extract them to the core of the material. It is indeed able to diffuse between the polymer chains.

Discover other supercritical CO2 cleaning applications

Medical devices - Dense Fluid Degreasing

For the medical sector

Range of machines adapted to the clean room environment
Offset machine body
Pre-sterilization of DM

Engine Cylinder Head - Dense Fluid Degreasing

For the mechanics

Suitable for all metallic and polymeric materials
Ideal for complex parts
Removes all residual traces of solvents

Spool of desensitizing line - dense fluid degreasing

For textiles

Autoclaves that can accommodate widths up to 3m
Desensitization of textiles in bulk or on reels

 

Find out more

Can CO2 cause damage or corrosion to the recycled materials being processed?

CO2 is an inert gas for metals and polymers to be cleaned. Therefore, it does not pose any risk to the recycled materials.