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A Study on the Derivation of Point of Zero Charge of HDPE and LDPE by Employing Solubilization Technique
Summary
Researchers used a solubilization technique to determine the surface charge properties (point of zero charge) of HDPE and LDPE plastics, information relevant to designing methods for removing these particles from water or separating them for recycling. Understanding plastic surface chemistry is important for developing water treatment technologies that can capture and remove microplastics. This paper is primarily a materials characterization study.
Solubilization technique was applied in determining the point of zero charge of HDPE and LDPE to suggest a method of removing the particles from the aquatic environment and separating different plastic types ahead of a recycling process. Since plastic, especially polyethylene has the potential to cause harm to humans and the ecosystem when broken down into small fragments and plastic particles can reach all domains of the earth through the hydrologic cycle, removing microplastics from the marine environment is crucial. The experiment was conducted to determine the surface characteristics of HDPE and LDPE by using the microplastic particles respectively to NaCl solution with different concentrations. The same amount of HCl was added to the solution to determine the point of zero charge of HDPE and LDPE. HDPE was observed to have a point of zero charge at 5.14 whereas the point of zero charge of LDPE was 5.28. It could be suggested that the pH of the solution can be controlled to 5.14 and 5.28 respectively. PE particles which are separated based on their point of zero charge are expected to be agglomerated and collected with high purity and converted into recycled raw material. Furthermore, this research is expected to contribute to studies that aim to remove other types of fine particles from unwanted places using a similar approach.
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