We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Automotive Application of Chemically Foamed rPET
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers produced injection-molded automotive components from foamed recycled PET using a combination of endothermic and exothermic blowing agents and flame retardants, finding that the foamed rPET parts met key automotive mechanical and fire-safety requirements while reducing material weight and using recycled feedstock.
This study investigated the automotive applicability of parts produced from a newly developed foamed recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET). The injection molded part contained a combination of both endothermic and exothermic foaming agents and phosphorus (Exolit OP 1240) (OP)- and melamine polyphosphate (MPP)-based flame retardant agents. The parts were produced using a breathing mold technique to achieve a suitable level of foaming. The aim was to produce lighter parts made of recycled material that also complied with the fire safety automotive industry standards. Computer tomographic scans revealed the foam structure formed successfully, which contributed to an improved strength-to-weight ratio. The scans further showcased that larger cells tended to form in the thicker areas within the part, while smaller cells generally formed in the thinner areas. Finite element simulations showed that the large cell formation in the thicker parts had no effect on the part's load bearing property, and there were not stress concentration points after the boundary conditions were defined. The sample produced from the material was determined to be a possible replacement of small-sized automotive components.
More Papers Like This
Endothermic–Exothermic Hybrid Foaming of Recycled PET Blends
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers developed a hybrid endothermic-exothermic foaming process for recycled PET blends, producing lightweight foam materials from post-consumer plastic with controlled cell structure, demonstrating a route to add value to recycled PET while reducing the environmental burden of its long environmental persistence.
PET foaming: development of a new class of rheological additives for improved processability
AI summary Read the abstract
This paper describes development of rheological additives to improve PET foaming for lightweight packaging, as an alternative to hard-to-recycle foamed polystyrene. Replacing polystyrene foam with more recyclable materials is important for reducing ocean microplastic pollution from packaging waste.
Synergistic Effect of Dual Additive System on Molecular Structure and Foaming Properties of Recycled PET
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers investigated how dual chain extenders (PMDA and Joncryl ADR4468) improve the melt strength and foamability of recycled PET bottle flakes. The optimized formulation produced uniform low-density foam cells comparable to virgin PET, demonstrating a viable path for upgrading mechanically recycled PET into high-value foam products.
Investigation of Recycled Expanded Polyamide Beads through Artificial Ageing and Mechanical Recycling as a Proof of Concept for Circular Economy
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers simulated a full automotive life cycle for expanded polyamide foam beads, including artificial aging and mechanical recycling, finding that the recycled material showed signs of polymer degradation — including broader molecular weight distribution and increased crystallinity — while still yielding a 100% recycled-content particle foam suitable for lightweight vehicle components.
Lightweight carbon foam obtained from post-use polyethylene terephthalate bottles, properties, and potential applications
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers synthesized lightweight carbon foam from post-consumer PET plastic bottles via a controlled carbonization process, characterizing the foam's physical and chemical properties and exploring its potential as a value-added material from plastic waste recycling.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.