DE102009013389B4 - Apparatus and method for classification based on the presence or absence of bromine and methods of processing a recycled synthetic resin material - Google Patents

Abstract

Classifying means (110) which classifies a resin piece (2) based on presence or absence of bromine, which contains:
an X-ray source (1) emitting a continuous X-ray beam (6);
a first filter (3) containing bromine;
a second filter (4) including an element having an X-ray absorption edge on a higher energy side than an X-ray absorption edge of bromine;
a first X-ray detector (5, 15, 36) comprising a first X-ray beam (6) passed through the first filter (3) and the resin piece (2) from the continuous X-ray beam (6) emitted by the X-ray beam Source (1), and a second X-ray detector (5, 16, 46) detecting a second X-ray beam (6) passed through the second filter (4) and the resin piece (2) ; and
a control unit (21) which classifies the synthetic resin piece (2) based on detection data from the first X-ray beam (6) and the second X-ray beam (6).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a classifier, a classification method and a method of processing a recycled resin material used in recycling an article, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for classifying an article based on the presence or absence of bromine in a synthetic resin in recycling the synthetic resin, and a method of processing a recycled synthetic resin material by the above classification method.

Description of the prior art

The EU RoHS Directive has been in force since July 2006 and six elements, namely mercury, cadmium, lead, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) have been identified as substances whose use should be limited. Accordingly, in the recycling of an electric or electronic product, a development of a technique for assisting in determining the presence or absence of PBB or PBDE, particularly used as a flame retardant containing bromine, has been applied to pieces of synthetic resin which have been incorporated herein by reference Slicing a product made into pieces has attained an importance.

The above-mentioned bromine is one of halogen elements and is a substance having a specific physical property and a high reactivity. For example, PBB or PBDE as described above, a polystyrene resin, a polypropylene resin and an ABS resin can be used as an excellent flame retardant having a bromine content in a high concentration. In addition, bromine is a substance used as a raw material of an organic intermediate, an inorganic chemical product, a photosensitive material, a dye, a drug, a pesticide, a flame retardant and the like. In addition, bromine is a helpful substance that can be used for an interior decoration material in an airplane or Shinkansen train compartment, and bromine is also included in an electrical or electronic product in many elements.

However, bromine is particularly highly toxic and pollutes the environment significantly. Therefore, in recycling synthetic resin pieces produced by cutting a product into pieces, the resin pieces should be classified into those containing bromine and those containing no bromine for recycling or waste disposal.

For example, the Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication 05-131176 the following method as a method for identifying and classifying objects which are different in their chemical composition. In particular, this publication describes a classification method by irradiating a resin product such as a resin container to be recycled by electromagnetic radiation, detecting a transmission amount of emitted electromagnetic radiation by the resin product, and finding out whether the resin product belongs to plastic. In general, when substances identical in their thickness are compared with each other, the substance composed of an element larger in atomic number tends to have a larger absorption of electromagnetic radiation and to have a lower transfer thereof than a substance composed of an element having a lower atomic number. The one described above Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication 05-131176 uses this property. Additionally, the Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication 05-131176 a method of irradiating a portion whose thickness is the lowest of the resin product to detect a signal because properties of absorption and transmission of electromagnetic radiation in a portion of a large thickness or in a folded portion of the resin container vary.

For analysis by irradiation, devices are described in the prior art which use X-radiation as electromagnetic radiation, which passes through filters and objects to be examined and is detected by corresponding detectors. In document DE 691 21 636 T2 For example, a radiation-type X-ray image pickup method is proposed for diagnosing internal damaged parts of the human body. document DE 699 08 751 T2 relates to an X-ray examination apparatus for creating X-ray images of an object with an adjustable X-ray filter. In document EP 1 069 429 A2 Also, a method and apparatus for receiving X-ray images, for use in medicine or in non-destructive testing is described.

The detection method which is based on a transmission amount of electromagnetic radiation, as in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication 05-131176 , is also applicable to the classification of a resin piece based on the detection of a particular element such as bromine. In general, however, synthetic resin pieces produced by cutting various products into pieces contain a large number of synthetic resin pieces whose thicknesses vary. In addition, it is not always true that there is a portion of a small thickness, such as a resin container. Therefore, no accurate classification by the method of detecting a transfer amount by a portion of a small thickness in a resin piece as in the Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication 05-131176 , be achieved.

Low accuracy in the above classification results in classification for the presence of synthetic resins containing bromine among synthetic resins containing no bromine. Therefore, the average bromine concentration in a recycled synthetic resin material which should not contain bromine increases. When such a classification whose accuracy is low is repeated, a bromine concentration in the recycled synthetic resin material becomes higher. When the concentration of bromine contained in the recycled synthetic resin material exceeds a RoHS criterion value, the recycled synthetic resin material can no longer be used in a product complying with the requirements of RoHS.

Outline of the invention

The present invention has been made in view of the problem described above. It is an object of the present invention to provide a classifying device and a classification method for suppressing an influence of a thickness of resin pieces in a determination result in determining presence or absence of bromine, which is a certain element, in resin pieces, and To provide a method of processing a recycled synthetic resin material by the above classification method.

In the present invention, a classifier which classifies a resin piece based on presence or absence of bromine which is a certain element includes the following components. First, the classifier includes an X-ray source emitting a continuous X-ray, a first filter containing bromine, and a second filter containing an element having an X-ray absorption edge on a higher energy side than an X-ray absorption edge of bromine In addition, the classifying means includes a first X-ray detector detecting a first X-ray beam passed through the first filter and the resin piece from the continuous X-ray emitted from the X-ray source, a second X-ray detector detects a second X-ray beam passed through the second filter and the resin piece, and a control unit that classifies the resin piece based on detection data from the first X-ray and the second X-ray.

In addition, a classification method for classifying a synthetic resin piece based on the presence or absence of bromine according to the present invention includes the following steps. Initially, the classification method includes the step of detecting a transmission intensity of an X-ray beam transmitted through a first filter containing bromine and the resin piece from a continuous X-ray emitted from an X-ray source. Similarly, the classification method includes the step of detecting a transmission intensity of an X-ray beam passing through a second filter including an element having an X-ray absorption flank on a higher energy side than an X-ray absorption flank of bromine and the resin piece , Then, the classification method includes the step of determining an expected thickness of the resin piece based on the detected transmission intensity of the X-ray that has passed through the first filter and the resin piece, and first data that detects a relationship between the X-ray transmission intensity that detects When a test piece formed of a synthetic resin containing no bromine is irradiated with an X-ray beam passed through the first filter and a thickness of the test piece. Similarly, the classification method includes the step of determining an expected transmission intensity to be detected from the X-ray passed through the second filter and the resin piece, based on the expected thickness and second data, which detects a relationship between an X-ray transmission intensity that detects when the test piece is irradiated with an X-ray beam passed through the second filter and indicate the thickness of the test piece. Then, the classification method includes the step of classifying the resin piece based on a Comparison of a detected transmission intensity of the X-ray passed through the second filter and resin piece with the expected transmission intensity.

In addition, a classification method including the following steps can also be performed with the use of the classifier similar to that described above. A classification method of classifying a resin piece based on the presence or absence of bromine according to the present invention includes the following steps. First, the classification method includes the step of detecting a transmission intensity of an X-ray passing through a first filter containing bromine and the resin piece from a continuous X-ray emitted from an X-ray source. Similarly, the classification method includes the step of detecting a transmission intensity of an X-ray beam passing through a second filter including an element having an X-ray absorption flank on a higher energy side than an X-ray absorption flank of bromine and the resin piece , In addition, the classification method includes the step of classifying the resin piece based on a comparison of data having a relationship between the transmission intensity of the X-ray passed through the first filter and the resin piece and the transmission intensity of the X-ray transmitted through the second filter and the synthetic resin piece is traversed, with reference data provided previously.

The above classifier and the classification method include two filters and determine the transmission intensity through the resin piece based on data showing a relationship between an X-ray transmission intensity detected when a test piece containing no bromine and a resin of an identical type is formed into a synthetic resin for the resin piece, irradiated with an X-ray, and indicates a thickness of the test piece. Meanwhile, a classification device and a classification method capable of classifying a synthetic resin piece using only a single filter can be implemented by further defining a condition for a method of outputting a continuous X-ray, a material, and an amount of a filter, a piece of synthetic resin and an extent are determined. A classifier according to the present invention is a classifier that classifies a resin piece based on the presence or absence of bromine. The classifier initially includes as components an x-ray source which emits a continuous x-ray beam and a filter formed of molybdenum. In addition, the classifier also includes an x-ray detector. In addition, the classifier includes a controller that classifies the resin piece based on detection data from the X-ray detector. The control unit includes a storage unit which preliminarily stores data of an X-ray transmission intensity detected when a test piece containing no bromine and made of a resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece is irradiated with an X-ray passed through the filter, and an operation unit which detects the resin piece based on a comparison of a transmission intensity of the X-ray passed through the filter and the resin piece with the data of the X-ray transmission intensity detected when the test piece containing no bromine is irradiated with the X-ray beam.

In addition, a classification method of classifying a piece of synthetic resin based on the presence or absence of bromine according to the present invention includes the steps of detecting a first transmission intensity of a continuous X-ray beam passing through a first filter formed of molybdenum. and a test piece formed of a synthetic resin containing no bromine is traversed, detecting a second transmission intensity of a synthetic resin piece to be classified in place of the synthetic resin piece containing no bromine, comparing the first transmission intensity, and second transmission intensity with each other, and classifying the synthetic resin piece based on the comparison result.

In the context of the classifier and the classification method as described above, a classifier and a classifying method, which will be described later, are also still possible. A classifier according to the present invention is a classifier which classifies a resin piece based on presence or absence of bromine containing an X-ray source emitting a continuous X-ray and a resin filter. In addition, the classifier also includes an x-ray detector. In addition, the classifier includes a control unit incorporating the Resin piece based on detection data classified by the X-ray detector. The synthetic resin filter has a thickness which allows a larger absorption of the X-ray beam than the absorption of the X-ray beam by the resin piece. The control unit includes a storage unit which preliminarily stores data of an X-ray transmission intensity detected when a test piece containing no bromine and made of a resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece is irradiated with an X-ray which has passed through the filter, and an operation unit which detects the resin piece based on a comparison of the transmission intensity of the X-ray passed through the filter and the resin piece with the data of the X-ray transmission intensity detected when Test piece, which contains no bromine, is irradiated with the X-ray beam, classified.

In addition, a classification method for classifying a resin piece based on presence or absence of bromine according to the present invention includes the steps of detecting a third transmission intensity of a continuous X-ray transmitted through a synthetic resin filter having a thickness has a larger absorption of an X-ray than an absorption of an X-ray by the resin piece, and a test piece formed of a synthetic resin which does not contain bromine has undergone detecting a fourth transmission intensity of a resin piece which is used instead of the resin piece , which contains no bromine, is to be classified, comparing the third transmission intensity with the fourth transmission intensity, and comparing the synthetic resin piece based on the comparison result.

According to each classifying means and each classification method, as described above, of the present invention, the following is achieved. In particular, in determining the presence or absence of bromine, which is a certain element, in a resin piece which is an object to be classified, the influence of a thickness of a synthetic resin piece in a determination result can be reduced and the probability of a defective one Determination of the result can be reduced. Therefore, a bromine concentration in the resin piece classified by the above classifying means and the classification method is sufficiently small. Therefore, according to a method of processing a recycled synthetic resin material using the above classification method, a recycled synthetic resin material whose bromine content is sufficiently low and which can be repeatedly recycled can be provided.

The foregoing and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

list of figures

• 1 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram indicating a device comprising a synthetic resin piece based on the presence or absence of bromine in an embodiment. FIG 1 classified by the present invention.
• 2 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing details of a measuring section for determining presence or absence of bromine in embodiment. FIG 1 of the present invention.
• 3 is a curve which is an example of. dependency of X-ray transmission versus X-ray energy in a first filter containing bromine.
• 4 FIG. 12 is a graph indicating a dependency of X-ray transmission versus X-ray energy in a filter formed of molybdenum. FIG
• 5A FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram indicating a filter made of molybdenum which is used as a second filter. FIG.
• 5B Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram indicating a filter constructed such that a surface of a holding body composed mainly of carbon is coated with a thin film of molybdenum used as a second filter.
• 5C Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram indicating a filter constructed such that a thin film of molybdenum is formed only on a major surface of a holding body used as a second filter.
• 6 FIG. 12 shows a calibration waveform indicating a relationship between a thickness of a test piece and a transmission intensity of a continuous X-ray passed through a first filter and the test piece. FIG.
• 7 FIG. 12 shows a calibration waveform indicating a relationship between a thickness of a test piece and a transmission intensity of a continuous X-ray passed through a second filter and the test piece. FIG.
• 8th FIG. 10 is a graph showing a dependence of an X-ray transmission on an X-ray energy in polypropylene having a thickness of 1 mm and a dependence of an X-ray transmission on an X-ray energy in polypropylene, which is 1 mm thick and contains 1% by mass bromine.
• 9 FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a classification method according to the embodiment. FIG 1 of the present invention.
• 10 FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing details of the step (S100) or the step (S200) in the flowchart of FIG 9 displays.
• 11 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram which merely classifies a measurement portion formed of an X-ray source, a filter, a resin piece, and an X-ray detector in a classifier which classifies a resin piece based on presence or absence of bromine; FIG. according to one embodiment 2 of the present invention.
• twelve FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing only a measuring portion formed of an X-ray source, a filter, a synthetic resin piece, an X-ray image intensifier, and a motor in a classifying device that includes a piece of synthetic resin based on presence or absence of Bromine classified according to one embodiment 3 of the present invention.
• 13 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram which merely classifies a measurement portion formed of an X-ray source, a filter, a resin piece and an X-ray detector in a classifier which classifies a resin piece based on presence or absence of bromine; FIG. according to one embodiment 4 of the present invention.
• 14 is a graph showing a change over time in X-ray transmission intensity passing through each cell in a line sensor 36 is detected.
• 15 is a graph showing a change over time in X-ray transmission intensity passing through each cell in a line sensor 46 is detected.
• 16 Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram which merely classifies a measuring portion formed of an X-ray source, a filter, a resin piece, and an X-ray detector in a classifying device which classifies a piece of synthetic resin based on presence or absence of bromine; according to one embodiment 5 of the present invention.
• 17 FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a classification method according to an embodiment. FIG 5 of the present invention.
• 18 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing only a measuring portion formed of an X-ray source, a filter, a resin piece and an X-ray detector in a classifying device for classifying a resin piece based on presence or absence of bromine according to FIG an embodiment 6 of the present invention.
• 19 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram that identifies a device that classifies a piece of synthetic resin based on the presence or absence of bromine, according to one embodiment 7 of the present invention.
• 20 is a graph obtained by, for each thickness of a test piece containing no bromine, a transmission intensity detected when the test piece is irradiated with a continuous X-ray beam passed through a first filter and a transmission intensity; which is detected when the test piece is irradiated with a continuous X-ray beam passed through a second filter.
• 21 is a curve obtained by measuring, for each thickness of a test piece containing a prescribed amount of bromine, a transmission intensity which is detected when the test piece is irradiated with a continuous X-ray beam passed through the first filter; a transmission intensity detected when the test piece is irradiated with a continuous X-ray beam passed through the second filter is printed out.
• 22 is a curve, which 105 and 106 in combination.
• 23 FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a classification method according to an embodiment. FIG 8th of the present invention.
• 24 is a flowchart showing details of the step ( S71 ) or the step ( S72 ) in the flowchart in 23 displays.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each embodiment, a portion assigned the same function has the same assigned reference numerals, and a description thereof will not be repeated unless necessary.

(Embodiment 1)

In the following description, referring to a "presence or absence" of bromine, an example in which bromine is contained in a ratio equal to or higher than a certain prescribed ratio is determined, for example, as the presence of bromine or a bromine content. On the other hand, an example in which bromine is not contained in a ratio equal to or higher than a certain prescribed ratio is determined, for example, as a non-existence of bromine or as a non-bromine-containing. The following are details of one embodiment 1 of the present invention mainly with reference to 1 and 2 described.

A classification device 110 according to the embodiment 1 from the present invention, as in 1 shown contains an x-ray source 1 which is a continuous x-ray beam 6 emitted, a first filter 3 and a second filter 4 as a measuring section 100 for determining a presence or absence of bromine, which is a particular element, as also in FIG 2 shown. In addition, the classifier contains 110 also an X-ray image intensifier 15 which serves as a first X-ray detector which detects an intensity of the continuous X-ray 6 which is from the X-ray source 1 is emitted and successively through the first filter 3 and a resin piece 2 , which is an object to be classified, has passed through. In addition, the classification device contains 110 an X-ray image intensifier 16 which serves as a second X-ray detector which detects an intensity of the continuous X-ray 6 detected, which was emitted from the X-ray source and successively through the second filter 4 and the resin piece 2 , which is an object to be classified, has passed through. Further, the classifier includes 110 a conveyor belt 7 , which is capable of, the resin piece 2 , which is an object to be classified, to move. For example, a piece of a polypropylene resin, a polystyrene resin, and an ABS resin is a synthetic resin piece 2 applicable. The classifier 110 which the embodiment 1 of the present invention is constructed to include two X-ray image intensifiers 15 and 16 contains, however, such structure is for the purpose of illustration only. Only a single X-ray image intensifier can be provided as long as there are continuous X-rays 6 , pass each through the first filter 3 and the second filter 4 be traversed can be detected. In addition, a data processing device 21 to the X-ray image intensifier 15 and 16 which serves as a control unit which is a synthetic resin to which a determination should be made based on X-ray detection data of X-ray image intensifiers 15 and 16 classified. The data processing device 21 contains a storage unit 26 and an operating unit 27 each serving as a memory and a CPU from a computer. In addition, a display device, which X-ray images 28 and 29 to allow an operator to easily verify data sent to the data processing device 21 be transmitted.

In addition, the classifier contains 110 according to the embodiment 1 from the present invention, a synthetic resin piece supply device 24 for feeding the synthetic resin piece 2 to the measuring section 100 for determining a presence or absence of bromine, wherein the resin piece is supplied from this device. Further, the classifier includes 110 an air blower 20 with an electromagnetic valve for sorting the resin pieces 2 in two groups after the measurement by the measuring section 100 for determining the presence or absence of bromine, and containers 22 and 23 for classifying and storing resin pieces 2 based on the presence or absence of bromine.

The continuous x-ray 6 is used as the x-ray beam coming from the x-ray source 1 is emitted. The continuous x-ray 6 is generated by irradiating, for example, a tungsten target with electron beams to emit an X-ray having a wavelength corresponding to an energy loss in the electrons when the electron orbit passes through the Coulomb field of Nuclei are bent and braked. Since the collision is diverse, this X-ray beam has a continuous wavelength distribution, and is thus referred to as a continuous X-ray beam. A device for obtaining a small X-ray light source by irradiating a target with electron beams as described above is commercially available. By projecting an image formed by an X-ray beam through the piece of synthetic resin 2 undergoing an X-ray image intensifier 15 as in embodiment 1 of the present invention, an X-ray source of smaller size can reduce the likelihood of blur from a projected image. Therefore, a point light source preferably becomes an X-ray source 1 used.

The first filter 3 contains bromine, which is a specific element. Here is the first filter 3 a synthetic resin of an identical type to a synthetic resin for a resin piece 2 On the other hand, the second filter contains 4 an element having an X-ray absorption edge on a higher energy side than an X-ray absorption edge of bromine which is the particular element. Here, the X-ray absorption edge refers to an energy value of a continuous X-ray beam 6 in which a ratio of an absorbed continuous x-ray beam 6 increases abruptly. Thus, the first filter 3 and the second filter 4 different transmission properties between the inside and the outside of an energy range in which absorption by bromine is large. The first filter 3 achieves higher X-ray absorption and less X-ray transmission in an energy range where absorption by bromine occurs compared to the second filter 4 , The first filter 3 achieves lower X-ray absorption in other areas. The first filter 3 Namely, permits X-ray transmission, which is in an energy range which is relatively smaller than the X-ray absorption edge of bromine, where absorption by a resin member or the like is large in contrast to the first filter 3 the second filter achieves 4 a low X-ray absorption and a high X-ray transmission in a range which is slightly higher in energy than the absorption edge of bromine, that is in a range in which the energy absorbed by the bromine is large. More precisely, the second filter achieves 4 a low absorption and a high transmission in a wavelength range ranging from the absorption edge of bromine to the X-ray absorption edge of a different element contained in the second filter. Therefore, the second filter allows 4 a relatively larger transmission of the X-ray beam in the energy range at which absorption by bromine takes place than the transmission thereof in wider ranges.

3 FIG. 1 shows a calculation example in which the first filter contains 100% bromine and the first filter has a density of 1 g / cm ³ and a thickness of 300 μm. In the graph in FIG 3 the abscissa represents the energy magnitude of an incident x-ray beam, and the ordinate represents the transmission of the x-ray beam incident on the filter. The x-ray absorption edge of bromine is an energy value of 13000 eV at which the transmission abruptly decreases. The absorption by bromine is large in an energy range not lower than about 13000 eV where the X-ray absorption edge of bromine is and is not higher than about 20000 eV. In the example shown in this figure, the transmission in this range is not higher than 20%, that is, the absorption is not less than 80%. The first filter 3 allows a transmission of the X-ray in a large ratio in an energy range lower than 13000 eV, which is the absorption edge of bromine, that is, in an energy range in which the bromine allows transmission in a large ratio. The energy range lower than 13000 eV is a wavelength range in which absorption by a resin member is large. In this range, the absorption by the resin member is large because the energy is lower. However, the absorption ratio by the resin member is lower than that by bromine, therefore even though the first filter 3 which contains a synthetic resin containing bromine as described above, an X-ray is transmitted in a wavelength region in which absorption by the resin member is large.

Thus, to implement such a filter, the first filter should be 3 mainly contain bromine, for example. Alternatively, the first filter 3 be formed of a mixture containing a solid, soft carbon or an element which is lighter than carbon. For example, a synthetic resin containing beryllium bromide or bromide in a high concentration is preferably used to facilitate the formation or handling of a filter. For example, a known technique for adding bromide to a synthetic resin as a bromide-based fire retardant is already available as a technique for adding bromide to a polystyrene resin, a polypropylene resin, an ABS resin, and the like. A resin material containing about 20% bromine in mass ratio is also commercially available, and such material may be as is or with a concentration of bromine in the Material which is raised for use can be used.

wobei d (g/cm³) die Dichte des Filters darstellt und t₁ (µm) eine Dicke von dem Filter darstellt. Wenn der Filter beispielsweise eine Dichte von 1 hat, ist die Dicke vorzugsweise nicht kleiner als 130 µm und nicht größer als 1000 µm. Wenn die Dichte von Brom in dem Filter verdoppelt wird, wird die Dicke vorzugsweise halbiert.Since the ratio of bromine contained in the filter is higher, especially when a density of bromine or a thickness of the filter containing bromine and a mixture is larger, a ratio of a continuous X-ray transmission intensity is between one Energy range which is not higher than the absorption edge of bromine, and an energy range which is not lower than the absorption edge thereof, higher. Namely, because the ratio of bromine, which in the first filter 3 is higher, is a decrease in the energy range at which the absorption by bromine contained in the resin piece 2 is included, is great, superior. On the other hand, an absolute size of the transmitted X-ray is reduced, whereby a signal intensity for measuring the intensity of the X-ray and determining a presence or absence of bromine can not be ensured. More specifically, since an absolute size of the transmitted X-ray is lower in the energy range which is not lower than the absorption edge of bromine, the signal intensity can not be ensured. In order to suppress such a situation, the amount of bromine contained in the filter should be in an appropriate range. Specifically, a ratio of an X-ray transmission intensity between the energy range which is not higher than the absorption edge of bromine and the energy range which is not lower than the absorption edge thereof is preferably higher than 5: 1. In addition, in order to effectively use the output signal intensity in determining the presence or absence of bromine, the X-ray transmission in the energy range which is not higher than the absorption edge of bromine is preferably not lower than 0.1. In order to satisfy the above conditions, the following relation condition is preferably satisfied: $$130\le {\text{<figure-callout id="1" label="dt" filenames="DE102009013389B4\_0002.png,DE102009013389B4\_0005.png" state="{{state}}">dt</figure-callout>}}_1\le 1000$$

where d (g / cm ³ ) represents the density of the filter and t ₁ (μm) represents a thickness of the filter. For example, when the filter has a density of 1, the thickness is preferably not less than 130 μm and not more than 1000 μm. When the density of bromine in the filter is doubled, the thickness is preferably halved.

From the above, for example, when a filter formed of a mixture containing bromine is used as a first filter 3 is used and the presence or absence of bromine present in the resin piece 2 is contained, it is determined the following phenomenon take place when the continuous X-ray 6 through the first filter 3 passes. The first filter absorbs the X-ray in a large ratio in the energy range in which bromine absorbs the X-ray in a large ratio. Therefore, the transmitted X-ray has a low intensity in the energy range of about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV where the absorption by bromine is large. Therefore, the transmitted continuous X-ray becomes 6 less affected by bromine and depends mainly on the resin component in the resin piece 2 from. As described above, the absorption of the continuous X-ray depends 6 through the resin member of the thickness of the resin member in the resin piece 2 from. Therefore, the thickness of the resin piece 2 be estimated by detecting this transmission intensity.

In contrast, the second filter allows 4 a transmission in a high ratio of an X-ray in the energy range which is higher than the X-ray absorption edge of bromine, that is in the energy range in which the absorption by bromine takes place. Namely, a material having an X-ray absorption edge in an energy range higher than the X-ray absorption edge of bromine is preferable as a material for forming the second filter 4 used.

For example, a filter formed of molybdenum becomes the second filter 4 uses the abscissa and the ordinate in the graph in 4 are similar to those in the graph in 3 , When extracting data in 4 For example, a filter designed to have a molybdenum density of 10.22 and a molybdenum thickness of 50 μm is used. Based on 4 It can be seen that the energy transfer increases in a range from about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV, which is the energy range at which the absorption by bromine takes place in a high ratio, in contrast to the first filter 3 which contains bromine. Thus, using the molybdenum filter, the x-ray beam can be selectively transmitted in the energy range of about 13000 eV, which is the absorption edge of bromine, to about 20000 eV.

Therefore, for example, when the filter made of molybdenum is used as the second filter 4 is used and the presence or absence of bromine present in the resin piece 2 is contained, the presence or absence of bromine, which is contained in the synthetic resin piece 2 is included with high accuracy when the continuous x-ray beam 6 through the second filter 4 goes through for the following reasons. The energy sector, in where the absorption by bromine is large is in an energy range higher than the X-ray absorption edge of bromine, and this energy range is in a range of about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV as described above. By irradiating the second filter 4 , which is formed of molybdenum, with the continuous X-ray 6 Then, the transmission from the X-ray having an energy not lower than about 20000 eV, which is the absorption edge of molybdenum, decreases because the absorption by molybdenum from the X-ray energy which is not lower than about 20000 eV , increases. Therefore, the transmitted X-ray beam has a high intensity in the energy range of about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV where the absorption by bromine is large in a range from the X-ray absorption edge of bromine to the X-ray absorption edge of molybdenum. Therefore, for example, even though the X-ray image intensifier 15 , which serves as the X-ray detector, has no energy resolution, the presence or absence of bromine is detected with high accuracy.

In addition, from the reasons such as those for the filter formed of bromine and a mixture described above, a relationship of 25 ≦ t ₂ ≦ 180 is preferably satisfied, where t ₂ (μm) represents the thickness of the filter which made of molybdenum with a density of 10.22.

If selenium instead of bromine in the first filter 3 Also, as an element for absorbing the beam, a filter effect comparable to that of bromine can be obtained because a range of X-ray absorption by selenium is relatively close to that of bromine. Additionally, if niobium, technetium or ruthenium instead of molybdenum in the second filter 4 is used, a filtering effect comparable to that of molybdenum can be obtained because a range of X-ray absorption by these elements is relatively close to that of molybdenum.

As described above, the second filter 4 For example, may be formed of molybdenum, however, a structure in which a surface of a holding body, which mainly contains carbon or Bohr, is coated with a thin film, which is formed for example of molybdenum, as described above, can be used. A filter having a structure which can be used in any of 5A . 5B and 5C can be shown as the second filter 4 be used. In the in 5B or 5C shown second filter 4 is a holding body twelve same as a structure containing mainly carbon. The holding body twelve however, may contain a single substance containing 100% of carbon or a compound equal to a synthetic resin mainly containing carbon and containing a component in a chemical combination such as hydrogen or oxygen. Alternatively, the holding body twelve in a manner similar to that described above using Bohr instead of carbon. In addition, a thin film of niobium, technetium or ruthenium instead of molybdenum may be used as a thin film 13 be used.

The reason why the construction as described above is second filter 4 can be used is that carbon or Bohr has a low atomic number and a transmission in a high ratio of the emitted continuous X-ray 6 can allow. Therefore, a filter containing carbon or boron will have the performance as a second filter 4 do not hinder. In addition, since the holding body twelve contains a material which is a transmission of the continuous x-ray beam 6 permitting in a high ratio, is influencing the absorption of the continuous X-ray 6 low. Therefore, the equation 25 ≦ t ₂ ≦ 180, which is satisfied in connection with the thickness of the filter formed of molybdenum as described above, is also in connection with the second filter 4 , as in 5B or 5C shown, fulfilled. In a structure comprising a molybdenum thin film 13 on opposite major surfaces of the holder body twelve has, as in 5B shown is the sum of the thicknesses of the thin films 13 on both major surfaces as an optimum thickness of the molybdenum thin film 13 , based on the X-ray absorption found to understand. If, for example, an optimal thickness of the thin film 13 is equal to 100 microns, should be a thin film 13 , which has a thickness of 50 μm, are formed on both a major surface and the other major surface.

Principles for determining the presence or absence of bromine using the first filter 3 , which is formed of bromine and a mixture, and the second filter 4 which is formed of molybdenum, will now be as appropriate with reference to 1 and 2 described.

Before the measurement of, for example, the resin piece 2 in which a determination is currently to be made as to the presence or absence of bromine, first data representing a relationship between a transmission intensity detected when the continuous X-ray becomes 6 passing through the first filter 3 passes through a test piece which contains no bromine and from a synthetic resin of an identical type to a Synthetic resin for the resin piece 2 is formed, and indicate a thickness of the test piece, previously as a calibration curve 101 obtained. In addition, processing similar to that described above also becomes associated with the second filter 4 performed, leaving second data as a calibration curve 102 as obtained above. In the calibration graph 101 in 6 The abscissa represents a thickness of the test piece containing no bromine, and the ordinate represents an intensity of X-ray transmission through the filter formed of bromine and a mixture. In addition, in the calibration curve 102 in 7 also the abscissa and ordinate similar to those in the calibration curve 101 in 6 , The calibration curve 101 in 6 is obtained by the following procedure. First, a plurality of test pieces which are different in thickness, which do not contain bromine, which have a uniform thickness and a material of an identical type to a material for the resin piece 2 are trained, prepared. Then the continuous x-ray beam 6 from the X-ray source 1 to the first filter 3 which is formed of, for example, bromine and a mixture, and emitted to the test piece for each thickness described above to find a relationship between the obtained X-ray transmission intensity and the thickness of the test piece, thereby obtaining the 6 shown calibration curve 101 to get. Similarly, the continuous X-ray beam 6 from the X-ray source 1 to the second filter 4 , which is formed of, for example, molybdenum, and emitted to the test piece of any thickness described above to find a relationship between the obtained X-ray transmission intensity and the thickness of the test piece, thereby obtaining the 7 shown calibration curve 102 to get.

After the calibration waveforms are acquired, the data of the calibration waveform becomes 101 and the calibration curve 102 in the storage unit 26 in the data processing device 21 saved. Here's a measurement of the resin piece 2 in which a determination is made as to the presence or absence of bromine which is a particular element to be currently performed. Initially, the continuous x-ray beam 6 from the X-ray source 1 emitted and through the first filter 3 , which is formed of bromine and a mixture, and then through the resin piece 2 transfer. Then, as in 3 shown, the first filter absorbs 3 the X-ray beam in the energy range of about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV in a high ratio, and the X-ray transmission in this range is lower than in other energy ranges, which is also in 8th can be clearly seen. In 8th For example, the abscissa represents the energy magnitude of an incident x-ray beam and the ordinate represents the transmission of the incident x-ray beam. More specifically, a resin containing polypropylene containing 1.0 percent by mass bromine absorbs the x-ray beam in the energy range of about 13000 eV about 20,000 eV in a higher ratio compared with a pure polypropylene resin. In contrast, as in 8th X-ray transmission in the energy range not higher than about 13000 eV represents a similar value for both pure polypropylene and polypropylene containing 1.0 mass% of bromine. that the X-ray in the energy range not higher than about 13000 eV is absorbed by the bromine in a smaller ratio. The intensity of the continuous x-ray beam 6 passing through the first filter 3 is very low in the energy range from about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV. Therefore, only the X-ray in the energy range not higher than about 13000 eV becomes the resin piece 2 emitted. Then, regardless of the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece 2 , it can be estimated that absorption by only the resin component in the resin piece 2 takes place. Therefore, it is considered that a difference in transference is not due to the presence or absence of bromine present in the resin piece 2 is contained, but that the difference only by a difference in the thickness of the resin piece 2 is caused. Thus, the transmission intensity of the X-ray beam passing through the first filter 3 uhd the resin piece 2 is initially found out or previously prepared, and becomes the transmission intensity with the calibration waveform 101 which is in the storage unit 26 is stored in the data processing device 21 compared. Thus, an expected thickness of the resin piece 2 be determined.

Thereafter, the continuous X-ray beam 6 through the second filter 4 which is formed of molybdenum, and then through the resin piece 2 transfer. The second filter 4 allows a transmission in a high ratio of the X-ray in the energy range which is not lower than about 13000 eV, which represents the absorption edge of bromine. Therefore, when this x-ray beam to the resin piece 2 is emitted, an absorption of the X-ray beam by the resin component in the resin piece 2 and an absorption of the X-ray by bromine, soft in the resin piece 2 is included, both take place. Accordingly, a transmission intensity of the X-ray beam passing through the second filter becomes 4 and the resin piece 2 is traversed, and determines this transmission intensity with an expected transmission intensity, which is based on the calibration curve 102 can be calculated using the storage unit 26 and operating unit 27 in the data processing device 21 based on a value of the expected thickness of the resin piece 2 which was previously found compared. If there is a substantial difference as a result of this comparison, it is determined that absorption of the. X-ray occurred due to an incorporation of bromine. Concerning the determination criteria, a tolerable offset amount of the expected transmission intensity is previously set. Then, if a difference between the measured transmission intensity of the X-ray beam passing through the resin piece 2 is passed, and the expected transmission intensity is equal to or greater than the tolerable offset amount, it is determined that absorption of the X-ray took place. Thus, it is determined whether bromine in the resin piece 2 is included or not. Based on the above principles, there may be presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece 2 using the first filter 3 and the second filter 4 be determined.

Each of the X-ray image intensifiers 15 and 16 contains, for example, a plate which is coated with a fluorescent material which generates fluorescence upon receiving an incident X-ray, and a photovoltaic element which receives a fluorescence emitted from the plate and converts the fluorescence into an electrical signal , Some of the continuous x-ray 6 which is from the X-ray source 1 is absorbed by bromine, which is in the first filter 3 is contained, but the remainder is transferred, and some of the remainder is due to the resin component or bromine present in the resin piece 2 is absorbed, but the rest is transferred therefrom. In addition, some of the rest is through the conveyor belt 7 absorbed, but the rest of it is transferred. The finally remaining X-ray beam reaches the X-ray image intensifier 15 , Similarly, the continuous x-ray beam reaches 6 passing through the second filter 4 has passed through and finally remains, the X-ray image intensifier 16 , Since the photovoltaic element has a light receiving surface on which light receiving elements are arranged in a matrix, the X-ray image intensifier detects 15 the continuous x-ray beam 6 as a two-dimensional picture. If the resin piece 2 has a larger thickness, an absorption amount of the X-ray beam by the resin member increases. Accordingly, a transmission intensity of the detected X-ray beam in a portion corresponding to that where the X-ray beam is not through the resin piece 2 passes through, high, and is the transmission intensity of the detected X-ray beam in a portion corresponding to where the X-ray beam through the resin piece 2 goes through, low. More specifically, a weaker X-ray is detected in a portion corresponding to where the X-ray beam has passed through a portion of a large thickness of the synthetic resin. A signal from each cell in the X-ray image intensifier 15 is sent to the data processing device 21 transfer. The data is used to determine the presence or absence of bromine in the resin, and the presence or absence of bromine can also be visually shown as an X-ray image 28 of the resin piece 2 be checked.

The conveyor belt 7 used to move the piece of synthetic resin 2 to a desired position. More specifically, a material and a thickness which is one pass of the emitted continuous x-ray beam 6 allow, preferably in the conveyor belt 7 adapted. For example, a conveyor belt 7 made of thin synthetic fibers, such as nylon, is preferred. In addition, to the resin piece 2 finally in the step of classifying the resin piece 2 Blowing away with compressed air is the conveyor belt 7 preferably constructed such that it has net-like holes.

After the X-ray image intensifier 15 which receives X-ray, which finally through the resin piece 2 is passed through, the piece of synthetic resin 2 on the conveyor belt 7 moves and moves to a position above the X-ray image intensifier 16 , Here again becomes something of the continuous X-ray 6 which is from the X-ray source 1 is emitted, absorbed by molybdenum, which in the second filter 4 is contained, but the rest thereof is transferred, and some of this residue is by the resin or bromine, which in the resin piece 2 is absorbed, but the rest is transferred therefrom. In addition, some of this rest will be through the conveyor belt 7 absorbed, but the rest of it is transferred. The finally remaining X-ray beam reaches the X-ray image intensifier 16 , In one example, where two x-ray sources 1 , as in 1 and 2 , the two x-ray sources must be provided 1 not necessarily identical in targets, acceleration voltages of electron beams, currents and the like. Since the photovoltaic element has a light receiving surface on which light receiving elements are arranged in a matrix, the X-ray image intensifier detects 16 the continuous x-ray beam 6 as a two-dimensional picture. A signal from each cell in the X-ray image intensifier 16 will be at the Data processing device 21 transfer. The data is used to determine the presence or absence of bromine in the resin, and the presence or absence of bromine can also be visually seen as an X-ray image 29 of the resin piece 2 be checked.

As the determination in many synthetic resin pieces 2 be made immediately, are preferably X-ray image intensifier 15 and 16 In addition, in order to detect an X-ray as an image, a cell size (more specifically, a distance between cells) is the X-ray image intensifier 15 and 16 preferably sufficiently smaller, for example, as small as about 1/5, as the size of the resin piece 2 , For example, in an example where the cell size is not sufficiently small, for example, a distance between the X-ray source becomes 1 and the resin piece 2 by X1, and a distance between the resin piece 2 and the X-ray image intensifier 15 or 16 X2, for example, X1 is made shorter and X2 is made longer to satisfy the relationship X1 <X2. Is the distance between the x-ray source 1 and the resin piece 2 denoted by X1, and becomes the distance between the resin piece 2 and the X-ray image intensifier 15 denoted by X2, the gain is expressed by (X1 + X2) / X1. As a projection image of the resin piece 2 which is on the X-ray image intensifier 15 or 16 projected image can be magnified at any gain, the projected image may thus be large in relation to the cell size. As a result, an intensity distribution of the X-ray beam passing through the resin piece 2 is traversed more clearly than a picture are captured.

Finally, the data processing device processes 21 the signals from the X-ray image intensifiers 15 and 16 by removing from the included storage unit 26 and operating unit 27 full use is made of the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece 2 to determine.

While the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece 2 is determined moves the conveyor belt 7 the resin piece 2 to a location to which a tip end of an air blower 20 aligned with an electromagnetic valve. Here, when it is determined that the resin piece 2 Bromine, resulting from the operation by the data processing device 21 , an electromagnetic valve of the air blower 20 opened with an electromagnetic valve in response to a signal generated by the data processing device 21 is output to inject compressed air. The resin piece 2 is thus blown away and stored in a container 22 placed. If it is determined in a previous determination that the synthetic resin piece 2 contains no bromine, no signal from the data processing device 21 output. Accordingly, the electromagnetic valve of the air blowing device 20 with the electromagnetic valve is not activated, and is the piece of synthetic resin 2 resulting from a movement of the conveyor belt 7 , in a separate container 23 placed.

A classification method for determining the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece 2 will be described in more detail below. 10 is a flowchart similar to step ( S100 ) and the step ( S200 ). The classification method in the present embodiment 1 becomes with reference to the above 9 and 10 and 1 to 8th as appropriate described.

Before measuring the resin piece 2 in which a determination is to be made, the step of deriving first data ( S100 ) previously performed. Here, the first data refers to data showing a relationship between the intensity of the X-ray, softer by both the first filter 3 and the test piece, which are arranged in series, and indicate the thickness of the test piece. To derive this first data, first the step of preparing a test piece ( S1000 ), as shown in the flowchart in FIG 10 shown. In this step, a plurality of test pieces having a different thickness, which contain no bromine, which have a uniform thickness and a resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece 2 are prepared as described above.

Hereinafter, the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray passed through the first (second) filter and the test piece ( S1001 ), carried out. In the step ( S1001 ), while the continuous x-ray beam 6 from the X-ray source 1 is emitted to subsequently through, for example, both the first filter 3 as well as the test piece, which are arranged in series as described above, a transmission intensity of the X-ray, which is traversed by both from the inside, detected for each thickness of the test piece. Thereafter, the process goes to the step of finding a relationship between the thickness and the detected transmission intensity ( S1002 ). This step becomes a calibration waveform 101 achieved by a relationship between the X-ray Transmission intensity, which in the preceding step ( S1001 ), and the thickness of the test piece is found out. As described above, this calibration waveform shows 101 that data obtained by mainly measuring a transmission intensity of the X-ray having an energy value not higher than about 13000 eV, which is the absorption edge of bromine.

Similarly, the step of deriving the second data ( S200 ) carried out. Here, the second data refers to data representing a relationship between the intensity of the X-ray transmitted through both the second filter 4 as well as through the test piece, which are arranged in series, and indicate the thickness of the test piece. For this data as well, as in the step for deriving the first data ( S100 ), the step of preparing a test piece ( S1000 ) initially performed. Thereafter, the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray passing through the first (second) filter and the test piece ( S1001 ), carried out. In the step ( S1001 ), while the continuous x-ray beam 6 from the X-ray source 1 is emitted to subsequently through, for example, both the second filter 4 as well as the test piece, which are arranged in series as described above, detects the transmission intensity of the X-ray beam which has passed through both of them for each thickness of the test piece. In the embodiment 1 From the present invention, a filter made of molybdenum is used as the second filter. Thereafter, the process goes to the step of finding a relationship between the thickness and the detected transmission intensity (FIG. S1002 ). In this step, a calibration curve is created 102 obtained by a ratio between the X-ray transmission intensity, which in the previous step ( S1001 ), and the thickness of the test piece is found out.

After the calibration curve 101 and the calibration waveform 102 obtained, becomes a measurement of the resin piece 2 in which the determination is currently made, carried out. Initially, the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray beam passing through the first filter and the resin piece ( S11 ), carried out. It is, as in 1 shown while the continuous x-ray beam from the x-ray source 1 is emitted to subsequently through, for example, both the first filter 3 as well as the resin piece 2 to pass through, which are arranged in series, the transmission intensity of the X-ray, which has passed through both of them detected. When performing the step ( S11 ) is in the embodiment 1 from the present invention, such as in 1 and 2 shown the arrangement such that the continuous x-ray beam 6 which is from the X-ray source 1 is emitted, first through the first filter 3 and then through the resin piece 2 passes. In addition, the arrangement is such that the resin piece 2 from the resin piece feeder 24 is fed and on the conveyor belt 7 is transported.

Thereafter, the step of determining an expected thickness of the resin piece (FIG. S13 ) carried out. Namely, the relationship between the intensity of the transmitted X-ray and the thickness of the resin used in the preceding step of deriving the first data (FIG. S100 ) is found with the transmission intensity data of the continuous X-ray beam 6 which is at the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray which has passed through the first filter and the resin piece ( S11 ), is compared. Then, processing for calculating an expected thickness of the resin piece becomes 2 carried out. This processing can be easily done by performing a calculation in the memory unit 26 and operating unit 27 in the data processing device 21 is carried out. In embodiment 1 from the present invention, a method for measuring a height of the resin piece 2 by the use of an offset calibrator which, for example, ultrasound or light from above the resin piece 2 used as a method for measuring a thickness of the resin piece 2 be used. In this case, since the step ( S11 ) to the step (S13) by the method of measuring the height of the resin piece 2 replaced by the use of an offset calibrator using, for example, ultrasound or light, the x-ray source 1 and the X-ray image intensifier 15 be omitted with the first filter inserted therebetween.

In the same manner as above, the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray passing through the second filter and the resin piece ( S21 ), carried out. More precisely, the conveyor belt moves 7 the resin piece 2 to a position below the second filter 4 , In this state, while the continuous x-ray beam 6 from the X-ray source 1 is emitted to successively through, for example, both the second filter 4 as well as the resin piece 2 which are arranged in series, through which Transmission intensity of the X-ray, which has passed through both of them detected.

Thereafter, the step for determining the expected transmission intensity ( S120 ) carried out. Namely, it becomes the expected intensity of the X-ray beam passing through the second filter 4 and the resin piece 2 goes through, found out by a full use of the storage unit 26 and the operating unit 27 which in the data processing device 21 based on the expected thickness of the resin piece 2 which previously in step ( S13 ) and the calibration curve 102 which in the step of deriving the second data ( S200 ) is made.

Hereinafter, the step of determining the presence or absence of bromine based on the comparison of the intensities (FIG. S121 ) carried out. More specifically, the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece becomes 2 based on the comparison of the expected transmission intensity, which in the previous step ( S120 ), with the transmission intensity being used in step ( S21 ) is determined. The data of the calibration curve 102 are data of transmission intensity through the resin which does not contain bromine. Therefore, for example, when there is a difference equal to or larger than the tolerable offset amount set as a result of the above-described comparison, it is determined that the absorption of the X-ray beam occurred due to the incorporation of bromine. It should be noted that a tolerable offset amount of the expected transmission intensity serving as a criterion for determination has been previously set. For example, the tolerable offset size is within 5% of the value of the expected transmission intensity. Then, if a difference between the measured transmission intensity of the X-ray beam passing through the resin piece 2 and the expected transmission intensity is equal to or greater than the tolerable offset amount, it is determined that the absorption from the X-ray occurred due to the presence of bromine.

Finally, the step of classifying the resin piece ( S122 ) carried out. The electromagnetic valve from the air blower 20 with the electromagnetic valve is activated in response to a signal generated by the data processing device 21 according to a determination result in the preceding step ( S121 ), opened to compressed air to the resin piece 2 to inject, which is determined to be bromine-containing The resin piece 2 is thus blown away and stored in a container 22 placed. If it is determined in the foregoing determination that the resin piece 2 contains no bromine, no signal from the data processing device 21 output. Accordingly, the electromagnetic valve of the air blowing device 20 with the electromagnetic valve is not actuated, and is the piece of synthetic resin 2 resulting from a movement of the conveyor belt 7 in a separate container 23 placed. Through the above steps, the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece can 2 can be determined, and the classification can be performed.

That in the container 23 stored piece of synthetic resin 2 is a synthetic resin piece 2 in which it is determined by the high accuracy classification method that it contains no bromine, and the likelihood of introducing a resin piece 2 , which contains bromine, is low. That's why it's in the container 23 stored piece of synthetic resin 2 a recycled synthetic resin material which is repeatedly recyclable for a product in which a bromine concentration is limited. The recycled synthetic resin material can thus be processed. In addition, the synthetic resin piece 2 , which contains bromine, which is in the container 22 is also recyclable in a product in which a bromine concentration is not limited, or it can be used as a thermally recycled fuel. Therefore, by the method for processing the recycled synthetic resin material as described above, an efficiency in recycling the synthetic resin piece can 2 be significantly improved.

For example, the recycled synthetic resin material contained in the container 23 is stored as a recycled synthetic resin material for use in a newly produced electrical appliance through a process of classification such as post-shredding or cleaning.

In embodiment 1 of the present invention are the synthetic resin pieces 2 which are currently classified, finely cut pieces of a resin container or the like, which forms electrical products to be recycled. Although pieces of a flat shape and which have a uniform thickness may be included, a shape thereof is various, including an edge portion of a container or a curved piece. The thickness of the synthetic resin piece 2 which is currently being classified is not uniform. Accordingly, the transmission intensity is different depending on a location in a resin through which an X-ray beam is currently passing. Accordingly, a smallest value of a signal corresponding to an X-ray Intensity of each cell in an X-ray image intensifier 15 . 16 , as in 2 is transmitted as a transmission intensity through the resin piece 2 , subsequently passing through the first filter 3 and second filter 4 , which means that a provision for a section of a piece of synthetic resin 2 is made, which has a maximum thickness. A measurement of the resin piece 2 is performed for a portion having a largest thickness, wherein the measurement is independent of a shape of the resin piece 2 can be carried out.

The X-ray in the energy range which is not higher than the absorption edge of bromine passing through the first filter 3 which is to be traversed by bromine and a mixture is also absorbed by bromine, which in the resin piece 2 is included, although an absorption amount is small. Therefore, if the concentration of bromine, which is in the resin piece 2 is high, the thickness of the synthetic resin calculated by the above-described calculation method is slightly larger than a current thickness. However, when the bromine concentration is high, the X-ray passing through the second filter becomes 4 is passed through, which is formed of molybdenum, absorbed in a very high ratio. Therefore, the probability of erroneous determination of the presence or absence of bromine is small. In this aspect also becomes a measurement of the synthetic resin piece 2 preferably performed for a section which has the largest thickness. On the other hand, when measuring the resin piece 2 , whose bromine concentration appears to be low, and in which a determination is also difficult, an X-ray size caused by bromine in the resin piece 2 is absorbed, low, and may be a thickness of the resin piece 2 be measured with high accuracy. Therefore, the likelihood of adverse influence in the determination is low.

(Embodiment 2)

In one embodiment 2 of the present invention, as in a measuring section 120 in embodiment 2 in 11 shown, a first filter 3 and a second filter 4 on one side of the X-ray detection, for example below the conveyor belt 7 , provided. The continuous x-ray 6 which is from the X-ray source 1 is emitted, namely, first passes through the resin piece 2 and then passes through the first filter 3 and the second filter 4 , Thus, a similar effect is obtained even if the order of passage through the filter and the resin piece 2 is exchanged. In addition, an X-ray image intensifier 5 into two parts (such as the right side and the left side of the figure) for use, and may only be a single X-ray source 1 be provided so that the cost of the equipment can be reduced. The embodiment 2 differs from the embodiment 1 of the present invention only in the above feature.

(embodiment 3 )

In one embodiment 3 from the present invention, such as through a measuring section 130 in embodiment 3 in twelve shown is an engine 8th to the first filter 3 and the second filter 4 attached so that the filters can rotate. The first filter 3 and the second filter 4 namely, move in a rotating manner. Thus, the first filter 3 and the second filter 4 alternately between the X-ray source 1 and the resin piece 2 interposed. Therefore, the continuous X-ray happens 6 passing through the first filter 3 passed through, or the continuous x-ray beam 6 passing through the second filter 4 has passed through the resin piece 2 , and can be the continuous x-ray beam 6 through the X-ray image intensifier 5 be recorded. embodiment 3 is different from embodiment 1 of the present invention only in the above example. The first filter 3 and the second filter 4 can alternate between the resin piece 2 and the X-ray image intensifier 5 as in embodiment 2 from the present invention, instead of between the X-ray source 1 and the resin piece 2 be interposed. In addition, the conveyor belt 7 stopped or can the conveyor belt 7 at a speed no higher than a speed sufficient to provide an observation of an image on an X-ray image intensifier 5 to enable. In addition, in embodiment 3 from the present invention, such as through the measuring section 130 in embodiment 3 displayed as a single x-ray source 1 and a single X-ray image intensifier 5 are provided, costs of equipment are reduced.

(Embodiment 4)

In one embodiment 4 from the present invention, such as through a measuring section 140 in embodiment 4 in 13 displayed, become X-ray line sensors 36 and 46 is used as an X-ray detector instead of the X-ray image intensifier. embodiment 4 is different from embodiment 2 of the present invention only in the above feature.

The continuous x-ray 6 which is from the X-ray source 1 was emitted and through the resin piece 2 , The conveyor belt 7 and the first filter 3 is passed through cells 31 to 35 in the line sensor 36 detected. In 13 is a cell 35 hidden and not displayed. In addition, an X-ray beam is emitted from the X-ray source 1 was emitted and through the second filter 4 is passed through cells 41 to 45 in the line sensor 46 detected. Here the conveyor moves 7 in 13 from left to right at a prescribed speed.

In 14 The abscissa represents time periods and the ordinate represents an X-ray transmission intensity observed by each cell at all times. In 14 show curves 51 to 55 the change over time from the x-ray transmission intensity, each by cells 31 to 35 is detected. Additionally are also in 15 the abscissa and the ordinate are similar to those in 14 , and show the curves 61 to 65 each time change over time from X-ray transmission intensity, such as by cells 41 to 45 detected. In a curve 103 , as in 14 shown, and a curve 104 , as in 15 is shown, an X-ray transmission intensity detected by each cell in each line sensor is reduced when the resin piece 2 passes directly above each line sensor, that is, when the emitted continuous x-ray beam 6 through the resin piece 2 passes. In addition, for example, a time for detecting a decrease in the X-ray transmission intensity in the curve becomes 63 , which represents the x-ray transmission intensity emitted by the cell 43 is derived by delaying a time which is calculated by taking a distance between the line sensor 36 and line sensor 46 by the speed of the conveyor belt 7 from the time in the curve 53 , which determines the x-ray transmission intensity of a cell 33 is derived is calculated. In a system as above, the lowest value of the X-ray transmission intensity or an average value in a period of time when the X-ray transmission intensity is low becomes a transmission intensity of the X-ray beam through the resin piece 2 , following a pass through the first filter 3 and the second filter 4 , certainly. Then, the step of determining the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece becomes 2 with the same method as in embodiments 1 to 3 carried out.

When detecting subsequently moving objects, such as the resin pieces 2 in embodiment 4 from the present invention, a video output is provided for each scan using a line sensor, so that continuous processing of images can be easily achieved. When the line sensor is used, since a position at which a scan of an image is performed is not moved, distortion of an image when observing a moving image is less likely. Therefore, processing of the image can be easily performed.

The above description takes an example in which resin pieces 2 Piece by piece on a conveyor belt 7 above line sensors 36 and 46 move. Meanwhile, even if a plurality of synthetic resin pieces simultaneously above line sensors 36 and 46 At the same time, which are arranged side by side without being superposed on each other, there may be presence or absence of bromine in a plurality of resin pieces 2 be simultaneously determined by recognizing individual resin pieces based on signals indicating X-ray transmission intensity. In this case, a plurality of air blowing devices 20 with an electromagnetic valve between cell 31 and cell 35 in the line sensor 36 , as in 13 shown, provided. An air blower 20 with an electromagnetic valve, which is a position of a synthetic resin piece 2 which is determined to contain bromine is selected, and the electromagnetic valve thereof is operated to be the synthetic resin piece 2 to classify. Alternatively, an air blower 20 with an electromagnetic valve between the cell 31 and the cell 35 in the line sensor 36 , which in the measuring section 140 in embodiment 4 is shown to be moved. Alternatively, an air blower 20 be turned with an electromagnetic valve to be aligned in a desired direction. The arrangement in the measuring section 140 in embodiment 4 is such that the continuous x-ray beam 6 which is from the X-ray source 1 is emitted, first through the resin piece 2 passes through and then through the first filter 3 and the second filter 4 goes through, as in embodiment 2 , However, the arrangement may be such that the continuous x-ray beam 6 first passes through the filter and then through the resin piece 2 goes through, as in embodiment 1 from the present invention.

(Embodiment 5)

In embodiment 5 from the present invention, such as through a measuring section 150 in embodiment 5 in 16 is not an element corresponding to the first filter 3 as in embodiments 1 to 4 indicated by the present invention.

In embodiment 5 from the present invention, as in 16 displayed, becomes a filter 14 , which is formed of molybdenum used. Here is the filter 14 so prepared that a condition for increasing a property for allowing a transmission at a high ratio of the X-ray in the energy range of about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV in which absorption by bromine is recognizable, that is, the feature of the fitness, which is formed of molybdenum is met. More precisely, the filter is 14 formed of molybdenum is prepared so as to have a thickness which is not smaller than 50 nm and not larger than 100 nm. Thus, the filter becomes 14 , which is formed of molybdenum, in embodiment 5 of the present invention further in terms of a thickness of a filter formed of molybdenum serving as a second filter 4 in embodiments 1 to 4 can be used by the present invention defined. Therefore, the filter formed of molybdenum is in the embodiment 5 delimited by the present invention by a reference numeral 14 is marked. In addition, there is an acceleration voltage of electron beams in the X-ray source 1 is set to be not lower than 40 kV and not higher than 60 kV so that an intensity peak is in the energy range of about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV, and tungsten is targeted as a target to be irradiated by electron beams, around the continuous x-ray beam 6 to produce, prepared. In addition, the preparation is made such that a portion of the largest thickness of the resin piece 2 has a thickness which is not smaller than 1 mm and not larger than 3 mm. In performing the step of determining the presence or absence of bromine with the use of the classifier, which includes the measurement section 150 in embodiment 5 after the above conditions are satisfied, the probability of erroneous determination may be further reduced. The arrangement in 16 is such that an x-ray beam passes through a filter first 14 passes through, which is formed of molybdenum, and then through a piece of synthetic resin 2 passes. However, the arrangement may be such that an X-ray beam passes through the resin piece first 2 goes through and then through the filter 14 , which is formed of molybdenum, passes through. embodiment 5 is different from embodiment 1 of the present invention only in the above feature.

The process will be described below in sequence by the flowchart. As described above, the first filter is 3 in the embodiment 5 not provided. In addition, the step of determining the thickness of the resin piece becomes 2 also not performed. Nonetheless, the presence or absence of bromine can be determined with high accuracy. To achieve such a feature, components should be carefully prepared by the classifier, paying attention to scale and material. Initially, the resin piece preparation step (S31) is performed. More specifically, as described above, the preparation is made such that a portion of the largest thickness of the resin piece 2 has a thickness which is not smaller than 1 mm and not larger than 3 mm.

Thereafter, the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray beam (S32) is performed. More specifically, initially, as described above, an acceleration voltage of electron beams in the X-ray source becomes 1 , which in the measuring section 150 in embodiment 5 is initially set to be not lower than 40 kV and not higher than 60 kV. In addition, tungsten is prepared as a target to be irradiated with electron beams to the continuous X-ray 6 to create. Further, the filter becomes 14 which is formed of molybdenum, prepared so that it has a thickness of not less than 50 nm and not greater than 100 nm. Then, as in 16 shown the continuous x-ray beam 6 emitted, so that the continuous X-ray 6 subsequently through both the filter 14 which is formed of molybdenum, and the resin piece 2 Then, the transmission intensity (second transmission intensity) of the X-ray which passes through both the filter 14 , which is formed of molybdenum, as well as through the resin piece 2 is traversed, recorded during the continuous X-ray 6 is emitted.

As described above, the filter allows 14 , which is formed of molybdenum, here a more significant transmission of the X-ray beam in the energy range of about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV, in which a considerable absorption by bromine is achieved. Therefore, when the resin piece 2 Bromine, the absorption of the X-ray by bromine in a high ratio achieved when the X-ray beam through the resin piece 2 As described above, the absorption by the resin member from the X-ray is less likely in the energy range of about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV (see FIG. 8th ), and becomes the thickness of the resin piece 2 set to not smaller than 1 mm and not larger than 3 mm. Therefore, absorption of the X-ray by the resin member may be relatively small, and the absorption of the X-ray by bromine may be larger. If the resin piece 2 Contains bromine, the X-ray is absorbed in the energy range of about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV in a certain ratio, and when the resin piece 2 contains no bromine, the absorption is achieved only in an extremely low ratio.

Then, the step of determining the presence or absence of bromine (FIG. S33 ) carried out. Here, the second transmission intensity detected in the above-described step (S32) is initially detected with data of the first transmission intensity detected in the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the X-ray which is detected when the continuous X-ray 6 passing through the filter 14 , which is made of molybdenum, passed through, passes through a synthetic resin which does not contain bromine, which previously in the storage unit 26 in the data processing device 21 recorded are compared. For example, if there is a difference between them equal to or greater than a tolerable offset amount set in advance, it is determined that bromine is in the resin piece 2 is contained in a high ratio. The presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece 2 is thus determined. Finally, in the step of classifying the resin piece ( S34 ) the electromagnetic valve of the air blower 20 operated with an electromagnetic valve, and the classification is as described above, based on a determination result regarding the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece 2 carried out.

According to embodiment 5 of the present invention, only a single filter is provided. In addition, the classifying step in the flowchart illustrating the classification method in embodiment 5 of the present invention, and the classification operation can be performed at a low cost. In embodiment 5 of the present invention, as in the measuring section 150 in embodiment 5 in 16 shown the continuous x-ray beam 6 which is from the X-ray source 1 is emitted, first through the filter 14 , which is formed of molybdenum, run through, and thereafter through the resin piece 2 run through. Alternatively, the continuous x-ray beam 6 first through the resin piece 2 go through and then through the filter 14 , which is formed of molybdenum, go through.

(Embodiment 6)

In embodiment 6 from the present invention, in contrast to embodiment 5 of the present invention, in which absorption of an X-ray by a bromine component in the resin piece 2 is favored, an absorption of an X-ray by a resin component in the resin piece 2 suppressed. Thus, the continuous X-ray is passed through a resin filter 70 which has a thickness which is at least five times as large as the resin piece 2 , and a synthetic resin component of an identical type to a synthetic resin component for the synthetic resin piece 2 is trained. Then, if the continuous X-ray 6 through the resin filter 70 which has a large thickness passes through, becomes the continuous X-ray 6 in the energy region in which absorption in a high ratio is achieved by the synthetic resin component absorbed in a high ratio. Thus, the X-ray becomes in the energy range at which a ratio of the absorption of the continuous X-ray 6 is high by the resin component, so that the ratio of the absorption of the X-ray by the resin component in the resin piece 2 is reduced. From the foregoing, the influence of the thickness of the resin piece 2 reduced to the determination of the presence or absence of bromine. As the component described above, instead of a filter 14 made of molybdenum, such as in the measuring section 150 in embodiment 5 in 16 shown a synthetic resin filter 70 which consists of the synthetic resin component of an identical type to the synthetic resin component for the synthetic resin piece 2 is formed and has a thickness which is at least five times larger than the resin piece 2 , to be provided. embodiment 6 is different from embodiment 5 of the present invention only in the above feature. The step of determining an expected thickness of the resin piece 2 or from an expected transmission intensity through the resin piece 2 using two filters as in embodiments 1 to 4 from the present invention is also not in the embodiment 6 from the present invention. The arrangement in embodiment 6 from the present invention may also be such that the continuous x-ray beam 6 which is from the X-ray source 1 is emitted, first through the resin piece 2 passes through and then through the resin filter 70 passes. Alternatively, the arrangement may be such that the continuous x-ray beam 6 first through the resin filter 70 passes through and then through the resin piece 2 passes.

The classification method in embodiment 6 of the present invention may be described with reference to the flowchart illustrating the classification method in embodiment 5 from the present invention in 17 displays. Initially, the step of preparing the synthetic resin piece ( S31 ) carried out. More specifically, the step becomes preparation of the resin piece 2 as in embodiments 1 to 4 performed by the present invention.

Thereafter, the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray beam ( S32 ) carried out. More specifically, an acceleration voltage of electron beams in the X-ray source becomes 1 , which in the measuring section 160 in embodiment 6 is initially set to be not lower than 40 kV and not higher than 60 kV. In addition, tungsten as a target to be irradiated with electron beams becomes the continuous X-ray 6 In addition, a synthetic resin filter is produced 70 , which has a thickness which is at least five times as large as the resin piece 2 and which are made of a synthetic resin component of an identical type to a synthetic resin component for the synthetic resin piece 2 is formed, prepared as a filter. Then the continuous x-ray beam 6 emitted so that it can pass through both the synthetic resin filter 70 as well as the resin piece 2 , which are arranged in series, passes through. As described above, since the thickness of the synthetic resin filter 70 which consists of the synthetic resin component of an identical type to the synthetic resin component for the synthetic resin piece 2 is formed sufficiently large, the X-ray beam through the resin component in a high ratio through the resin filter 70 Therefore, based on the absorption of the X-ray beam in the resin piece 2 , the absorption ratio by the resin component, which in the resin piece 2 is reduced. From the foregoing, the absorption of the X-ray beam by the resin component in the resin piece 2 be relatively low, and the absorption of the x-ray beam by bromine can be greater. Then, the transmission intensity (fourth transmission intensity) of the X-ray transmitted through both the resin filter 70 as well as through the resin piece 2 is traversed, recorded during the continuous X-ray 6 is emitted. Theoretically, if the piece of synthetic resin 2 Contains bromine, which absorbs X-ray in the energy range of about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV in a certain ratio, and becomes when the resin piece 2 contains no bromine, which achieves absorption only in an extremely low ratio.

Thereafter, the step of determining the presence or absence of bromine ( S33 ) carried out. Here, the fourth transmission intensity, which in the step described above ( S32 ) is initially detected with data of a third transmission intensity detected in the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the X-ray detected when the continuous X-ray is detected 6 , softer through the resin filter 70 passes through a synthetic resin, which contains no bromine, compared previously in the storage unit 26 in the data processing device 21 are recorded. For example, if there is a difference therebetween that is equal to or greater than a tolerable offset amount set previously, it is determined that bromine in the resin piece 2 is contained in a high ratio. The presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece 2 is thus determined. Finally, in the step of classifying the resin piece ( S34 ) the electromagnetic valve of the air blower 20 is operated with an electromagnetic valve, and the classification is as described above based on a determination of the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece 2 carried out.

(Embodiment 7)

An arrangement as shown below is also possible. In a classification device 170 in embodiment 7 , as in 19 shown, becomes a synthetic resin filter 70 , which in embodiment 6 of the present invention is used as an element softening the resin piece 2 conveyed, in the conveyor belt 7 provided, which is the resin piece 2 in embodiments 1 to 6 moved by the present invention. The resin filter 70 has a function as a conveyor belt 7 (S. 1 ), and also a function as a filter. With the classifying device thus constructed, passage of compressed air through the conveyor belt is not possible. It is not possible, the resin piece 2 containing bromine in a high ratio by blowing out air using the air blower 20 with an electromagnetic valve from below the resin piece 2 blow away. On the other hand, a mechanical classification can be achieved by, for example, a rotary wing 71 from above the resin piece 2 is rotated to the resin piece 2 to meet, which contains bromine in a high ratio. Here, the arrangement is such that the data processing device 21 with the rotary wing 71 is connected, so as to receive a signal from the data processing device 21 to recieve. In addition, an operation of the synthetic resin filter 70 , which also serves as a conveyor belt, by driving from a roll 72 and a role 73 controlled by a spring. In embodiment 7 from the present invention is also an acceleration voltage of electron beams in the X-ray source 1 preferably not lower than 40 kV and not higher than 60 kV, as in embodiments 5 and 6 , In addition, tungsten is prepared as a target to be irradiated with electron beams to the continuous X-ray 6 to create. Thus, a Output ratio of the X-ray beam in the energy range of about 13000 eV to about 20000 eV, in which an absorption ratio by bromine is high, can be increased. The classification method in embodiment 7 of the present invention may be described with reference to the flowchart illustrating the classification method in embodiment 5 from the present invention in 17 displays.

(Embodiment 8)

In addition, a classification method as indicated below is also possible as an embodiment of the present invention. In embodiment 8th from the present invention, the classifier which is the same as the classifier 110 in embodiment 1 from the present invention is used to perform the classification. embodiment 8th however, differs from embodiment 1 in determining the presence or absence of bromine without determining an expected thickness of the resin piece 2 ,

According to embodiment 8th of the present invention is measured prior to the measurement of, for example, the resin piece 2 (S. 1 ) at which determination of the presence or absence of bromine is to be made currently, the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray 6 (S. 1 ), which passes through the first filter 3 (S. 1 ), a test piece which contains no bromine and a synthetic resin of an identical type to a synthetic resin for the synthetic resin piece 2 is trained, previously obtained for each thickness of the test piece. In addition, as in the case of the continuous X-ray 6 , which by the first filter described above 3 has passed through, the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray beam 6 passing through the second filter 4 (S. 1 ), a test piece which contains no bromine and a synthetic resin of an identical type to a synthetic resin for the synthetic resin piece 2 is trained, has passed through, also obtained. A curve 105 in which these measurement results are printed is prepared. In order to obtain such data, initially a plurality of test pieces which are different in thickness, which do not contain bromine, which have a uniform thickness, and a synthetic resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece 2 are trained, prepared. In addition, as for the test pieces, which also contain a prescribed amount of bromine and a synthetic resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece 2 are formed, the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray 6 which has passed through each filter previously obtained similarly for a test piece of each thickness, and becomes a curve 106 in which measurement results are printed, prepared. Also, to obtain such data, a plurality of test pieces which are different in thickness, which contain a prescribed amount (for example, 1.0 mass%) of bromine, which have a uniform thickness, and a resin of an identical type are initially too a synthetic resin for the resin piece 2 are trained, prepared.

In 20 The abscissa (A) represents the transmission intensity of the X-ray which has passed through the first filter and the test piece, and the ordinate (B) represents the transmission intensity of the X-ray which has passed through the second filter and the test piece (of course similar to FIG the following 21 and 22 ).

In a curve 107 , which one 105 and 106 in combination in 22 indicates, a white circle shows the curve 105 that is, it indicates the detected transmission intensity through the test piece containing no bromine at each thickness of the test piece. In addition, a curve indicated as a dotted line is a curve obtained by roughly connecting data indicated by the white circles, and serves as a criterion concerning measurement errors (fluctuation) Span or the like is set. Similar shows in the curve 107 which is 105 and 106 in combination in 22 indicates a black circle the curve 106 that is, it indicates the detected transmission intensity through the test piece containing a prescribed amount of bromine at each thickness of the test piece. In addition, a curve indicated by a solid line is a curve obtained by coarsely connecting data indicated by the black circles, and serves as a criterion with respect to measurement errors (fluctuation), a span or the like is set.

In embodiment 8th from the present invention are data of the waveforms 105 and 106 as described above, as the first data and the second data previously in the storage unit, respectively 26 in the data processing device 21 saved. Here is the measurement of the resin piece 2 in which a determination regarding the presence or absence of bromine is currently to be made. The method is similar to the method for the test piece as described above. Namely, a relationship between the detected transmission intensity of the X-ray, which through the first filter and the resin piece 2 and the detected transmission intensity of the X-ray beam passing through the second filter and the resin piece 2 passed through, found as third data. Then, the third data with the first data and the second data are used using the storage unit 26 and the operating unit 27 in the data processing device compared. For example, with reference to 107 , as in 22 shown, in which position the third data is in relation to the first data and the second data. Thus, the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece becomes 2 certainly.

The classification method for determining the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece 2 will be described in more detail below. 24 is a flowchart similar to step ( S71 ) and the step ( S72 ). The classification method in the present embodiment 8th is related to 20 to 24 and 1 to 19 as appropriately described above.

Before measuring the resin piece 2 in which a determination is to be made, the step for deriving the first data ( S71 ) carried out. Here, the first data refers to data obtained by the above-described waveform 105 are displayed. Namely, the first data indicates the transmission intensity which is detected when the continuous X-ray beam 6 passing through the first filter 3 or second filter 4 passes through the test piece, which contains no bromine. In order to derive the first data, initially the step for preparing a test piece ( S81 ), as shown in the flowchart in FIG 24 displayed. In this step, a plurality of test pieces which are different in thickness, which do not contain bromine, which have a uniform thickness, and a resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece 2 are formed as prepared above.

Hereinafter, the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray passed through the first filter and the test piece ( S82 ), carried out. During the continuous X-ray 6 from the X-ray source 1 is emitted to subsequently through, for example, both the first filter 3 Namely, as the test piece arranged in series passes through, the transmission intensity of the X-ray which has passed through both of them is detected. Relative to the order of transmission, such as in the measuring section 100 for detecting the presence or absence of bromine, as in 2 shown, the X-ray beam can first pass through the filter and then pass through the test piece (see resin piece 2 ). In contrast, alternatively, as in the measuring section 120 in embodiment 2 , as in 11 The X-ray beam is first passed through the test piece and then passed through the filter. The transmission intensity can be determined, for example, by using the arrangement of the measuring section 100 for determining the presence or absence of bromine, as in 2 shown, or the arrangement of the measuring section 120 in embodiment 2 , as in 11 shown to be detected. Alternatively, the arrangement of the measuring section 130 in embodiment 3 , as in twelve shown, or the arrangement of the measuring section 140 in embodiment 4 , as in 13 shown to be used.

Subsequently, as in the above-described step (S80), the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray passing through the second filter and the test piece ( S83 ), carried out. During the continuous X-ray 6 from the X-ray source 1 is emitted to subsequently through, for example, both the second filter 4 Namely, as the test piece arranged in series passes through, the transmission intensity of the X-ray which has passed through both of them is detected. Finally, the step of finding out the relationship between the two types of transmission intensities ( S84 ) carried out. The relationship between the first transmission intensity, which in step ( S82 ) and the second transmission intensity, which in the step ( S83 ) is found, namely for each thickness of the test piece. The curve described above 105 displays this data in the course of the curve.

Similarly, the step of deriving the second data ( S72 ) in a flow shown in the flowchart in FIG 24 is shown performed. Here, the second data refers to data obtained by the above-described waveform 106 are displayed. Namely, the second data indicates the transmission intensity which is detected when the X-ray beam 6 passing through the first filter 3 or the second filter 4 passes through the test piece containing a prescribed amount of bromine. In order to derive the second data, the step of preparing a test piece (S81) is initially performed as shown in the flowchart in FIG 24 displayed. In this step, a plurality of test pieces having a different thickness containing a prescribed amount of bromine having a uniform thickness and a resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece 2 are prepared as described above. Thereafter, as in the above-described acquisition of the first data, the second data is obtained by performing the step (S82) until the step (S84). The curve described above 106 displays this data in the course of the curve.

After the curves 105 and 106 are obtained, the measurement of the synthetic resin piece 2 in which a determination is currently made, carried out. First, the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray passing through the first filter and the resin piece (FIG. S41 ), carried out. Similarly, the step of detecting the transmission intensity of the continuous X-ray passing through the second filter and the resin piece is performed (S51). Then, the step of deriving the data indicating the relationship between these transmission intensities (S61) is performed, and the derived data is used as the third data.

Thereafter, the step of determining the presence or absence of bromine based on the data (FIG. S62 ), the first data and the second data, previously passed in the memory unit 26 in the data processing device 21 Namely, with the third data currently being acquired, they are fully utilized by the operating unit 27 in the data processing device 21 compared. Referring to the graph 107 which is 105 and 106 in combination in 22 For example, it is assumed that the test piece used for detecting the second data contains 1.0 mass% of bromine. For example, when the third data is printed out and the third data is positioned below the black circles (solid line) indicating the second data, it can be determined that the resin piece 2 Contains bromine in a high ratio of not less than 1.0 mass%. Alternatively, for example, when the third data is printed out and the third data is positioned between the white circles (dotted line) indicating the first data and the black circles (solid line) indicating the second data, it may be determined that the resin piece 2 Bromine in a low ratio of not more than 1.0 mass percent contains. Alternatively, for example, when the third data is substantially above the white circles (dotted line) indicating the first data, it may be determined that the resin piece 2 contains almost no bromine. Thus, the presence or absence of bromine in the resin piece becomes 2 certainly. Finally, the step of classifying the resin piece ( 563 ) carried out.

As described above, in implementing the embodiment 8th of the present invention, the measuring section 120 in embodiment 2 as the measuring section of the classifying device, instead of the measuring section 100 for determining the presence or absence of bromine, as in embodiment 1 used in the present invention. Similarly, the measuring section 130 in the embodiment 3 or the measuring section 140 in the embodiment 4 be used. The embodiment 8th from the present invention differs from the embodiment 1 of the present invention only in the above feature. An arrangement, a state, or the like, which is the upper one in the embodiment 8th namely, is not described by the present invention, namely in accordance with that in embodiment 1 from the present invention.

Although the present invention has been described and illustrated in detail, it is to be understood that the same is to be done by way of illustration and example only, and not limitation, the scope of the present invention being interpreted by the subject-matter of the appended claims.

Claims (13)

Classifying means (110) which classifies a resin piece (2) based on presence or absence of bromine, which contains: an X-ray source (1) emitting a continuous X-ray (6); a first filter (3) containing bromine; a second filter (4) including an element having an X-ray absorption edge on a higher energy side than an X-ray absorption edge of bromine; a first X-ray detector (5, 15, 36) comprising a first X-ray beam (6) passed through the first filter (3) and the resin piece (2) from the continuous X-ray beam (6) emitted by the X-ray beam Source (1), and a second X-ray detector (5, 16, 46) detecting a second X-ray beam (6) passed through the second filter (4) and the resin piece (2) ; and a control unit (21) including the synthetic resin piece (2) based on detection data from the first X-ray beam (6) and the second X-ray beam (6) classified. Classifying device (110) according to Claim 1 in which the control unit (21) includes a memory unit (26) and an operation unit (27), the memory unit (26) previously has first data (101) indicating a relationship between the X-ray (6) transmission intensity detected when a test piece which contains no bromine and is formed of a resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece (2) is irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passed through the first filter (3) and a thickness from the test piece, and second data (102) indicating a relationship between the X-ray (6) transmission intensity detected when the test piece is irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passed through the second filter (4) , and indicates the thickness of the test piece, stores, and the operation unit (27) an expected thickness of the resin piece (2) based on the intensity of the first X-ray beam (6) and the first data (101) determines the expected transmission intensity of the X-ray beam (6) to be detected, which has passed through the second filter (4) and the resin piece (2), based on the expected thickness and the second data (102) , and the synthetic resin piece (2) classified based on a comparison between the intensity of the second X-ray (6) and the expected transmission intensity. Classifying device (110) according to Claim 1 in which the control unit (21) includes a memory unit (26) and an operation unit (27), the memory unit (26) previously has first data (105) indicating a relationship between an X-ray (6) transmission intensity detected when a plurality of test pieces having a different thickness, which contain no bromine and are formed of a synthetic resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece (2), is irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passing through the first filter (10); 3), and X-ray (6) transmission intensity detected when the test pieces are irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passed through the second filter (4), and second data (106), which indicates a relationship between an X-ray (6) transmission intensity detected when a plurality of further test pieces having a different thickness, w which contain a prescribed amount of bromine and are formed of a resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece (2), irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passed through the first filter (3), and an X-ray beam (6) Transmission intensity detected when the further test pieces are irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passed through the second filter (4), display, store, and the operation unit (27) based the resin piece (2) on a comparison of third data derived from the relationship between the intensity of the first x-ray beam (6) and the intensity of the second x-ray beam (6), with the first data (105) and the second data (106). Classifying means (110) which classifies a resin piece (2) based on presence or absence of bromine, which contains: an X-ray source (1) emitting a continuous X-ray beam (6), wherein an acceleration voltage of electron beams in the X-ray source (1) is set to be not lower than 40 kV and not higher than 60 kV; a filter (14) formed of molybdenum and having a thickness not smaller than 50 nm and not larger than 100 nm; an X-ray detector (5); and a control unit (21) which classifies the synthetic resin piece (2) based on detection data from the X-ray detector (5), and wherein the control unit (21) includes: a storage unit (26) which previously acquires data of an X-ray (6) transfer intensity detected when a test piece containing no bromine and made of a resin of an identical type is formed into a resin for the resin piece (2); is irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) which has passed through the filter (14) stores, and an operation unit (27) that classifies the resin piece (2) based on a comparison of the transmission intensity of the X-ray beam (6) passed through the filter (14) and the resin piece (2) with the data. Classifying means (110, 170) for classifying a synthetic resin piece (2) based on presence or absence of bromine, which contains: an X-ray source (1) emitting a continuous X-ray (6); a synthetic resin filter (70); an X-ray detector (5); and a control unit (21) which classifies the resin piece (2) based on detection data from the X-ray detector (5), the resin filter (70) having a thickness which suppresses absorption of the X-ray beam in a size which is greater than the absorption of the X-ray beam through the resin piece (2), and wherein the control unit (21) includes: a storage unit (26) which previously receives data from an X-ray (6) transmission intensity detected when A test piece which contains no bromine and is formed of a synthetic resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece (2), irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passed through the filter (70), and an operation unit (27) which classifies the synthetic resin piece (2) with the data based on a comparison of the transmission intensity of the X-ray beam (6) passed through the filter (70) and the resin piece (2). Classification device (170) according to Claim 5 in which the filter (70) is used as an element which is mounted for moving the resin piece (2) in a conveyor belt which moves the resin piece (2). A classification method for classifying a resin piece (2) based on the presence or absence of bromine, comprising the steps of: Detecting a transmission intensity of an X-ray beam (6) passing through a first filter (3) containing bromine and passing through the piece of synthetic resin (2) from a continuous X-ray beam (6) emitted by an X-ray source (1) is emitted; Detecting a transmission intensity of an X-ray beam (6) contained by a second filter (4) containing an element having an X-ray absorption edge on a higher energy side than an X-ray absorption edge of bromine, and the resin piece (2) has passed through; Determining an expected thickness of the resin piece (2) based on the detected transmission intensity of the X-ray beam (6) passed through the first filter (3) and the resin piece (2) and the first data (101) a relationship between an X-ray (6) transmission intensity detected when a test piece formed of a synthetic resin containing no bromine is irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passed through the first filter (3) , and a thickness of the test piece; Determining an expected transmission intensity to be detected from the X-ray beam (6) which has passed through the second filter (4) and the resin piece (2) based on the expected thickness and the second data (102) which is a Relationship between an X-ray (6) transmission intensity detected when the test piece is irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passed through the second filter (4) and the thickness of the test piece; and Classifying the resin piece (2) based on a comparison of the detected transmission intensity of the X-ray beam (6) passed through the second filter (4) and the resin piece (2) with the expected transmission intensity. Classification method according to Claim 7 further comprising as the step of deriving the first data (101) the steps of: preparing a plurality of the test pieces differently in thickness; and finding a relationship between the thickness of the test piece and the transmission intensity by irradiating the first filter (3) and the test piece with the continuous X-ray (6). A classification method for classifying a resin piece (2) based on the presence or absence of bromine, comprising the steps of: Detecting a first transmission intensity of a continuous X-ray passing through a filter formed of molybdenum and a test piece formed of a synthetic resin containing no bromine; Detecting a second transmission intensity of a resin piece to be classified instead of the resin piece containing no bromine; Comparing the first transmission intensity and the second transmission intensity with each other; and Classifying the resin piece (2) based on a comparison result. A classification method for classifying a synthetic resin piece (2) based on presence or absence of bromine, comprising the steps of: detecting a third transmission intensity from a continuous X-ray transmitted through a resin filter having a thickness which permits absorption of the X-ray beam a size greater than the absorption of the X-ray beam through the resin piece (2) and a test piece formed of a synthetic resin containing no bromine allowed to pass through; Detecting a fourth transmission intensity of a resin piece to be classified instead of the resin piece containing no bromine; Comparing the third transmission intensity and the fourth transmission intensity with each other; and classifying the resin piece (2) based on a comparison result; A classification method of classifying a resin piece (2) based on the presence or absence of bromine, comprising the steps of: Detecting a transmission intensity of an X-ray beam (6) passing through a first filter (3) containing bromine and passing through the piece of synthetic resin (2) from a continuous X-ray beam (6) emitted by an X-ray source (1) is emitted; Detecting a transmission intensity of an X-ray beam (6) contained by a second filter (4) containing an element having an X-ray absorption edge on a higher energy side than an X-ray absorption edge of bromine, and the resin piece (2) has passed through; and Classifying the synthetic resin piece (2) based on a comparison of data having a relationship between the transmission intensity of the X-ray beam (6) passed through the first filter (3) and the resin piece (2) and the transmission intensity of the X-ray beam (6 ) passing through the second filter (4) and the resin piece (2), with reference data provided previously. Classification method according to Claim 11 in which the reference data is the same as first data (105) derived from a plurality of test pieces different in thickness and containing no bromine and made of a synthetic resin of an identical type to a resin for the resin piece (2) and second data (106) derived from a plurality of other test pieces which are different in thickness, containing a prescribed amount of bromine, and made of a resin of an identical type to a synthetic resin for the resin piece (2 ), the classification method as the step of deriving the first data (105) comprises the steps of: detecting an X-ray (6) transmission intensity I detected when the test piece is irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) transmitted through the first filter (3) is passed, detecting an X-ray (6) transmission intensity 2, which e is detected when the test piece is irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passed through the second filter (4) and finding a relationship between the transmission intensity 1 and the transmission intensity 2, and the classification method as the step for deriving the second data (106) includes the steps of: detecting an X-ray (6) transmission intensity 3 detected when the further test piece is irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passed through the first filter (3); an X-ray (6) transmission intensity 4 detected when the further test piece is irradiated with an X-ray beam (6) passed through the second filter (4), and finding a relationship between the transmission intensity 3 and the transmission intensity 4 , A method of processing a recycled synthetic resin material obtained by the classification method of any one of Claims 7 to twelve is processed.

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