GB2620369A - Apparatus for dissolving polymer bound to composite material and method for fabrication thereof - Google Patents
Apparatus for dissolving polymer bound to composite material and method for fabrication thereof Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- GB2620369A GB2620369A GB2209448.6A GB202209448A GB2620369A GB 2620369 A GB2620369 A GB 2620369A GB 202209448 A GB202209448 A GB 202209448A GB 2620369 A GB2620369 A GB 2620369A
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- United Kingdom
- Prior art keywords
- elongate body
- hollow elongate
- fabrication
- reaction medium
- composite material
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 46
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 41
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 title claims abstract description 40
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 title claims description 33
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 46
- 239000012429 reaction media Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 37
- 239000011541 reaction mixture Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 239000003960 organic solvent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 40
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 claims description 26
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 claims description 26
- -1 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 7
- 229920002981 polyvinylidene fluoride Polymers 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000010146 3D printing Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000002033 PVDF binder Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920002994 synthetic fiber Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000005266 casting Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920002239 polyacrylonitrile Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920000915 polyvinyl chloride Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004800 polyvinyl chloride Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229930040373 Paraformaldehyde Natural products 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004952 Polyamide Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920001577 copolymer Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000001125 extrusion Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920002647 polyamide Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920006324 polyoxymethylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000002657 fibrous material Substances 0.000 abstract 1
- 238000004090 dissolution Methods 0.000 description 10
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 10
- 229920001187 thermosetting polymer Polymers 0.000 description 7
- 239000004634 thermosetting polymer Substances 0.000 description 7
- 239000004753 textile Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000000178 monomer Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000036541 health Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000002904 solvent Substances 0.000 description 3
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000005299 abrasion Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 230000000116 mitigating effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002994 raw material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 2
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- BQCIDUSAKPWEOX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 1,1-Difluoroethene Chemical compound FC(F)=C BQCIDUSAKPWEOX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- KXGFMDJXCMQABM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 2-methoxy-6-methylphenol Chemical compound [CH]OC1=CC=CC([CH])=C1O KXGFMDJXCMQABM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- ZOXJGFHDIHLPTG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Boron Chemical compound [B] ZOXJGFHDIHLPTG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 241000208202 Linaceae Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000004431 Linum usitatissimum Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000007513 acids Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 229910052796 boron Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000001311 chemical methods and process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000013016 damping Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003822 epoxy resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 125000004185 ester group Chemical group 0.000 description 1
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012467 final product Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920002313 fluoropolymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004811 fluoropolymer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000014509 gene expression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229930195733 hydrocarbon Natural products 0.000 description 1
- 150000002430 hydrocarbons Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 229920002521 macromolecule Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000002844 melting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008018 melting Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009740 moulding (composite fabrication) Methods 0.000 description 1
- 231100000252 nontoxic Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 230000003000 nontoxic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001568 phenolic resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000005011 phenolic resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000647 polyepoxide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000006116 polymerization reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004904 shortening Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011343 solid material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003381 solubilizing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005728 strengthening Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 231100000419 toxicity Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 230000001988 toxicity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000037303 wrinkles Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C08—ORGANIC MACROMOLECULAR COMPOUNDS; THEIR PREPARATION OR CHEMICAL WORKING-UP; COMPOSITIONS BASED THEREON
- C08J—WORKING-UP; GENERAL PROCESSES OF COMPOUNDING; AFTER-TREATMENT NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES C08B, C08C, C08F, C08G or C08H
- C08J11/00—Recovery or working-up of waste materials
- C08J11/04—Recovery or working-up of waste materials of polymers
- C08J11/10—Recovery or working-up of waste materials of polymers by chemically breaking down the molecular chains of polymers or breaking of crosslinks, e.g. devulcanisation
- C08J11/18—Recovery or working-up of waste materials of polymers by chemically breaking down the molecular chains of polymers or breaking of crosslinks, e.g. devulcanisation by treatment with organic material
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F21/00—Dissolving
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L1/00—Enclosures; Chambers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L7/00—Heating or cooling apparatus; Heat insulating devices
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29B—PREPARATION OR PRETREATMENT OF THE MATERIAL TO BE SHAPED; MAKING GRANULES OR PREFORMS; RECOVERY OF PLASTICS OR OTHER CONSTITUENTS OF WASTE MATERIAL CONTAINING PLASTICS
- B29B17/00—Recovery of plastics or other constituents of waste material containing plastics
- B29B17/02—Separating plastics from other materials
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06B—TREATING TEXTILE MATERIALS USING LIQUIDS, GASES OR VAPOURS
- D06B1/00—Applying liquids, gases or vapours onto textile materials to effect treatment, e.g. washing, dyeing, bleaching, sizing or impregnating
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29B—PREPARATION OR PRETREATMENT OF THE MATERIAL TO BE SHAPED; MAKING GRANULES OR PREFORMS; RECOVERY OF PLASTICS OR OTHER CONSTITUENTS OF WASTE MATERIAL CONTAINING PLASTICS
- B29B17/00—Recovery of plastics or other constituents of waste material containing plastics
- B29B17/02—Separating plastics from other materials
- B29B2017/0213—Specific separating techniques
- B29B2017/0293—Dissolving the materials in gases or liquids
Abstract
An apparatus (100) for dissolving at least one polymer bound to composite preferably fibrous material, the apparatus comprising a hollow elongate body (102) for containing reaction mixture comprising the composite material and reaction medium, the body having first end (104), second end (106), and side wall (108); locking mechanism (110) such as a lockable lid detachably coupled to the hollow elongate body; inlet (112) for receiving the reaction medium; heating arrangement (114); pressure arrangement (116); outlet (118) for withdrawing residual reaction medium; and a thermal insulation layer (120), and wherein apparatus is subjected to depressurization upon completion of the pre-defined period of time. A detachable carrier for the composite feedstock may be provided, as well as a piping arrangement coupled to the pressure arrangement. The reaction medium may comprise an organic solvent and operate at temperatures and pressures between 200-500°C and 70-200 bar. A method for fabricating the apparatus is also disclosed.
Description
APPARATUS FOR DISSOLVING POLYMER BOUND TO COMPOSITE MATERIAL AND METHOD FOR FABRICATION THEREOF
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to dissolution of polymers. In particular, though not exclusively, this invention relates to an apparatus for dissolving at least one polymer bound to a composite material and a method for fabrication thereof.
BACKGROUND
In recent times, the versatile nature of polymers has led to an increase in demand thereof for various industrial applications. For example, the polymers may be widely used in the composite industry in order to manufacture a strengthened fibre material. Typically, the polymers used in the textile industry may be separated (namely, dissolving or polymer dissolution) from the fibre once the strengthening of the fibre may be completed.
Conventional systems for dissolving the polymer from the fibre material work by breaking cross-links between the polymer and the fibre material. In this regard, the conventional systems use chemicals (that may range vary in their levels of toxicity) and extremely high temperature and pressure conditions. However, the conventional systems fail to ensure an even or a complete dissolving of the polymers from the fibre material. Moreover, the conventional systems degrade a fibre integrity or a textile integrity and a textile format of the fibre material or the textile, respectively, during the dissolving process. Furthermore, the conventional systems cause fibre entanglement and fibre shortening thereby resulting in an undesired product, thus leaving the customer unsatisfied. Moreover, conventional systems may require several workers to complete operation therewith. Furthermore, the conventional systems may possess health and safety risks due to pressure, temperature and chemicals used during the operation. Moreover, the conventional systems do not use an industry standard raw material format. Additionally, the conventional systems may consist of components, such as baskets to hold the to-be-processed goods, that are fabricated with expensive material, thereby making the process cost ineffective. Additionally, or alternatively, such components may interfere with the separation process.
Therefore, in the light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the drawbacks associated with conventional systems for dissolving polymers that are part of a composite item.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A first aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for dissolving at least one polymer bound to a composite material, the apparatus comprising: - a hollow elongate body for containing a reaction mixture comprising the composite material and a reaction medium, the hollow elongate body having a first end, a second end opposite to the first end, and a side wall between the first end and the second end; - a locking mechanism, detachably coupled to the hollow elongate body, for holding the reaction mixture; - an inlet for receiving the reaction medium; a heating arrangement for providing a pre-defined temperature; - a pressure arrangement for providing a pre-defined pressure; and an outlet for withdrawing a residual reaction medium, wherein the apparatus comprises a thermal insulation layer on the fabricated hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism, and wherein the apparatus is configured to operate for a pre-defined period of time under the pre-defined temperature and the pre-defined pressure, and wherein the apparatus is subjected to depressurization upon completion of the pre-defined period of time.
Suitably, the apparatus enables the complete dissolution of at least one polymer. Conveniently, the apparatus may have a design with mitigations for health and safety risks embedded in the design thereof. The apparatus may be operated by a single user at all stages of the process and may operate to withdraw the residual reaction medium completely without human intervention, thereby enabling a smooth introduction of the reaction mixture and removal of the residual reaction medium. Moreover, the thermally insulated apparatus is suitable for the dissolution process conditions (low to high temperature and pressure conditions) and allows a rapid temperature increase and a rapid pressure decrease based on an application thereof. Furthermore, the apparatus comprise the locking mechanism that prevents unwanted movement of the reaction mixture during the dissolution process. Advantageously, the apparatus may be fully compatible with an industry standard raw material format.
The term "at least one polymer" as used herein refers to one or more natural and/or synthetic substances composed of macromolecules, that are multiples of simpler chemical units called monomers. Optionally, at least one polymer is a thermosetting polymer. In an embodiment, the at least one polymer is selected from at least one of: a polyester, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a polyvinylidene fluoride, one or a mixture of two or more of copolymers, a polyoxynnethylene, a polyacrylonitrile, a polyamide, and a polyvinyl chloride. Herein, polyester is a thermosetting polymer having an ester functional group in the monomer unit thereof. Typically, polyester possesses characteristics such as abrasion resistance, durability, lightweight, strong, wrinkle resistant, and so forth. Notably, polyvinylidene fluoride or polyvinylidene difluoride is a highly non-reactive thermoplastic fluoropolymer produced by the polymerization of vinyl idene difluoride. Optionally, the polyvinylidene fluoride may be used when requiring highest purity, as well as resistance to solvents, acids and hydrocarbons. In some embodiments, the polyoxymethylene may be used for its high stiffness, low friction, and excellent dimensional stability properties. Typically, polyacrylonitrile has a high melting point relatively to polyethylene, and polyvinyl chloride is a lightweight, sturdy and abrasion-resistant polymer. Advantageously, the aforementioned polymers may be utilized depending on the desired application, based on suitable characteristics of the one or more polymers.
The term "composite material" as used herein refers to a solid material comprising a combination of two or more substances having different characteristics to impart the composite material an enhanced characteristic.
In an embodiment, the composite material comprises a fibre cured with at least one polymer, and wherein the fibre is selected from at least one of: a natural fibre, a synthetic fibre, an impregnated fibre. Suitably, the fibre may be cured in order to increase the strength thereof. Advantageously, the composite fibre may be the natural fibre such as flax which is considered more environmentally friendly than synthetic fibres. In some embodiments, the fibre may be selected as an environmentally friendly material. Optionally, the composite fibre may be the synthetic fibre such as glass, carbon, arannids, boron and others. Typically, these fibres have light weight properties, strength, toughness, electrical conductivity, chemical inertness, high vibration damping and good shelf life. Therefore, such composite fibres may be used for producing sports goods, audio equipment, electrical equipment in aerospace, automotive, marine, weaved to form fibre cloth or textile, and so forth. Optionally, these fibres may be mixed with other materials such as nylon or polycarbonate to form other composite materials. Herein, the term "impregnated fibre" refers to a composite material made from a uncured polymer, such as epoxy or phenolic resin, and so forth. Optionally, the carbon fibre may be pre-impregnated with at least one polymer.
Pursuant to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the apparatus comprises the hollow elongate body for containing the reaction mixture comprising the composite material and the reaction medium. The hollow elongate body has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a side wall between the first end and the second end. Herein, the term "hollow elongate body" refers to a solid structure having a pre-defined size, shape and volume enclosed by the first end, the second end, and the side wall. Moreover, the hollow elongate body is configured to receive and contain a reaction mixture comprising the composite material and the reaction medium via an entry point provided in the hollow elongate body. Herein, the term "reaction mixture" refers to a combination of one or more compounds participating in the chemical process occurring inside the hollow elongate body.
Moreover, the apparatus comprises the locking mechanism, detachably coupled to the hollow elongate body, for holding the reaction mixture. Herein, the term "locking mechanism" refers to a mechanical system, such as a lid detachably attached to an opening of the hollow elongate body, that assists in opening and closing of the hollow elongate body in an operational position and a non-operational position thereof, respectively. In this regard, the locking mechanism enables locking of the apparatus when the reaction mixture is loaded inside the hollow elongate body. Optionally, the locking mechanism is arranged with the hollow elongate body by means of, for example, a knurled locking nut and bolt arrangement, a clamp, a bayonet mount, and the like. Advantageously, the aforesaid arrangement of the locking mechanism and the hollow elongate body while in operational position thereof forms a tightly sealed arrangement for containing the composite material and the reaction medium, thereby preventing an unwanted movement of the reaction mixture during the dissolution process. Moreover, the locking mechanism enables the dissolution to occur under controlled safety conditions, thereby mitigating health and safety risks of the people working on or close to the apparatus or the environment itself.
Moreover, the apparatus comprises the inlet for receiving the reaction medium. Herein, the term "inlet" refers to an opening associated with the apparatus for allowing input of one or more components. Optionally, the apparatus may have one or more inlets for receiving the reaction medium based on the application. In this regard, each of the one or more inlets is configured to allow introduction of a separate component of the reaction medium into the apparatus. Optionally, the separate component may be a pre-processed chemical of the reaction medium.
In an embodiment, the reaction medium comprises at least one of: a thermosetting polymer, a water,an organic solvent. Herein, the thermosetting polymer is used to impregnate the composite material. It will be appreciated that the composite material may be a pre-impregnated composite material, but the thermosetting polymer of the reaction medium re-impregnates the pre-impregnated composite material for a better consistency of the thermosetting polymer throughout the pre-impregnated composite material. Notably, the thermosetting polymer has a limited life to which it has been cured, usually 1 year in the freezer at -18°C or 1 month at an ambient temperature. Advantageously, the said reaction medium may be non-toxic, thus making the dissolving process of at least one polymer environmentally friendly. Notably, the reaction medium may be widely available. Advantageously, the organic solvent is a volatile and strong solvent that breaks down the at least one polymer into monomer units thereof and solubilize the monomer units therein. Optionally, the organic solvent is mixed with water may serve as a solvent for solubilizing the at least one polymer. In an embodiment, a combination of the organic solvents may be used at near or supercritical conditions to solubilize the at least one polymer therein.
Optionally, a use of the combination of chemicals inside the medium may be a greener alternative for providing cleaner fibres.
In an embodiment, the hollow elongate body further comprises a detachable carrier for receiving a feedstock of the composite material concentrically thereon, wherein the detachable carrier is arranged along a central axis of the hollow elongate body. Herein, the term "detachable carrier" refers to a solid elongated body having a pre-defined dimension thereof. Optionally, the detachable carrier may be fabricated using metal, and the like. In an implementation, an operator may load the feedstock I onto the detachable carrier in order to transport the feedstock to the apparatus. Advantageously, the detachable carrier may enable a transportation of the feedstock by the user. Herein, the term feedstock refers to a format in which the composite material is the standard format of the material used within the industry. It will be appreciated that the feedstock is configured to be loaded, by an operator of the apparatus, for example, onto the detachable carrier that is subsequently arranged suitably inside the apparatus, i.e. along the central axis of the hollow elongate body. The feedstock loaded onto the detachable carrier may be arranged along the central axis of the hollow elongate body by pushing it inside the apparatus.
In an embodiment, the detachable carrier is arranged in the apparatus via at least one of: a mechanical lock, a push pull mechanism, a snap fit mechanism. Herein, the "mechanical lock" refers to a means that is used to secure an opening closed until a release mechanism is activated. Optionally, the mechanical lock may be a lever, a knob, a key, and the like. Herein, the "push pull mechanism" refers to an operation in which an internal mechanical lock mechanism holds the pushbutton in the operated state when the pushbutton is pressed and the pushbutton returns to its original position when it is pulled to release the lock. Herein, the "snap-fit mechanism" refers to a means that is used to attach flexible components of the apparatus to form the final product by pushing the interlocking components together. Optionally, the snap-fit mechanism may have variations such as a cantilever, a torsional and an annular. Advantageously, through the mechanical lock and the push-pull mechanism, the roll may be loaded inside the vessel without requiring much human intervention. Additionally, advantageously, the said means of arranging the detachable carrier allows keeping the feedstock intact in a desired position while various chemical and mechanical forces exert thereon.
Moreover, the apparatus comprises the heating arrangement for providing a pre-defined temperature and the pressure arrangement for providing the predefined pressure. Herein, the terms "heating arrangement" and "pressure arrangement" refer to a device that is used to provide the pre-defined heat and the pre-defined pressure to the apparatus in order to enable the complete dissolution of at least one polymer. In an embodiment, the pre-defined temperature is in a range between 200°C and 500.C. Optionally the predefined temperature may be in a range from 200°C to 300°C, or from 200°C to 400°C, or from 200°C to 500°C, or from 300 to 400°C, or from 300 to 500°C, or from 400°C to 500°C. In an embodiment, the pre-defined pressure is in a range between 70 bar and 200 bar. Optionally the pre-defined temperature may be in a range from 70 bar to 80 bar, or from 70 bar to 90 bar, or from 70 bar to 100 bar, or from 70 to 200 bar, or from 80 to 90 bar, or from 80 bar to 100 bar, or from 80 bar to 200 bar, or from 90 to 100 bar, or from 90 to 200 bar, or from 100 to 200 bar. In an embodiment, the apparatus is configured to withstand a temperature as high as 500°C and 200 bar during the dissolving process.
Notably, the apparatus is configured to operate for a pre-defined period of time under the pre-defined temperature and the pre-defined pressure. Herein, the pre-defined temperature, the pre-defined pressure and the pre-defined period of time may be defined based on characteristics of at least one feedstock. Beneficially, the apparatus enables an accurate and a quick increase in the temperature and a quick decrease in the pressure, when in use, during the pre-defined period of time.
Moreover, the apparatus is subjected to depressurization upon completion of the pre-defined period of time. Herein, the term "depressurization" refers to a quick reduction in pressure to ambient pressure condition and subsequently a quick reduction in temperature of the apparatus. Moreover, depressurization allows faster process cycle and withdrawal of the residual reaction medium upon completion of the pre-defined period of time. It will be appreciated that the apparatus is capable of rapid depressurization, quick temperature reduction and quick withdrawal of the residual reaction medium, and therefore is configured to be operated up to 15 to 20 times per day. Herein, the term "residual reaction medium" refers to an exhausted reaction medium left after the dissolving of the at least one polymer subject to the aforesaid pre-defined temperature and pressure conditions.
In an embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a piping arrangement coupled to the pressure arrangement, wherein the piping arrangement is configured to allow withdrawing the residual reaction medium upon depressurization of the apparatus. Advantageously, the piping arrangement enables the residual reaction medium to be recovered in a short period of time after dissolution of at least one polymer. Optionally, when the dissolution may be completed, the pressure may be dropped to an ambient pressure due to the piping arrangement.
Furthermore, the apparatus comprises an outlet for withdrawing the residual reaction medium. Herein, the term "outlet" refers to an opening associated with the apparatus for the withdrawal of the residual reaction medium. It will be appreciated that the residual reaction medium may be disposed or recycled back to the apparatus through a closed loop arrangement.
Moreover, the apparatus comprises a thermal insulation layer on the fabricated hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism. It will be appreciated that the dissolving process requires a stable (+/-5%) isothermal and isobaric condition, and therefore, it is essential to provide a thermally insulated apparatus. In this regard, the thermal insulation layer is provided over the hollow elongate body, the locking mechanism and optionally on the entry points for introducing the pre-defined temperature and pressure into the apparatus, and, the inlets and outlet of the vessel. Notably, the thermal insulation layer may be any of the standard thermal insulation layers known to a person skilled in the art.
The present disclosure also relates to the method as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above apply nnutatis nnutandis to the method.
A second aspect of the invention provides a method for fabricating an apparatus for dissolving at least one polymer bound to a composite material, the apparatus according to the aforementioned claims, the method comprising: - obtaining a first material for fabrication of a hollow elongate body; - obtaining a second material for fabrication of a locking mechanism, detachably coupled to the hollow elongate body; - subjecting the first material and the second material to a fabrication process, for fabrication of hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism, respectively, wherein the fabrication process comprises arranging, at a desired location on the hollow elongate body or the locking mechanism, each of a heating arrangement, a pressure arrangement, an inlet, and an outlet; and adding a thermal insulation layer on the fabricated hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism.
In this regard, the apparatus may be fabricated using any of the methods known to a person skilled in the art, such as forming, casting, moulding, 3-dimensional printing, and so forth. In an embodiment, the fabrication process is selected from at least one of a three-dimensional printing, a casting process, an extrusion process, a forming process.
Suitably, the three-dimensional printing enables an easy reproduction of 3D printed apparatus once a relevant model is developed. It will be appreciated that the aforementioned process may be standard industry approved processes used for the fabrication of the apparatus.
Optionally, the fabrication material may be suitable for a process environment. Herein, the terms "first material" and "second material" refer to fabrication materials used for fabrication of various components, namely the hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism. Advantageously, the first material and the second material may be selected based on the application of the apparatus. In an embodiment, the first material and the second material may be same fabrication materials. In another embodiment, the first material and the second material may be different from each other. It will be appreciated that the first material and the second material may be different from each other to an extent that during the fabrication process the hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism may be subjected to certain fabrication conditions without affecting the integrity thereof. The thermal insulation layer may be applied separately on the fabricated hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism, or once the fabricated hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism are assembled.
In an embodiment, the method further comprising providing an opening corresponding to a piping arrangement, coupled to a pressure arrangement.
In an embodiment, the method further comprising fabricating a detachable carrier for receiving a feedstock of the composite material concentrically thereon, wherein the detachable carrier is arranged along a central axis of the hollow elongate body. Herein, it will be appreciated that the detachable carrier is fabricated using a suitable fabrication material to be able to withstand the weight of the feedstock thereon as well as the various mechanical and chemical forces thereon.
In an embodiment, a fabrication material of the detachable carrier is same or different from the first material for fabrication of the hollow elongate body.
In an embodiment, the detachable carrier is arranged in the apparatus via at least one of: a mechanical lock, a push pull mechanism, a snap fit mechanism.
Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" and "contain" and variations of the words, for example "comprising" and "comprises", mean "including but not limited to", and do not exclude other components, integers or steps. Moreover, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires: in particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.
Preferred features of each aspect of the invention may be as described in connection with any of the other aspects. Within the scope of this application, it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an apparatus for dissolving at least one polymer bound to a composite material, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and Figure 2 is a flowchart depicting steps of a method for fabricating an apparatus for dissolving at least one polymer bound to a composite material, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Referring to Figure 1, illustrated is a schematic illustration of an apparatus 100 for dissolving at least one polymer (not shown) bound to a composite material (not shown), in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As shown, the apparatus 100 comprises a hollow elongate body 102 for containing a reaction mixture (not shown) comprising the composite material and a reaction medium (not shown). The hollow elongate body 102 has a first end 104, a second end 106 opposite the first end 104, and a side wall 108 between the first end 104 and the second end 106. Moreover, the apparatus 100 comprises a locking mechanism 110, detachably coupled to the hollow elongate body 102, for holding the reaction mixture. Furthermore, the apparatus 100 comprises an inlet 112 for receiving the reaction medium and entry points for a heating arrangement 114 and a pressure arrangement 116 for providing a pre-defined temperature and a pre-defined pressure, respectively. Moreover, the apparatus 100 comprises an outlet 118 for withdrawing a residual reaction medium. The apparatus 100 comprises a thermal insulation layer 120 on the fabricated hollow elongate body 102 and the locking mechanism 110.
Referring to FIG. 2, illustrated is a flowchart 200 illustrating steps of a method for fabricating an apparatus, such as the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, for dissolving at least one polymer bound to a composite material, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. At step 202, a first material for fabrication of a hollow elongate body is obtained. At step 204, a second material for fabrication of a locking mechanism, detachably coupled to the hollow elongate body, is obtained. At step 206, the first material and the second material are subjected to a fabrication process for fabrication of hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism, respectively, wherein the fabrication process comprises arranging, at a desired location on the hollow elongate body or the locking mechanism, each of a heating arrangement, a pressure arrangement, an inlet, and an outlet. At step 208, a thermal insulation layer is added on the fabricated hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism.
The steps 202, 204, 206, and 208 are only illustrative and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein.
Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "have", "is" used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.
Claims (4)
- CLAIMS1. An apparatus for dissolving at least one polymer bound to a composite material, the apparatus comprising: - a hollow elongate body for containing a reaction mixture comprising the composite material and a reaction medium, the hollow elongate body having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a side wall between the first end and the second end; - a locking mechanism, detachably coupled to the hollow elongate body, for holding the reaction mixture; - an inlet for receiving the reaction medium; - a heating arrangement for providing a pre-defined temperature; - a pressure arrangement for providing a pre-defined pressure; and an outlet for withdrawing a residual reaction medium, wherein the apparatus comprises a thermal insulation layer on the fabricated hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism, and wherein the apparatus is configured to operate for a pre-defined period of time under the pre-defined temperature and the pre-defined pressure, and wherein the apparatus is subjected to depressurization upon completion of the pre-defined period of time.
- 2. The apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising a piping arrangement coupled to the pressure arrangement, wherein the piping arrangement is configured to allow withdrawing the residual reaction medium upon depressurization of the apparatus.
- 3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the hollow elongate body further comprises a detachable carrier for receiving a feedstock of the composite material concentrically thereon, wherein the detachable carrier is arranged along a central axis of the hollow elongate body.
- 4 The apparatus according to clainn3, wherein the detachable carrier is arranged in the apparatus via at least one of: a mechanical lock, a push pull mechanism, a snap fit mechanism.6. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composite material comprises a fibre cured with at least one polymer, and wherein the fibre is selected from at least one of: a natural fibre, a synthetic fibre, an impregnated fibre.7. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one polymer is selected from at least one of: a polyester, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a polyvinylidene fluoride, one or a mixture of two or more of copolymers, a polyoxymethylene, a polyacrylonitrile, a polyamide, and a polyvinyl chloride.8. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reaction medium comprises at least one of: a feedstock material and an organic solvent 9. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pre-defined temperature is in a range between 200°C and 500°C.10. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pre-defined pressure is in a range between 70 bar and 200 bar.11. A method for fabricating an apparatus for dissolving at least one polymer bound to a composite material, the apparatus according to claim 110, the method comprising: - obtaining a first material for fabrication of a hollow elongate body; - obtaining a second material for fabrication of a locking mechanism, detachably coupled to the hollow elongate body; subjecting the first material and the second material to a fabrication process, for fabrication of hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism, respectively, wherein the fabrication process comprises arranging, at a desired location on the hollow elongate body or the locking mechanism, each of a heating arrangement, a pressure arrangement, an inlet, and an outlet; and adding a thermal insulation layer on the fabricated hollow elongate body and the locking mechanism.12. The method according to claim 11 further comprising providing an opening corresponding to a piping arrangement, coupled to a pressure arra ngennent.13. The method according to claim 11 or 12 further comprising fabricating a detachable carrier for receiving a feedstock of the composite material concentrically thereon, wherein the detachable carrier is arranged along a central axis of the hollow elongate body.14. The method according to claim 13, wherein a fabrication material of the detachable carrier is same or different from the first material for fabrication of the hollow elongate body.15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the detachable carrier is arranged in the apparatus via at least one of: a mechanical lock, a push pull mechanism, a snap fit mechanism.16. The method according to claim 11 to 15, wherein the fabrication process is selected from at least one of a three-dimensional printing, a casting process, an extrusion process, a forming process.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB2209448.6A GB2620369A (en) | 2022-06-28 | 2022-06-28 | Apparatus for dissolving polymer bound to composite material and method for fabrication thereof |
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| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB2209448.6A GB2620369A (en) | 2022-06-28 | 2022-06-28 | Apparatus for dissolving polymer bound to composite material and method for fabrication thereof |
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| Publication Number | Publication Date |
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| GB202209448D0 GB202209448D0 (en) | 2022-08-10 |
| GB2620369A true GB2620369A (en) | 2024-01-10 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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| GB2209448.6A Pending GB2620369A (en) | 2022-06-28 | 2022-06-28 | Apparatus for dissolving polymer bound to composite material and method for fabrication thereof |
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Citations (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5233021A (en) * | 1992-05-13 | 1993-08-03 | Georgia Tech Research Corporation | Recycling of polymeric materials from carpets and other multi-component structures by means of supercritical fluid extraction |
| WO2014166962A1 (en) * | 2013-04-10 | 2014-10-16 | Sacmo | Device for treating a solid composite material by solvolysis with a view to extracting fibres from the treated material |
| US20160145409A1 (en) * | 2013-06-20 | 2016-05-26 | Centre National De La Recherche Scientifique (Cnrs) | Method for recovering organic fibers from a composite material |
| WO2017003798A1 (en) * | 2015-06-30 | 2017-01-05 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Method for purifying contaminated polymers |
| WO2017003804A1 (en) * | 2015-06-30 | 2017-01-05 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Method for purifying contaminated polyethylene |
-
2022
- 2022-06-28 GB GB2209448.6A patent/GB2620369A/en active Pending
Patent Citations (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5233021A (en) * | 1992-05-13 | 1993-08-03 | Georgia Tech Research Corporation | Recycling of polymeric materials from carpets and other multi-component structures by means of supercritical fluid extraction |
| WO2014166962A1 (en) * | 2013-04-10 | 2014-10-16 | Sacmo | Device for treating a solid composite material by solvolysis with a view to extracting fibres from the treated material |
| US20160145409A1 (en) * | 2013-06-20 | 2016-05-26 | Centre National De La Recherche Scientifique (Cnrs) | Method for recovering organic fibers from a composite material |
| WO2017003798A1 (en) * | 2015-06-30 | 2017-01-05 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Method for purifying contaminated polymers |
| WO2017003804A1 (en) * | 2015-06-30 | 2017-01-05 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Method for purifying contaminated polyethylene |
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| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB202209448D0 (en) | 2022-08-10 |
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