Identification and classification of polymers and/or polymer mixtures, in particular in carpet fibers, involves use of probe with heating element and temperature sensor in same support

摘要

The heat conductivity and melt behaviour of the polymer or polymer mixture is measured using a probe (1) containing a heating element (4) and temperature sensor (3). The heating element (4) and temperature sensor (3) are mounted on the same support (2) on the probe (1). In a first process method the heating output remains constant and the temperature rise is followed. In a second method the probe heating rate is 10-500 K/minute to keep measuring times short the temperature rise is held constant by controlling the heating output. Calibration of the probe in both methods is by measurement of test samples with known polymer composition together with input from curves measured using DSC laboratory apparatus. Inert gas is applied (6) to the probe surface prior to contact with a test sample. The probe surface (5) is smooth and polished, may be cleaned with a scraper and is pressed against the test sample surface during measurement. In between measurements the probe is cooled to a temperature whose maximum point is 10 K less than the lowest melting point of the polymer. The polymers and/or mixtures under investigation may exist in form of textiles or as carpet fibers. Polymers and/or their mixtures may be sorted afterwards according to their composition and polymers with no definite melting point are removed and scrapped. An independent claim is included for the process equipment which comprises the stated probe.