Process for regenerating partially degraded polyethylene

摘要

Process for regenerating partially degraded polyethylene, especially low-density polyethylene used as greenhouse covering and which has been partially degraded through the action of sunlight. The process consists in subjecting the polymer, which is partially degraded and has been subjected to a prior physical treatment leading to a reduction in its size and the removal of impurities, to a treatment with a mixture consisting of a stabilizing agent and an antioxidant, together with variable quantities of pure raw material in an extruder at temperatures below 170 degree C. A phenolic derivative may be used as antioxidant agent and a phosphate as stabilizer. The siftings thus obtained comply with the technical specifications required for its subsequent conversion and utilization in different applications. This process allows recycling and reuse of agricultural plastic, preventing environmental pollution which results from unsuitable treatment thereof.