Recycling
Articles tagged with Recycling
Closed-loop recycling: Improving plastics recycling from end-of-life vehicles
Recycled rare earth magnets reach key milestone in EU-funded HARMONY project
The HARMONY project has achieved a significant milestone by processing recycled neodymium-iron-boron powder into functional magnet components. The process enables the production of high-quality magnets using industrially relevant methods, reducing dependence on primary raw materials.
Scientists unveil how heat-loving enzyme could help improve plastic recycling
Researchers developed a heat-tolerant cutinase enzyme that combines structural rigidity with flexibility, enabling efficient degradation of PET at high temperatures. This discovery provides new insights into designing enzymes for sustainable plastic recycling and addresses the pressing issue of plastic waste.
Water-soluble cellulose adhesive enables strong, reusable bonding across extreme conditions
Researchers have developed a water-soluble cellulose ethyl phosphite (CEP) adhesive that integrates high bonding strength, environmental tolerance, and recyclability. The CEP adhesive demonstrates remarkable thermal stability and resistance to moisture-related degradation, making it suitable for various applications.
Liquid metals offer a green route to recycle spent Li ion batteries
Researchers have developed a room-temperature method to separate battery electrode materials from aluminum foil, preserving valuable cathode materials. The process produces clean hydrogen as a byproduct and can be repeated multiple times with high efficiency.
Why doesn’t the US recycle more plastic? New study points to lack of access
A new study by the University at Buffalo reveals that unequal access to recycling facilities plays a key role in shaping plastic waste management practices in the US. Wealthier and more college-educated communities are more likely to have convenient access to large-scale industrial recycling facilities, making recycling easier and more...
Researchers turn recovered car battery acid and plastic waste into clean hydrogen
A new method developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge uses solar-powered acid photoreforming to break down hard-to-recycle plastics into clean hydrogen fuel and valuable industrial chemicals. This approach could create a circular system where one waste stream solves another, reducing plastic waste and pollution.
Breakthrough offers endless recycling for acrylic plastics without the environmental cost
Researchers at the University of Bath have developed a breakthrough method for chemically recycling acrylic plastics using lower temperatures and sustainable solvents. The new process delivers over 95% conversion of the plastic and yields high-quality monomers, offering a clear pathway toward genuine circularity in acrylic materials.
Plasma and lemon juice: Milder method retrieves nearly 95% of critical minerals in battery waste
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new method to recover nearly all critical minerals from spent lithium-ion batteries, including metals like lithium and graphite. The process uses microwave-induced plasma treatment with room-temperature solvents, resulting in high recovery rates and minimal environmental impact.
Microbial assembly line makes plastic upcycling programmable
Scientists have engineered a microbial assembly line that converts plastic waste into a variety of useful products, including biopolymers, enzymes, and electricity. The breakthrough uses pyruvate as a universal currency to generate a wide range of outputs.
Recycling jumps when garbage collection drops, new Concordia research shows
A new Concordia study reveals that UK household recycling rates are influenced by factors such as garbage collection frequency, education, and population density. The research found that districts with less frequent garbage collection and convenient recycling systems had higher recycling rates, with median levels of around 61%.
Manchester researchers challenge misleading language around plastic waste solutions
A new study by Manchester researchers argues that directional terms like 'upcycling' and 'downcycling' can skew perceptions of plastic sustainability. The study suggests that a more nuanced approach is needed to evaluate the environmental impact of recycling technologies.
Bonding smart, releasing smarter – the development of a reversible glue
Researchers at Newcastle University have created a reversible adhesive that can bond materials together like traditional glue but can also be easily separated. This technology allows for the reuse, repurposing, or recycling of dissimilar materials, making it a game-changer for industries such as packaging and automotive parts.
Your future home might be framed with printed plastic
MIT engineers have designed a 3D-printed floor truss system made from recycled plastic, which exceeds building standards set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. The printed flooring can hold over 4,000 pounds and weighs about 13 pounds per truss, making it a lighter alternative to traditional wood-based trusses.
New approach to plastic recycling: Worcester Polytechnic Institute Chemical Engineering researchers co-author study
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have developed a new technology for plastic recycling that uses aqueous chemi-mechanical recycling to blend, decolorize, and purify mixed polyolefins. This approach reduces energy consumption and eliminates toxic chemicals compared to existing methods.
Energy-efficient reactor captures and recycles methane to produce clean hydrogen and carbon nanotubes
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed an energy-efficient reactor that captures and recycles methane to produce clean hydrogen and high-performance carbon nanotubes. The process uses a multi-pass floating catalyst chemical vapour deposition reactor with process gas recycling, significantly reducing energy requirements.
CNU research explains how boosting consumer trust unlocks the $4 billion market for retired EV batteries
A team of researchers from Chonnam National University explores how boosting consumer trust can increase adoption of second-life EV battery tech. They found that transparent safety inspections and tailored messaging can improve adoption outcomes.
Recycled tire Rubber used in playgrounds and sports fields may release toxic chemicals, study finds
Researchers found high levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in recycled tire rubber granulate, linked to cancer and environmental harm. Fine particle sizes released more toxins into water and soil, increasing ecosystem risk.
Fine rubber crumbs from recycled tires may release toxic chemicals into soil and water
A new study found that fine rubber crumbs from recycled tires can release high levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) into the environment, contaminating soil and water. The smallest particles released the most toxic chemicals, posing risks to organisms, plants, and potentially human health.
The perfect plastic? Plant-based, fully saltwater degradable, zero microplastics
Researchers at RIKEN have developed a new plant-based plastic made from cellulose that rapidly degrades in natural environments, eliminating microplastic waste. The biodegradable plastic can be adjusted in strength and flexibility with added choline chloride, providing a practical solution to ocean pollution.
Second-hand gift-giving is a well-deliberated decision
A recent study from the University of Eastern Finland found that buying second-hand gifts involves a deliberate decision-making process, often driven by eco-friendly values. The study suggests that consumers tend to deliberate more when buying second-hand furniture or clothing, but less for items like books.
Artificial turf in the Nordic climate – a question of sustainability
A new study by Linköping University finds artificial turf pitches more environmentally sustainable than natural turf when recycled and maintained properly. However, there are reservations due to production impact and maintenance emissions that can be mitigated with electrified machinery.
Battery large model: Ushering in a new era of intelligent battery technology
The Battery Large Model system revolutionizes battery design, manufacturing, operation, and recycling through AI-simulation synergy. It provides a novel technological path for the industry's intelligent upgrade, enabling autonomous design scheme generation, accurate performance prediction, and intelligent defect detection.
Harmful exposure in metal recycling
Researchers found elevated levels of lead, arsenic, copper, cadmium, and antimony in metal recycling workers' blood and urine, highlighting the need for better cleaning practices and respiratory protection. The study's results emphasize the importance of monitoring rare earth metals and implementing measures to reduce workplace exposure.
Water-resistant and recyclable redox-active metal-organic frameworks (RAMOFs)
Researchers at Tohoku University have demonstrated a water-resistant and recyclable redox-active metal-organic framework (RAMOF) that can store electrons in acidic aqueous solutions. The breakthrough material shows high durability in an aqueous RAMOF-based rechargeable battery.
Roadmap for reducing, reusing, and recycling in space
The article proposes a circular economy approach to reduce waste, increase durability, and repurpose spacecraft and satellites. Data analysis and digital technologies will be essential for developing sustainable practices.
New recycling method for textiles
Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a novel, non-toxic method to recycle mixed-fiber textiles, utilizing a deep eutectic solvent to separate and recover cotton and polyester components. The process achieves near-complete recycling with minimal damage to materials.
Study shows new hope for commercially attractive lithium extraction from spent batteries
A new study shows that lithium can be recovered from battery waste using an electrochemically driven recovery process, which demonstrates economic viability with the potential to simplify operations. The method has been tested on commonly used types of lithium-containing batteries and produces recovered lithium at a cost comparable to ...
Two-step flash Joule heating method recovers lithium‑ion battery materials quickly and cleanly
A new recycling process recovers nearly all valuable materials from used batteries with high purity, requiring less energy, chemicals, and costs compared to existing methods. The two-step flash Joule heating method separates lithium and transition metals quickly and cleanly.
Mapping resilient supply solutions for graphite, a critical mineral powering energy storage: Rice experts’ take
Rice University researchers outline emerging solutions to make graphite production cleaner and more resilient, including synthetic graphite from renewable sources. The study emphasizes the critical role of graphite in energy storage technologies and the need for sustainable supply chain management.
New molten salt method gives old lithium batteries a second life
Researchers have developed a new molten salt technique that restores the structure and performance of used high-nickel cathode materials, allowing for more efficient battery recycling. The approach, published in Energy & Environment Nexus, regenerates the material itself so it can be reused in new batteries.
Spent LiMn2O4 cathodes supercharge photothermal polyester recycling
Researchers developed a photothermal catalyst, Li0.51Mn2O4, to upgrade spent lithium manganate oxides and waste PET into highly efficient recyclable materials. The study achieved high conversion rates and reduced fossil resource consumption by up to 77% compared to traditional thermal catalysis.
$2.5 million aluminum research partnership aims to expand use in auto industry and beyond
The research partnership aims to develop stronger aluminum alloys for high-performance applications. Three projects focus on reducing iron impurities through electrical or chemical approaches.
Fishing for a better future: New process to recycle plastic waste
A new method to recycle PA-66, a type of polymer found in fishing nets and automotive parts, has been developed. The process involves introducing melamine into melted waste, resulting in a nylon material with improved properties that can be reprocessed up to three times.
Critical raw materials are a vital new currency; Europe’s e-waste is the vault
Critical raw materials are projected to grow from 1 million tonnes in 2022 to between 1.2 and 1.9 million tonnes by 2050. Europe can recover more of these essential materials by improving collection, design, and recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment.
A high-performance supercapacitor made from upcycled water bottles
Researchers have developed a high-performance supercapacitor made from upcycled water bottles, demonstrating improved capacitance and reduced production costs compared to traditional glass fiber separators. The PET-derived supercapacitor is fully recyclable and poised for market-ready devices within the next five to 10 years.
Old solar panels can power new future
Researchers have identified key barriers to safely extending the life of solar panels and decreasing waste. One major challenge is the low cost of new panels undercutting the resale market for used systems.
Rapid flash Joule heating technique unlocks efficient rare‑earth element recovery from electronic waste
A new gas-solid separation method promises cleaner and cheaper recycling of critical elements. The technique uses flash Joule heating to extract REEs in seconds without water or acids, achieving over 90% purity and yield for REE recovery.
Cardboard and earth reshape sustainable construction
Engineers at RMIT University have developed cardboard-confined rammed earth, a novel building material that uses locally sourced materials and reduces waste going to landfill. The material boasts one quarter of the carbon footprint of concrete and can be made on-site using cardboard formwork.
“Want to, but can’t”: A new model to explain the gap in waste separation behavior
Researchers developed a new behavioral model for waste separation, incorporating external factors and demographic variables. The Theory of Planned Behavior + External influences + Heterogeneity (TPB + E + H) framework increases explanatory power and provides a flexible platform for policy-level interventions.
No-sort plastic recycling is near
A new catalyst breaks down polyolefin plastics into liquid oils and waxes, which can be upcycled into higher-value products. This process bypasses the labor-intensive step of pre-sorting mixed plastic waste, making recycling more efficient and practical.
New self-assembling material could be the key to recyclable EV batteries
MIT researchers developed a sustainable electrolyte that quickly breaks down when submerged in organic solvents, allowing for easy recycling of components. The new material could revolutionize the battery industry by simplifying the recycling process and reducing electronic waste.
Recycling process for dry processed cathodes developed
A team from the University of Münster has developed a method for recycling dry-processed lithium ion battery cathodes, separating materials and granulating them for reuse. The process is attractive not only for sustainability but also for cost efficiency.
Breakthrough smart plastic: Self-healing, shape-shifting, and stronger than steel
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a smart plastic that can self-heal and adapt to extreme conditions, making it ideal for aerospace and automotive applications. The material's unique properties allow it to restore its shape after deformation, improve vehicle safety, and reduce environmental waste.
Spent EV batteries turbocharge plastic upcycling
A new photothermal catalyst made from recycled EV battery materials boosts the efficiency of plastic upcycling, converting polyester into valuable monomers. The process demonstrates significant improvements in conversion rates and reduced energy costs compared to traditional methods.
Electric vehicle batteries: Prioritize reuse before recycling
A study by researchers at the University of Münster found that deploying end-of-life EV batteries as stationary energy storage devices can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By prioritizing reuse, countries with high renewable energies can save up to 56 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
Call for bold action at upcoming Global Plastics Treaty Talks (INC-5.2)
Over 60 academic experts urge global plastics treaty to include human health impacts, toxic chemical regulation, and production caps. The briefing event, hosted by Cambridge University Press, offers clear evidence-based recommendations for a legally binding treaty.
A simple filter for rare earth elements will ensure a clean domestic supply of these crucial metals
Researchers at University of California - Santa Barbara develop a new filter that can extract rare earth elements from end-of-life products like electronic waste. The technique combines solid-state extraction with precision chemistry to create a simple and environmentally attractive process, increasing the concentration of REEs fourfold.
Scientists repurpose old solar panels to convert CO2 exhaust into valuable chemicals
Researchers successfully converted CO2 from thermal power plant exhaust into formic acid and formamide using waste silicon wafers from discarded solar panels. The reaction produces high yields of these valuable organic chemicals, demonstrating the practicality of recycling materials to sequester greenhouse gases.
Researchers develop process to turn food waste into biodegradable plastic
A team at Binghamton University has developed a process to convert food waste into biodegradable plastic, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and offering a sustainable alternative. The process utilizes bacteria to synthesize polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) plastic, which can be harvested and shaped into various products.
US vacation renters waste $2 billion worth of food annually
A new study estimates US vacation renters waste $2.3 billion worth of food each year due to grocery and leftovers going uneaten. The average nightly rental fee comes with a 5.1% surcharge for wasted food, equivalent to an additional lodging tax.
Health experts’ 8 recommendations for the UN Plastics Treaty
Health experts urge the UN to strengthen the treaty's focus on ending plastic production and reducing toxic chemicals. The World Health Organization estimates that one-quarter of global deaths are linked to environmental harm, including chemicals, pollution, and waste.
University of Houston engineer creates a possible replacement for plastic
A University of Houston engineer has developed a method to create strong and eco-friendly materials from bacterial cellulose, which could replace plastic in various industries. The new material has high tensile strength flexibility, foldability, optical transparency, and long-term mechanical stability.
Paper outlines catalytic process to make eco-friendly plastics from natural polymer
A new study by Colorado State University outlines a path to creating advanced, recyclable plastics using natural poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (P3HB). The breakthrough method involves stereodivergent catalysis, which enables the production of enantiopure PHAs with improved properties for various applications.
A unique method of rare-earth recycling can strengthen the raw material independence of Europe and America
A new method of separating rare earth elements from used neodymium magnets has been developed, allowing for environmentally friendly purification without organic solvents or toxic substances. The process is adaptable for other rare earths found in neodymium magnets and has the potential to influence various industrial sectors.
New and highly efficient recycling technology to turn used tires into raw materials for rubber and nylon
A new recycling technology has been developed to turn used tires into raw materials for rubber and nylon, achieving high selectivity of up to 92% and a yield of 82%. The process uses dual catalysis to convert waste rubber into valuable chemicals.
Model tackles key obstacle to efficient plastic recycling
Researchers developed a new framework that connects molecular scale processes with reactor-scale models for catalytic depolymerization of plastics. The findings offer a powerful tool for designing catalyst architectures and identifying reaction conditions to boost selectivity of value-added products.
What a relief! Microbes transform plastic waste into paracetamol
Researchers have developed a method to transform polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic waste into paracetamol using genetically reprogrammed E. coli bacteria. The new process creates virtually no carbon emissions and can be completed in under 24 hours.
Recycled plastics can affect hormone systems and metabolism
A new study found that recycled polyethylene plastic can leach chemicals into water, causing impacts on zebrafish larvae's hormone systems and lipid metabolism. The researchers highlight the need to address toxic chemicals in plastics across their life cycle.