Recycling concepts for polyurethanes and polycarbonate

The opinion is that all thermoplastics are infinitely recyclable, while crosslinked polyurethanes (PUR) and thermosets are not recyclable. The present paper uses comparative data to show that the waste management problem associated with crosslinked PUR materials has been largely overcome on a pilot-plant scale. Direct and indirect material recycling as well as thermal recycling are discussed. A direct recycling method in which granulated PUR-RIM scrap is made to “flow” under heat and pressure to re-mould it, is quoted as evidence that crosslinked polyurethane elastomers can be reclaimed and reused in a similar manner to thermoplastics. This process is called “compression molding”. Recycling methods for thermoplastics under consideration from an early stage, as well as entirely new possibilities that are emerging, are demonstrated, using polycarbonate Makrolon® as an example.     

Low distortion recording of transient low- light-level phenomena

Two types of low-light-level image sensors have been investigated for use in low distortion recording: an SIT-vidicon (Silicon-Intensifier Target), and a sensor consisting of a newvicon and two stage proxifier. The results are compared and discussed. In addition, a triggerable video frame store is described.     

Quantitative determination of phosgene doses by reflectometric badge readout

Commercial phosgene dosimeter badges are lacking precise and sensitive analysis when used only by visual comparison to a color reference. To meet the discussed occupational standard set to 54 ppm min, objective quantification by reflectance measurement is proposed. At 573 nm, the pink dye (“Koenig´s salt”) formed at the membrane surface by reaction of phosgene, and aromatic amine shows a strict linear relationship in reflectance between doses of 10 and 300 ppm min. The detection limit is calculated to 29 ppm min.