Grantee Research Project Results
Conversion of Waste Stream Plastics Into Polymer Matrix Composite Materials
EPA Contract Number: 68D30066Title: Conversion of Waste Stream Plastics Into Polymer Matrix Composite Materials
Investigators: Monfore, Michael D.
Small Business: Robert Morgan and Company Inc.
EPA Contact: Richards, April
Phase: II
Project Period: September 1, 1993 through December 1, 1994
Project Amount: $149,998
RFA: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) - Phase II (1993) Recipients Lists
Research Category: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
Description:
Secondary recycling of many waste materials has been limited by chronic technical and economic barriers. However, recent advances in the processing of mixed waste plastics has led to the development of innovative polymer matrix composites. Materials research by the Robert Morgan & Company, Inc., has shown great promise for the utilization of mixed waste materials, including plastics, paper and fiberglass. This formulation and processing technology allows direct conversion of commingled post-consumer and post-industrial waste into useful composite materials. Phase I SBIR research by Robert Morgan & Company, Inc., has demonstrated these materials capable of delivering mechanical performance similar to many reinforced and non-reinforced polymer materials used in automotive components. It is anticipated this technology has the potential to provide many industries with a new source of inexpensive, high performance engineering materials. Phase II research will provide a practical demonstration of this technology through the production of full-scale prototype products. The investigators will produce a prototype pallet system from a range of materials demonstrated in Phase I. The design of this prototype will allow evaluation of the research materials across a variety of design features and attributes. Success of the Phase II research will finalize commitments with several commercialization opportunities.Supplemental Keywords:
Sustainable Industry/Business, RFA, Scientific Discipline, Waste, Technology for Sustainable Environment, Engineering, Sustainable Environment, Municipal, Chemistry and Materials Science, cleaner production/pollution prevention, New/Innovative technologies, Environmental Engineering, municipal waste plastics, waste minimization, municipal solid waste, municipal waste, waste recovery, polymer matrix composite materials, pollution prevention, recycling, reuse, waste processing, plastics, secondary recycling, polymers, recovery, recovered materials, waste recycling, waste reduction, waste markets, materials recovery facility, waste management, plastics sortingProgress and Final Reports:
The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.