High-purity polyolefin recovery using STRAP for multilayer packaging films
STRAP provides a recycling approach for multilayer packaging films that enables high-purity polyolefin recovery via selective dissolution. The process operates under moderate conditions and supports high solvent recovery (>99.9%), helping reduce energy use and costs. Recovered polyolefins can be processed into cast films, supporting material quality for closed-loop packaging applications.
Overview
The Solvent-Targeted Recovery and Precipitation (STRAP) process is a recycling method for multilayer packaging films. It selectively dissolves target polyolefins while leaving non-target polymers and contaminants undissolved, enabling recovery of high-purity polyolefin resins. This approach addresses limitations of conventional mechanical recycling for complex multilayer structures. STRAP can produce virgin-like polyolefins, supporting closed-loop packaging applications by maintaining material quality and sustainability.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Selective Dissolution: Targets polyolefins, leaving non-target polymers undissolved.
- Eco-Friendly Process: Operates at ambient pressures and moderate temperatures, reducing energy consumption.
- High Solvent Recovery: Achieves >99.9% solvent recovery, minimizing environmental impact.
- Pilot Scale Demonstration: Demonstrated to produce high-quality resins from various plastic waste feedstocks.
- Compatibility: Recovered resins have been successfully processed into cast films, supporting material quality and processability.
Technology readiness level
The STRAP process is at Technology Readiness Level 5, having been demonstrated at pilot scale. Future validation efforts will assess scalability and commercial viability, including lifecycle assessments and techno-economic analyses to optimize and potentially scale the recycling process, and to confirm that recovered polyolefins meet relevant industry specifications.
About Michigan Technological University
Michigan Technological University is a mid‑sized public technological research university known for hands‑on, industry‑engaged innovation and a strong applied research culture. Companies tap co‑op pathways and an embedded, multi‑year enterprise model to access talent while shaping solutions alongside faculty and students. Co‑located laboratories, pilot‑scale facilities, and instrumented field sites—including cold‑weather test ranges near campus, waterfront facilities on the Great Lakes, and a research presence in Southeast Michigan—enable validation from lab to operational environments. Research is supported by competitive awards from agencies such as the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, and NASA, alongside state and industry sponsors. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP protection, sponsored research agreements, and startup formation for corporate collaborators.
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