Supercritical fluid extraction and chromatography for dye removal from plastic waste
Innovative use of supercritical fluid extraction and chromatography to selectively remove dyes from plastic waste. This environmentally friendly process uses CO2 and zeolite traps for efficient dye separation, potentially revolutionizing plastic recycling.
Overview
This solution leverages Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE) in combination with Supercritical Fluid Chromatography (SFC) to selectively remove dyes and pigments from plastic waste. By reversing traditional dyeing protocols, this method uses supercritical CO2 as an environmentally benign solvent to extract dyes, directing the flow into an SFC system for component separation. The process is enhanced with tailored zeolite columns for selective dye removal, promising a sustainable, low-energy solution to plastic recycling challenges.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes supercritical CO2, a tunable and recyclable solvent, for dye extraction
- Integrates SFE and SFC for efficient separation of dye components
- Employs tailored zeolite traps to selectively capture and recover dyes, especially pH-dependent ones
- Modular system design to accommodate diverse dye properties and improve process scalability
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 2, this technology is in the concept phase with preliminary studies planned to optimize sample preparation and solvent systems. Further development will focus on functionalizing zeolites and refining the SFC method. The technology aims to enhance the sustainability of plastic waste recycling, with potential applications in various industries.
About Newcastle University
Newcastle University is a comprehensive public research university in Newcastle upon Tyne, with broad academic and translational activity. Its city‑centre Newcastle Helix innovation district—developed with Newcastle City Council and Legal & General—co‑locates researchers with companies and hosts national innovation centres to enable fast collaboration. Deep integration with Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, supported by a joint research office, enables streamlined study setup, access to clinical populations, and end‑to‑end clinical translation. Research is backed by competitive funding from UKRI councils, the National Institute for Health and Care Research, major charities, the European Union, and industry. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP, licensing, spinouts, and knowledge‑transfer partnerships.
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