Murray State and University of Minnesota Researchers Tackle Plastic Waste with Innovative Recycling Technology
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MURRAY, Ky. — In a groundbreaking collaboration, Dr. Kevin Miller, chair of the Chemistry Department at Murray State University, and Dr. Christopher Ellison of the University of Minnesota have developed a new technology aimed at improving the recyclability of mixed plastic waste streams. This innovative approach focuses on multilayered plastics, particularly polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE), which together account for 40-50% of global plastic waste.
Despite the widespread use of these plastics, recycling efforts in the U.S. remain dismally low, with less than 9% making it back into the production cycle, leading to overburdened landfills and incinerators. Conventional recycling techniques struggle with the complex nature of blended plastic films, making separation nearly impossible. The newly patented technology addresses these challenges by utilizing multi-block copolymers to enhance the interlayer adhesion between PET and PE during melt processing.
This innovative method applies these copolymers at low levels, acting like "threads" that bind the layers together, resulting in reprocessed films with improved mechanical properties. The findings suggest that the technology may significantly advance the recycling of difficult-to-process PET/PE waste streams.
Supported by the National Science Foundation’s Center for Sustainable Polymers, this research represents a crucial step in combating plastic pollution. Dr. Miller remarked, "This project dives head-first into a global concern. We must develop creative and economical solutions for recycling ‘throwaway’ plastics."
The preparation and characterization of the PET polymers and multi-block copolymers were conducted at Murray State, while film testing took place at the University of Minnesota. The patent for this innovative recycling technology was issued in April 2025.
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