Project

Second generation Methyl MethAcrylate

Acronym
MMAtwo
Code
41Q04518
Duration
01 October 2018 → 30 September 2022
Funding
European funding: framework programme
Research disciplines
  • Engineering and technology
    • Polymer reaction engineering
Keywords
depolymerisation
Other information
 
Project description

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a transparent and rigid plastic produced from the polymerisation of methyl methacrylate (the monomer). It is often used as an alternative to glass in applications including skylights, sanitary products (bathtubs, shower trays), advertisement, interiors, automotive lighting, electronics and more. Currently, only about 10 % of annual PMMA production is recycled to recover the monomer. The EU-funded MMAtwo project is developing a novel PMMA recycling value chain and technologies from collection to depolymerization to re-use in optical and non-optical applications. There is focus on recycling end-of-life PMMA waste and contaminated PMMA waste.

 
Role of Ghent University
Understanding and design of the depolymerization kinetics combined with skill development for future engineering and scientists in contact with polymer recylcing.