Bengaluru: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a method to recycle discarded milk packets into strong materials that could be used to make outdoor furniture and other products.
Milk packets, mostly made from polyethylene, are widely used across India, generating millions of pieces of plastic waste every day. However, these packets often have low recycling value and may remain in garbage bins, roadsides and landfills for long periods.
The IISc team from the Department of Materials Engineering developed a technique that combines polyethylene from milk packets with recycled polypropylene a plastic commonly used in oil and shampoo containers. Since the two plastics have different molecular structures, vitrimer-based components are used to help them form a stronger recycled material.
Researchers have successfully used the material for 3D printing including making podiums for auditoriums. The technology could also potentially be used to manufacture outdoor benches and other products.
The development comes amid growing efforts to find uses for difficult to recycle plastic waste. Multi layer plastics used in snack and food packaging are also being converted into construction panels by a Bengaluru based company.
However, wider adoption will require testing for strength, fire resistance and durability, along with overcoming concerns about using waste derived materials in construction.