A Comparative Study on Crystallisation for Virgin and Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET): Multiscale Effects on Physico-Mechanical Properties

• DOI: 10.3390/polym15234613
• Publication Date: 2023-12-04T10:28:21Z
• Authors: Laurianne Viora; Marie Combeau; Monica Francesca ...; Didier Perrin; Pierre-Jacques Li...; Jean-Luc Bouvard; Christelle Combeaud
• Keywords: Small-angle X-ray scattering; Elongation

Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate) (PET) is one of the most used polymers for packaging applications. Modifications induced by service conditions and means to make this matter circular have be understood really close loop (from bottle example). Physico-chemical properties, crystalline organisation, mechanical behaviour virgin PET (vPET) are compared with those recycled (rPET). Using different combined experimental methods (Calorimetry, Small Angle X-ray Scattering [SAXS], Atomic Force Microscopy [AFM], Dynamic Mechanical Analysis [DMA], uniaxial tensile test), it has been proven that even if there no change in crystallinity PET, crystallisation process shows some differences (size number spherulites). The potential impact these on local characterisation explored tends demonstrate development a homogeneous microstructure, leading well-controlled relevant property characterisation. main contribution present study better understanding during forming processes such as thermoforming or Injection Stretch Blow Moulding (ISBM), which elongation at point breaking can depend microstructure conditioned process.