Evaluating the Recyclability and Restabilization of Laboratory Plastics Consumables: Impact of Autoclaving and Mechanical Recycling on Polypropylene

Key Points

• This research aims to investigate the recyclability and restabilization of polypropylene lab consumables after autoclaving and mechanical recycling.
• Evaluated single-use polypropylene consumables from laboratory environments
• Assessed the impact of autoclaving on recyclability
• Conducted mechanical recycling experiments on polypropylene samples
• Autoclaving adversely affected the recyclability of polypropylene, reducing its performance metrics
• Mechanical recycling showed promise in restoring some properties of polypropylene, albeit not fully
• Findings indicate potential for improving recycling protocols for laboratory plastics