Comparison of mechanical properties of different particle sizes of recycled polycarbonate at higher temperature

Abstract

This research paper deals with behavior of particles of a recycled material at a higher temperature depending on the particle size. Behavior is tested by mechanical properties. During grinding particles are formed which have a different size, shape and surface, from larger pieces to dust particles. During processing these particles melt at different rates depending on their size. For example they can cause material degradation or lack of melt homogeneity. Several recycled mixtures were prepared that had differed particle size after crushing. The recycled material is always the same as is the original material. The studied material was high-heat polycarbonate. Testing was performed using a tensile test, Charpy impact test and hardness test. Specimens were prepared by the mostly used technology for production products, which is injection molding. Each mixture is one by one loaded by high temperature 100°C and consequently tested. This temperature was chosen because we encounter products made with recycled material additive, which can be used at elevated temperatures. When comparing a virgin polycarbonate with recycled mixtures, the particle size of the recycled material affects some of the material parameters quite substantially, but it had no effect on some other properties.