COMPOSITION AND MAIN PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF POLYMER WASTE

Polymer waste materials are generated as a result of various industrial and consumer processes. These waste materials decompose very slowly in natural conditions, causing significant environmental impact. The main physicochemical properties of polymer waste, such as thermal stability (250-300 °C for polyethylene, 270-300 °C for polypropylene), mechanical strength (15-30 MPa for polyethylene, 25-45 MPa for polypropylene), and biological degradation (up to 1000 years), determine their recyclability and environmental impact. Despite the possibility of recycling, the recycling rate of polymers is limited (20-30% for PE and PP). These properties are crucial for the effective management of polymer waste and reducing its environmental harm.