TITLE:
Solvolysis-Based Process for Development of an Anti-Shock Composite Material from Post-Consumer Polystyrene (PS) and Urban Wastes
AUTHORS:
Twite Katembo Edmond, Katembo Netwite Nicanor, Chungu Mwana Mwamba Yannick, Muliangala Mbalaba Francis, Twite Kabamba Edmond
KEYWORDS:
Recycling, Solvolysis, Plastic, Composite Material, Polystyrene (PS)
JOURNAL NAME:
World Journal of Engineering and Technology,
Vol.13 No.2,
May
14,
2025
ABSTRACT: This study focused on recovering plastic waste from different landfill sites in Lubumbashi. The primary method used to create the shock-resistant composite material used in the military to make bulletproof waistcoats and vehicle shielding, among other personal and group protective equipment, was solvolysis. The aim of this research was to develop and investigate the possibility of using recycled plastics to create impact-resistant composite materials that resembled those found in bulletproof waistcoats. This was accomplished by recycling plastic waste, such as bottles made of polystyrene (PS), by solvolysis to achieve high mechanical properties and minimize any potential pollution risks. Similar strength and lightweight characteristics to those of conventional materials can be achieved through material creation. Examining the product that was left behind after dissolving, mechanical testing revealed that recycled polystyrene possessed exceptional mechanical qualities, such as a 65% increase in Rockwell hardness, a tensile value of 400 MPa, and a 4.5 MPa elongation. This solution is a mixture of an alkaline solution saturated in [KOH] liq, a semi-polar organic solvent [C10H16] liq, and Cu2+ sulphate [CuSO4].