Recycling of polymers with agglomerates of pyrolyzed biomass

Description

BE2025 / 5766 2 Although the addition of pyrolyzed biomass to recycled thermoplastic polymers has been suggested to obtain better mechanical properties (e.g., Lepak-Kuc, S., Kiciński, M., Michalski, P.P., Pavlov, K., Giorcelli, M., Bartoli, M., & Jakubowska, M. (2021). Innovative Biochar-Based Composite Fibres from Recycled Material. Materials, 14 (18), 5304. https: / / doi.org / 10.3390 / ma14185304), such approaches leave much to be desired. It is difficult to compound the pyrolyzed biomass with the thermoplastic polymers to obtain a homogeneous phase, especially if more additional additives are added. Moreover is the powder form of the pyrolyzed biomass difficult to handle. Hence, there is a need in engineering for methods for producing polymer compositions from immiscible thermoplastic polymers, preferably obtained by the mechanical recycling of a plastic material or object that has good mechanical properties (high melt strength, longer elongation at break, a lower occurrence ofshrinkage cavities) via an industrially suitable method (easy compounding to form a homogeneous mixture, limited use of fine powders) characterized by a low release15 of odors and VOCs during production and application. Description of the invention In one aspect the invention provides a method for producing a20 polymer compound, comprising the following steps: (a) obtaining at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers, preferably by mechanical recycling of a plastic material; 25 (b) obtaining agglomerates from a pyrolyzed biomass, where the agglomerates have a mass-weighted average particle size of 250µm to 7500µm; and (c) compounding the at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers with30 the agglomerates. Such a method can herein be called a method according to or of the invention. The method according to the invention meets the need presented above in the technology. As discussed below, the resulting polymer composition has goodmechanical properties (high melt strength, long elongation at break, low occurrence of shrinkage voids), while the method largely avoids the use of powders during processing, and makes it easy to form a homogeneous mixture during compounding and entry 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 3 (c). Furthermore, odor and VOC emissions are reduced during the process, and from the resulting polymer composition after the process has been carried out. Non-miscible thermoplastic polymers 5 A thermoplastic polymer is a polymer that becomes flexible or moldable upon heating to a specific temperature and solidifies upon cooling, a process that is atom-reversible and repeatable without significant chemical change or degradation. Thermoplastic polymers are characterized by their ability to flow in the molten state, enabling processing by techniques such as injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming. These polymers10 can be amorphous, semi-crystalline, or crystalline in nature, and their thermal behavior is typicaldefined by parameters such as the glass transition temperature (Tg) and, if applicable, the melting temperature (Tm). The immiscibility of thermoplastic polymers refers to the inability of the polymer phenomenon to form a homogeneous single-phase material when they are combined, under standard processing conditions, due to differences in their chemical structure, polarity, crystallinity, molecular weight, or thermal properties. This results in phase separation, poor interfacial bonds, and a lack of compatibility at the molecular level, as evidenced by distinct phase boundaries observable by microscopy techniques or by the degradation of mechanical, thermal, or optical properties in the resulting mixture relative to a compatible or miscible system. In forms are at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers, preferably two or three immiscible thermoplastic polymers, mostly preferably two immiscible thermoplastic polymers.In the forms, at least two non-miscible thermoplastic polymers are selected from polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride, polystyrene (PS), polyamide (PA, nylon), polyethylene terephthalate (PET, PETE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyethylene vinyl acetate (EVA, PEVA), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), polyoxymethylene (POM), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polylactic acid (PLA), and polyetherimide (PEI); preferably from polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride, polystyrene (PS), polyamide (PA, nylon), polyethylene terephthalate. (PET, PETE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyethylene vinyl acetate (EVA, PEVA). In forms are at least two non-miscible thermoplastic polymers polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP); or polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC); or 40 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 4polypropylene (PP) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC); or polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS); or polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS); or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polystyrene (PS); or polyethylene (PE) and polyamide (PA, nylon); or polypropylene (PP) and polyamide (PA, nylon); or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyamide (PA, nylon); or polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET); or polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET); or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET); or polystyrene (PS) and polyamide (PA, nylon); or polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET); or polypropylene (PP) and polycarbonate (PC); or polyethylene (PE) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); or polypropylene (PP) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyamide (PA, nylon); or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); or polycarbonate (PC) and polyamide (PA, nylon); or polylactic acid (PLA) and polypropylene (PP); orpolylactic acid (PLA) and polyethylene (PE); or polylactic acid (PLA) and polycarbonate (PC); or polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS); or polyoxymethylene (POM) and polypropylene (PP); or polyoxymethylene (POM) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC); or polyoxymethylene (POM) and polystyrene (PS); or polyoxymethylene (POM) and polyethylene (PE); or polyoxymethylene15 (POM) and polycarbonate (PC); or polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polypropylene (PP); or polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyethylene (PE). In implementation forms, the at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers are included in an initial polymer composition. In this context, where at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers are mentioned in a method step in this application, the method step could also be applied to such an initial mixture. In implementation forms, the weight concentration of one of the at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers in the initial mixture is at least 50 wt.%, or at least 55 wt.%,25often at least 60 wt.%, often at least 65 wt.%, often at least 70 wt.%, often at least 75 wt.%, often at least 80 wt.%, often at least 85 wt.%, often at least 90 wt.%, often at least 95 wt.%. In embodiments, the weight concentration of one of the at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers in the initial mixture is less than 50 wt.%, or less than 45 wt.%, or 30 less than 40 wt.%, or less than 35 wt.%, or less than 30 wt.%, or less than 25 wt.%, or less than 20 wt.%, or less than 15 wt.%, or less than 10 wt.%, or less than 5 wt.%. In implementations, one of the least two non-miscible thermoplastic polymers can be considered an impurity, e.g. polyethylene with a weight concentration of 35 to 10% by weight in combination with polypropylene with a weight concentration of 90% by weight. 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 5 Obtaining entry (a) may mean that the least two non-miscible thermoplastic polymers are derived from carbon, including but not limited to de-novo polymerization or (mechanical) recycling of plastic materials of objects.The difference between materials and objects is not essential in the context of this invention. 5 Without being limiting, a material generally refers to a specific type of material, such as a plastic or a type of polymer, in bulk, in a simple form, or without specifying the shape. An object, on the other hand, generally refers to products for the end user and / or in more complicated forms. 10 In working forms, at least two non-miscible thermoplastic polymers in step(a) are obtained from a waste stream. Preferably, the waste stream comprises at least 50 wt.%, or at least 55 wt.%, or at least 60 wt.%, or at least 65 wt.%, or at least 70 wt.%, or at least 75 wt.%, or at least 80 wt.%, or at least 85 wt.%, or at least 90 wt.%, or at least 95 wt.% of thermoplastic polymers. For example, polypropylene recyclate (rPP)15 is polypropylene obtained from a waste stream via recycling, typically with a polyethylene contamination. The use of rPP without the addition of pyrolyzedbiomass leads to low melt strength, shorter elongation at break, a high occurrence of shrinkage voids, bad odors and the release of VOCs. 20 In execution forms, at least two non-miscible thermoplastic polymers in step(a) are obtained from a waste stream by the mechanical recycling of a plastic material or object. The plastic material or object preferably comprises at least 50 wt.%, or at least 55 wt.%, or at least 60 wt.%, or at least 65 wt.%, or at least 70 wt.%, or at least 75 wt.%, or at least 80 wt.%, or at least 85 wt.%, or at least 90 wt.%, or at least 95 wt.% of thermoplastic polymers. Mechanical recycling refers to a process in which a plastic material or object is physically collected, sorted, cleaned and reprocessed by mechanical means, such as shredding, grinding, washing, melting or extrusion, to produce secondary raw materials or products without significantly altering the chemical structure of the polymers. This process is typically applied to thermoplastics and may include additional steps, such as washing,drying, pelletizing or compounding, to improve the qualities and usability of the recycled material. Mechanical recycling maintains the original molecular structure of the polymer, but can result in a degradation of physical or mechanical properties due to thermal and mechanical stresses encountered during processing. Preferably, the plastic material or object to be mechanically recycled is part of a waste stream, i.e. is a discarded material or object. 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 6 In implementation forms, step(a) comprises the mechanical recycling of a plastic material or object, where the mechanical recycling comprises one or more of shredding, grinding, washing, separating and pelletizing. In implementation forms, step(a) comprises the mechanical recycling of a plastic material or object, where at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers are formulated as pellets. For example, rPP is often formulated as pellets. Agglomerates of a pyrolyzed biomass 10In execution forms, step(b) comprises the steps of: (b1) pyrolyzing a biomass at a temperature of 220°C to 1000°C to form a crude composition; (b2) regulating the particle size distribution of the crude composition to form the pyrolyzed biomass with a mass-weighted average particle size of less than 1000µm; and (b3) mixing the pyrolyzed biomass with an agglomerating polymer and one or more additives to form the agglomerates. The pyrolysis of biomass entry (b1) refers to the process of thermally decomposing biomass in the absence of oxygen or under limited oxygen conditions at elevated temperatures, preferably at a temperature of 220°C to 1000°C. This process breaks down the 25 organic components of the biomass into a mixture of gaseous, liquid and solid products, including syngas, bio-oils and biochar, without significant combustion. The pyrolysis of biomass can be carried out using various methods, such as slowpyrolysis, rapid pyrolysis, or lash pyrolysis, depending on the heating rate, temperature, and residence time, to optimize the yield of desired products.30 Biomass can be a wide range of organic materials derived from plant, agricultural, and forestry sources, collectively referred to as lignocellulosic biomass. This category includes materials rich in cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, such as wood chips, sawdust, straw, corn straw, sugarcane bagasse, and agricultural residues. In addition, biomass can include energy crops35 such as switchgrass, miscanthus, and hybrid poplar, as well as waste materials such as rice hulls, coconut shells, and palm kernel shells. Other suitable raw materials include aquatic biomass, such as algae, and non-lignocellulosic biomass, such as food waste or animal manure, which can be used alone or mixed with lignocellulosic biomass. These diverse sources offer flexibility in the selection of raw materials, whereby the pyrolysis can40 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 7be adapted to regional availability of biomass and specific end product requirements. In implementation forms, the biomass is lignocellulosic biomass. 5 In embodiments, the pyrolysis of the biomass in step (b1) is carried out at a temperature of 200°C to 1000°C, or 200°C to 900°C, or 200°C to 800°C, or 200°C to 700°C, or 200°Cto600°C,or200°Cto500°C,or200°Cto400°C,or200°Cto300°C,or300°Cto1000°C, or300°Cto900°C,or300°Cto800°C,or300°Cto700°C,or300°Cto600°C,or300°Cto500°C, or300°Cto400°C,or400°Cto1000°C,or400°Cto900°C,or400°Cto800°C,or400°Cto10 700°C, or 400°C to 600°C, or 400°C to 500°C, or 500°C to 1000°C, or 500°C to 900°C, or 500°C to800°C,or500°Cto700°C,or500°Cto600°C,or600°Cto1000°C,or600°Cto900°C,or 600°C to 800°C, or 600°C to 700°C, or 700°C to 1000°C, or 700°C to 900°C, or 700°C to 800°C. In implementation forms, the pyrolysis of the biomass entry-level (b1) is carried out at a temperature of 200°C to 300°C (mild pyrolysis), or 300°C to 500°C (slow pyrolysis), or400°C to 600°C (fast pyrolysis), or 500°C to 800°C (flash pyrolysis). Deruwe composition refers to the composition obtained by pyrolyzing the biomass in step (b1), which is not subject to regulating the particle size distribution in step (b2). The method of the invention can be used with many different types of biomass and pyrolysis process parameters. An important feature is the agglomeration of the pyrolyzed biomass, not the origin or production of the pyrolyzed biomass. The same remark applies to any additional method steps that are performed, especially after the compounding in step (c). In implementation forms, regulating the particle size distribution of the raw composition in step(b2) involves reducing the mass-weighted average particle sizes and lowering the polydispersity index. In other words, the pyrolyzed biomass has a reduced mass-weighted average particle size and a lowered polydispersity index compared to the raw composition.In implementation forms include the regulation of the particle size distribution of the above composition 35 step (b2) the calibration of the above composition, bijvoorkeurwaarbijhetcalibereren zevenomvat. 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 8 In embodiments, the pyrolyzed biomass has a mass-weighted average particle size of less than 1000 µm, or less than 950 µm, or less than 900 µm, or less than 850 µm, or less than 800 µm, or less than 750 µm, or less than 700 µm, or less than 650 µm, or less than 600 µm, or less than 550 µm, or less than 500 µm, or less than 450 µm, or less than 400 µm, or less than 350 µm, or less than 300 µm, or less than 250 µm, or less than 200 µm, or less than 5 150 µm, or less than 100 µm. In embodiments, the pyrolyzed biomass has a weighted average particle size of 10 µm to 1000 µm, of 10 µm to 950 µm, of 10 µm to 900 µm, of 10 µm to 850 µm, of 10 µm to 800 µm, of 10 µm to 750 µm, of 10 µm to 700 µm, of 10 µm to 650 µm, of 10 µm10to 600µm, or 10µm to 550µm, or 10µm to 500µm, or 10µm to 450µm, or 10µm to 400µm, or 10µm to 350µm, or 10µm to 300µm, or 10µm to 250µm, or 10µm to 200µm, or 10µm to 150µm, or 10µm to 100µm. The particle properties, such as the particle size, of the pyrolyzed biomass are chosen on the basis of at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers and the intended properties of the polymer composition. In form, the composition of the pyrolyzed biomass has a lower mass-weighted average particle size than the agglomerates of the pyrolyzed biomass.20 In form, the pyrolyzed biomass has a lower mass-weighted average particle size than the agglomerates of the pyrolyzed biomass. This is clear since the pyrolyzed biomass becomes part of the agglomerates. 25 The pyrolyzed biomass can be called a biocarbon. In form, the agglomerating polymer mixed with the pyrolyzed biomass and one or more additives in the entry (b3) is able to act as a binder between the particles.at least two non-miscible thermoplastic polymers. In this context, the agglomerating polymer can be considered or referred to as a binder. In execution forms, the agglomerating polymer is mixed with the pyrolyzed biomass and one or more additives in the entry(b3) miscible / or capable of binding with each of the at least two non-miscible thermoplastic polymers. Capable of binding typically means non-covalent interaction. In forms, the agglomerating polymer mixed with the pyrolyzed biomass and one or more additives in the entry (b3) are identical to one of the at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers.40 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 9 The one or more additives mixed with the pyrolyzed biomass and the agglomerating polymer in the entry (b3) may be of different types. These additives are chosen depending on the desired properties of the polymer composition obtained by the method according to the invention.5 In forms comprising one or more additives mixed with the pyrolyzedbiomass and agglomerating polymer entry(b3) stabilizers, plasticizers, fillers, flame retardants, colorants, impact modifiers, antistatic agents, lubricants, processing aids, foaming agents, nucleating agents, biocides, coupling agents, 10 conductive additives, binders, compatibilizers, adhesives, defoamers, antioxidants, UV stabilizers, heat stabilizers, antimicrobial agents, rheology modifiers, dispersants, crosslinkers, chain extenders, viscosity reducers, lubricants, anti-lock agents, optical brighteners, release agents, fragrance additives, thermal conductivity enhancers, 15 friction modifiers, and / or adhesion promoters. In forms comprising one or more additives mixed with the pyrolyzed biomass and the agglomerating polymer entry(b3), a binder, a compatibilizer and / or an adhesive.20 In forms comprising one or more additives mixed with the pyrolyzedbiomass and the agglomerating polymer entry(b3) a compatibilizer and / or an adhesive. One or more additives are chosen on the basis of at least two immiscible25 thermoplastic polymers and the desired properties of the polymer composition. The mixing entry(b3) can be performed using any standard mixing equipment. An agglomerate refers to a cluster of particles or granules that are bound together, either loosely or tightly, to form a larger, cohesive structure. This binding can occur through physical forces, such as van der Waals interactions, or chemical means, including the use of adhesives, sintering or fusion. Agglomerates retain a typical and observable porous structure, with voids or interstitial spaces between the constituent particles, and their (total) size and shape (of the cluster, i.e. of the cohesive structure) are determined by the35 forming method. Without being bound to this theory, the agglomerates are bound strongly enough to enable processing as cohesive structures before compounding entry(c), but2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 10 disintegrate during compounding, whereby essentially their components (at least pyrolyzed biomass, additives, agglomerating polymer) are released. The agglomeration entry (b3) allows important process steps such as the compounding entry (c) to be carried out without the presence of a powdered form of pyrolyzed biocarbon. This is industrially easier to handle and makes the compounding phenomenon of forming a homogeneous mixture more efficient. The latter can be understood, without being bound to this theory, by the fact that agglomerates are first dispersed as larger particles during compounding, before they integrate into their components (at least pyrolyzed biomass, additives, agglomerating polymer), which are typically smaller.10 In execution forms, agglomerates have a mass-weighted average particle size of 250µm to 7500µm, or 250µm to 7400µm, or 250µm to 7300µm, or 250µm to 7200µm, or250µmto7100µm,or250µmto7000µm,or250µmto6900µm,or250µmto6800µm,or250µmtot6700µm,of250µmtot6600µm,of250µmtot6500µm,of250µmtot6400µm,of25015 µmtot6300µm,of250µmtot6200µm,of250µmtot6100µm,of250µmtot6000µm,of250µm tot5900µm,of250µmtot5800µm,of250µmtot5700µm,of250µmtot5600µm,of250µmtot 5500µm,of250µmtot5400µm,of250µmtot5300µm,of250µmtot5200µm,of250µmtot 5100µm,of250µmtot5000µm,of250µmtot4900µm,of250µmtot4800µm,of250µmtot 4700µm,of250µmtot4600µm,of250µmtot4500µm,of250µmtot4400µm,of250µmtot20 4300µm,of250µmtot4200µm,of250µmtot4100µm,of250µmtot4000µm,of250µmtot 3900µm,of250µmtot3800µm,of250µmtot3700µm,of250µmtot3600µm,of250µmtot 3500µm,of250µmtot3400µm,of250µmtot3300µm,of250µmtot3200µm,of250µmtot 3100µm,of250µmtot3000µm,of250µmtot2900µm,of250µmtot2800µm,of250µmtot 2700µm,of250µmtot2600µm,of250µmtot2500µm,of250µmtot2400µm,of250µmtot25 2300µm,of250µmtot2200µm,of250µmtot2100µm,of250µmtot2000µm,of250µmtot 1900µm,of250µmtot1800µm,of250µmtot1700µm,of250µmtot1600µm,of250µmtot 1500µm,of250µmtot1400µm,of250µmtot1300µm,of250µmtot1200µm,of250µmtot1100µm,of250µmtot1000µm,of250µmtot950µm,of250µmtot900µm,of250µmtot850 µm,of250µmtot800µm,of250µmtot750µm,of250µmtot700µm,of250µmtot650µm,of30 250µmtot600µm,of250µmtot550µm,of250µmtot500µm. Inuitvoeringsvormenhebbendeagglomerateneenmassagewogengemiddeldedeeltjesgrootte van500µmtot7500µm,of500µmtot7400µm,of500µmtot7300µm,of500µmtot7200µm, of500µmtot7100µm,of500µmtot7000µm,of500µmtot6900µm,of500µmtot6800µm,of35 500µmtot6700µm,of500µmtot6600µm,of500µmtot6500µm,of500µmtot6400µm,of500 µmtot6300µm,of500µmtot6200µm,of500µmtot6100µm,of500µmtot6000µm,of500µm tot5900µm,of500µmtot5800µm,of500µmtot5700µm,of500µmtot5600µm,of500µmtot 5500µm,of500µmtot5400µm,of500µmtot5300µm,of500µmtot5200µm,of500µmtot 5100µm,of500µmtot5000µm,of500µmtot4900µm,of500µmtot4800µm,of500µmtot40 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 11 4700µm,of500µmtot4600µm,of500µmtot4500µm,of500µmtot4400µm,of500µmtot 4300µm,of500µmtot4200µm,of500µmtot4100µm,of500µmtot4000µm,of500µmtot 3900µm,of500µmtot3800µm,of500µmtot3700µm,of500µmtot3600µm,of500µmtot3500µm,or500µmto3400µm,or500µmto3300µm,or500µmto3200µm,or500µmto 3100µm,or500µmto3000µm,or500µmto2900µm,or500µmto2800µm,or500µmto5 2700µm,or500µmto2600µm,or500µmto2500µm,or500µmto2400µm,or500µmto 2300µm,or500µmto2200µm,or500µmto2100µm,or500µmto2000µm,or500µmto 1900µm,or500µmto1800µm,or500µmto1700µm,or500µmto1600µm,or500µmto 1500µm,or500µmto1400µm,or500µmto1300µm,or500µmto1200µm,or500µmto 1100µm, or 500µm to 1000µm, or 500µm to 950µm, or 500µm to 900µm, or 500µm to 850µm, or 10µm, or 500µm to 800µm, or 500µm to 750µm. The particle properties, such as particle size, of the agglomerates are selected on the basis of at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers and the intended properties of the polymer composition.15 In execution forms, agglomerates have a polydispersity index equal to or lower than 0.1. The envelope density of an agglomerate refers to the mass of an agglomerate divided by the total volume occupied by the agglomerate, where the volume is the outer boundaries of theagglomerate contains, including the interstitial spaces, voids, and pores within the structure, but excluding any void space external to the agglomerate. The volume is typically measured using displacement techniques with a non-penetrating liquid or gas adhering to the outer surface of the agglomerate. Envelope density, expressed in units such as kilograms per 25 cubic meters, is used to assess the overall compactness and structural integrity of the agglomerate, taking into account its porosities and spatial configuration. In embodiments, the agglomerates have an envelope density of 100kg / m3 to 1000kg / m3, or 100kg / m3 to 950kg / m3, or 100kg / m3 to 900kg / m3, or 100kg / m3 to 850kg / m3, or 100kg / m3 to 30 800kg / m3,or100kg / m3to750kg / m3,or100kg / m3to700kg / m3,or100kg / m3to650kg / m3,or 100kg / m3 to 600kg / m3, or 100kg / m3 to 550kg / m3, or 100kg / m3 to 500kg / m3, or 100kg / m3 to 450kg / m3, or 100kg / m3 to 400kg / m3. In construction forms having an envelope density of 200 kg / m³ to 1000 kg / m³,35of 200kg / m3 to 950kg / m3, of 200kg / m3 to 900kg / m3, of 200kg / m3 to 850kg / m3, of 200kg / m3 to 800kg / m3, of 200kg / m3 to 750kg / m3, of 200kg / m3 to 700kg / m3, of 200kg / m3 to 650kg / m3, of 200kg / m3 to 600kg / m3, of 200kg / m3 to 550kg / m3, of 200kg / m3 to 500kg / m3, of 200kg / m3 to 450kg / m3, of 200kg / m3 to 400kg / m3. 40 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 12 Inuitvoeringsvormenhebbendeagglomerateneenenvelopdichtheidvan250kg / m3tot1000kg / m3, of250kg / m3tot950kg / m3, of250kg / m3tot900kg / m3, of250kg / m3tot850kg / m3, of250kg / m3tot800kg / m3, of250kg / m3tot750kg / m3, of250kg / m3tot700kg / m3, of250kg / m3tot650kg / m3, of 250kg / m3tot600kg / m3,of250kg / m3tot550kg / m3,of250kg / m3tot500kg / m3,of250kg / m3tot 450kg / m3,of250kg / m3tot400kg / m3.5 Sonderaandezetheoriegebondentezijn, leidtderelatieflageenvelopdichtheidvande agglomeraten, dwzhunhogeinterneoppervlakte, toteenlagereemissievanVOSenminder ongewenstegeurentijdensdeproductievanpolymeersamenstellingen. 10 Hetcompounderenvandetenminstetweeniet-mengbarethermoplastischepolymereninstap(c)refers to a process in which at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers are mechanically mixed in the melt phase with the agglomerates to achieve desired properties or performance characteristics in the polymer composition. This process typically involves the use of compounders, such as extruders or mixers, in which the thermoplastic polymers are melted and mixed with the agglomerates. A variety of commonly used compounders is suitable for the invention, which is not limiting for the invention. Without being bound to this theory, the agglomerates lose their structural integrity during compounding, whereby the pyrolyzed biomass, the agglomerating polymer, and one or more additives are released in the melt phase. These released compounds are homogenized in the polymer phase during compounding. Compounding can be performed with a series of machines designed to efficiently mix, melt, and homogenize thermoplastic polymers with additives,fillers or reinforcements are used to produce uniform material with improved properties.25 Important equipment includes extruders, such as single-screw extruders, which are suitable for simple compounding tasks, and twin-screw extruders, which offer improved mixing capabilities through interlocking or co-rotating screws, making them ideal for processing complex formulations. Interchangers, such as Banbury mixers, are used for batch processing and achieving high shear strength and thorough dispersion of components. Kneaders offer controlled mixing for highly viscous or special formulations. High-speed mixers and drum mixers can be used for premixing or dry mixing of materials prior to thermal processing. Supporting equipment, such as feeding systems, pelletizers, and screen changers, is often integrated into the compound underline to enable precise feeding, size reduction, and filtration of the compounded material. The choice of equipment depends on the natureof at least two non-miscible thermoplastic polymers, and the desired properties of the polymer composition, and the specific processing requirements. 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 13 In working forms, the weight concentration of the agglomerates during compounding in step(c) is 1 wt.% to 50 wt.%, or 1 wt.% to 45 wt.%, or 1 wt.% to 40 wt.%, or 1 wt.% to 35 wt.%, or 1 wt.% to 30 wt.%, or 1 wt.% to 25 wt.%, or 1 wt.% to 20 wt.%, or 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, or 1 wt.% to 10 wt.%, or 5 wt.% to 50 wt.%, or 5 wt.% to 45 wt.%, or 5 wt%to40wt%,or5wt%to35wt%,or5wt%to30wt%,or5wt%to25wt%,5 or5wt%to20wt%,or5wt%to15wt%,or5wt%to10wt%,or10wt%to50 wt%, or 10 wt% to 45 wt%, or 10 wt% to 40 wt%, or 10 wt% to 35 wt%, or 10 wt% to 30 wt%, or 10 wt% to 25 wt%, or 10 wt% to 20 wt%, or 10 wt% to 15 wt%. 10 In execution forms the weight concentration of the agglomerates during compounding in step(c) is approximately 5 wt.%, or approximately 10 wt.%, or approximately 15 wt.%, or approximately 20 wt.%,or approximately 25 wt.%, or approximately 30 wt.%, or approximately 35 wt.%, or approximately 40 wt.%, or approximately 45 wt.%, or approximately 50 wt.%, where approximately + / - 5 wt.% means. 15 In execution forms the weight concentration of the agglomerates during compounding in step(c) is approximately 5 wt.%, or approximately 10 wt.%, or approximately 15 wt.%, or approximately 20 wt.%, or approximately 25 wt.%, or approximately 30 wt.%, or approximately 35 wt.%, or approximately 40 wt.%, or approximately 45 wt.%, or approximately 50 wt.%, where approximately + / - 2.5 wt.% means. 20 In execution forms, the weight concentration of the agglomerates during compounding in step(c) is approximately 5 wt.%, or approximately 10 wt.%, or approximately 15 wt.%, or approximately 20 wt.%, or approximately 25 wt.%, or approximately 30 wt.%, or approximately 35 wt.%, or approximately 40 wt.%, or approximately 45 wt.%, or approximately 50 wt.%, where approximately + / - 1 wt.% means. 25 In execution forms, the weight concentration of the agglomerates during compounding in step(c) is approximately 5 wt.%, or approximately 10 wt.%, or approximately 15 wt.%, or approximately 20 wt.%, or approximately 25 wt.%, or approximately 30 wt.%, or approximately 35 wt.%, or approximately 40 wt.%, orapproximately 45 wt.%, or approximately 50 wt.%, where approximately + / - 0.5 wt.% means. 30 The weight concentration of the agglomerates during compounding in step(c) is chosen on the basis of at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers and the intended properties of the polymer composition. The method of invention may include additional steps, in particular but not limited to 35 steps after compounding(c), to obtain the polymer composition. The polymer composition obtained by the method of invention may be a final product or an intermediate product. In this context, the polymer composition is considered a final product if it will not undergo any additional process steps in the melting phase before the 40 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 14 polymer composition is used for the intended industrial or consumer use. Likewise, the polymer composition is considered an intermediate if it undergoes additional process steps in the melt phase before the polymer composition is used for the intended industrial or consumer use. 5The term 'polymer composition' used in this application refers to the product of the method of invention, unless expressly stated otherwise. Further methods and applications 10 In this section, various additional methods and applications are described. The characteristics and forms of execution described above for the methods of invention apply mutatis mutandis to these additional methods and applications. In one aspect, the invention provides a method for recycling a plastic material15 or object, comprising the steps of: (a) obtaining at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers by mechanically recycling the plastic material or object; 20 (b) producing a polymer composition using at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers via the method of invention; and (c) forming the polymer composition into a recycled material. 25 The formation entry(c)ofthismethodisalreadydescribed above as part of themethod according to the invention. Whether the forming is part of the method of the invention (i.e. entry(b)of the current method) or of step(c)of the current method is not essential to the invention. 30 A recycled material can be regarded as an intermediate material or object, or a final material or object, which can generally be resold to and / or used by third parties. In one aspect, the invention provides the application of agglomerates as defined above35 to improve a mechanical property of a polymer composition comprising at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers, where the agglomerates are mixed with the polymer composition in the melt phase, where the improved mechanical property is one or more of the following: 40 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 15 (a) higher miscibility of the at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers in the polymer composition; (b) higher melt strength of the polymer composition; 5 (c) longer elongation at break of the polymer composition; (d) lower occurrence of shrinkage voids.In this context, the term polymer composition can be used for both the end product of the method of the invention and this application. These two are related in the sense that the agglomerates in the method of the invention can result in (and thus can be used for) the same mechanical properties in the product of the method of the invention. 15 Miscibility of thermoplastic polymers in a polymer composition refers to the extent to which at least two thermoplastic polymers form a homogeneous single-phase material at the molecular level, as opposed to existing as separate phases. Miscibility is crucial in polymer compositions, since poor miscibility often results in phase separation, whereby incompatible polymers form separate domains with weak interfacial adhesion, which leads to compromised mechanical, thermal, and optical properties. The miscibility of polymers can be evaluated using techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and single or multipleto identify glass transition temperatures (Tg), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) or transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to observe phase dispersion, or dynamic25 mechanical analysis (DMA) to assess the viscoelastic properties of the material. The application of the agglomerates significantly improves (increases) miscibility by promoting interfacial adhesion and reducing phase separation. This increased miscibility30 improves the mechanical strength, impact resistance, thermal stability, and optical clarity of the polymer composition, making it suitable for demanding applications in industries such as packaging, automotive, and consumer goods. Melt strength of a thermoplastic polymer composition refers to the35 resistance of the polymer melt to deformation under tensile stress, which reflects the ability to maintain structural integrity during processing at high temperatures. Melt strength is typically measured using a melt strength tester or extension.rheometer, in which the polymer melt is extruded through a die and stretched at a controlled speed while the force required to extend the melt is recorded. Higher melt strength is advantageous in processes such as blow molding, film blowing, thermoforming, and extrusion foaming, because it enables the production of uniform, defect-free products by minimizing problems such as sagging, uneven thickness, or melt fracture. Polymer compositions with improved melt strength exhibit improved processability, better material distribution, and the ability to form complex or large structures without introducing mechanical properties. Strain at break of a polymer composition of thermoplastic polymers refers to the maximum strain that a polymer material can withstand before breaking when subjected to tensile stress, expressed as a percentage of the original length of the material. It is a crucial parameter for evaluating the flexibility and ductility ofa polymer composition. Elongation at break is typically measured using a tensile testing machine, according to standardized test methods such as ASTMD638 or ISO527, in which a sample is stretched to failure at a constant rate and the strain is recorded. Polymer compositions with higher elongation at break offer significant advantages,15 including improved toughness, improved impact resistance and greater flexibility, which are desirable in applications requiring durable and deformable materials. These properties are particularly advantageous in industries such as packaging, automotive and medical devices, where materials must withstand stretching, bending or impact without breaking. 20 Shrinkage of cavities during the production of a polymer composition of thermoplastic polymers, or plastic materials or objects derived therefrom, refers to the formation and subsequent reduction in size or elimination of internal cavities or openings within a molded or extruded polymer product as the material cools and solidifies. Shrinkage cavities formdue to non-uniform cooling, differences in polymer density between the molten and solid states, or insufficient packing pressure during processing. The occurrence and severity of shrinkage voids can be assessed by techniques such as X-ray computed tomography (CT), ultrasonic scanning, or visual inspection of cross-sections, often quantified by the size, number, and distribution of voids within the material. Minimizing shrinkage voids improves the mechanical strength, dimensional stability, and aesthetic quality of the end material or object, making it crucial for applications requiring high-performance or precision parts. These improvements contribute to more reliable and durable polymer components in industries such as automotive, aerospace, packaging, and consumer goods. In one aspect, the invention provides the application of agglomerates to control the emission of volatile organic compounds from a material comprising at least two immiscibleto reduce thermoplastic polymers, whereby the agglomerates are mixed with a polymer composition comprising at least two immiscible thermoplastic polymers in the melt phase during the production of the material.40 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 17 Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) refer to a class of organic chemicals characterized by high vapor pressure and low boiling points, causing them to evaporate easily in the atmosphere at ambient temperatures. VOCs are emitted during the production and use of plastic materials and articles, mainly as by-products of polymerization, solvent use or the thermal processing of plastics. In addition, VOCs can originate from additives, residual monomers or degradation products in plastics, which leads to emissions during their application, storage or disposal. The presence of VOCs causes environmental and health problems, contributes to air pollution, smog formation and potential adverse effects such as respiratory irritation and long-term health risks for 10people. Moreover, regulatory frameworks prescribe increasingly strict limits for VOC emissions to reduce their impact. Developing plastics and production methods that minimize VOC emissions offers significant benefits, including improved workplace safety, improved product quality, and reduced environmental impact. Furthermore, reducing VOC emissions aligns with sustainability goals, thereby enabling compliance with regulatory standards and promoting the development of environmentally conscious production practices. The application of agglomerates as described herein may reduce the impact strength of the polymer composition compared to a corresponding polymer composition produced without the application of agglomerates. Nevertheless, it is an additional benefit of the method of the invention that pyrolyzed biomass can be added while maintaining an acceptable impact strength. 25 refers to the impact strength of a polymer compound (i.e. as a plastic material or object)to the ability of the material to resist fracture or deformation when exposed to sudden or dynamic forces, which indicates its toughness and energy absorption capacity. Impact strength is typically measured using standardized tests such as the Charpy impact test, in which a notched or unnotched sample is struck by a pendulum under controlled conditions, and the energy absorbed during fracture is recorded. The results are expressed in units of energy per unit cross-sectional area (e.g. joules per square meter). High impact strength is particularly advantageous for applications requiring durability and resistance to mechanical shock, such as automotive components, packaging materials, and structural parts. A polymer composition with sufficiently high impact strength offers various benefits, including improved reliability, extended service lives, and a reduced risk of catastrophic under-stress failure. This is essential in demanding environments where materials suddenly e40 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 576618 must withstand loads, shocks or collisions without compromising structural integrity or functionality. General definitions 5 In this document in the conclusion hereof the verb "to include" and its conjugations are used in its non-restrictive meaning to mean that objects following the word are included, but objects not specifically named are not excluded. Furthermore, the verb "to consist of" can be replaced by "mainly consist of", which means that a product, a method or an application as defined herein can include additional component(s) or additional step(s) respectively and those that have been specifically identified, whereby the additional component(s) or step(s) respectively do not alter the unique characteristic of the invention. Moreover, reference to an element by the indefinite article "een" or "een" does not exclude the possibility that more than one of the element is present, unless the context clearly requires that there is one and only one of the elements. The indefinite article "een" or "een"therefore usually means "at least one". "Mass-weighted average particle size" refers to the average particle size of a material, calculated by weighting the size of individual particles by their respective masses, to provide a measurement of the size distribution that takes into account the influence of larger or heavier particles. It is determined using techniques such as laser diffraction, sieve analysis or dynamic light scattering, and is mathematically expressed as the sum of the products of each particle size and its corresponding mass fraction, divided by the total mass of all particles in the sample. All patent and literature references cited in this specification are hereby included in their entirety by reference. 30 Explanation of the figures Figures 1(a)-(e) show that the polymer compounds prepared by a method in accordance with the invention are characterized by a lower VOC emission than the control, as determined by VDA278 (120°C, 30 minutes). One or more samples with a diameter of 1 cm are heated35in a glass tube at a constant temperature under an inert gas stream. The gas stream is passed over a tube filled with Tenax where volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are trapped. The Tenax tube containing the VOCs is thermally desorbed. Released VOCs are cryo-trapped and injected into a GCMS. Gas chromatography with an Agile MSD detector is used. 40 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 19 Figure 1(a) refers to the control (no agglomerates used). Figures 1(b)-(e) refer to polymer compounds that were produced using 10 wt.%, 20 wt.%, 30 wt.% and 40 wt.% agglomerates, respectively. 5 Figure 2 shows that the polymer compound prepared via a method in accordance with the invention, using 10 wt.% agglomerates during compounding, has a longer elongation at break. The stress-strain curve is obtained via tensile tests at 1 mm / min and 50 mm / min on an ISO 527 tensile specimen. 10 Figure 3 shows that the polymer compounds prepared via a method in accordance with the invention have an acceptable impact strength. Virgin (i.e. newly synthesized, not recycled)Polypropylene has an impact strength of approximately 3 kJ / m². Impact strength was assessed via a Sharpy impact test with a 1 J hammer. 15 Examples The invention is explained below in more detail with a number of examples, which should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of protection of the invention. The invention is not limited to the forms of implementation described in the cases given as examples. The invention also extends to any combination of measures as described above, independent of each other. Example 125 A polypropylene recyclate (rPP) with 90 wt.% purity was obtained. The rPP was contaminated with non-miscible polyethylene. The rPP was subsequently subjected to the method of invention with 10 wt.%, 20 wt.%, 30 wt.% and 40 wt.% agglomerates of pyrolyzed biomass used during compounding and entry (c), respectively. A CO-30 rotary twin-screw extruder L / D 36.5 was used. Samples for the tests below were produced using an Arburg Allrounder 320S injection molding machine. As a control, aa comparable process without the addition of any pyrolyzed biomass was carried out. A lower VOC emission of the samples corresponding to 10 wt.%, 20 wt.%, 30 wt.% and 40 wt.% agglomerates of pyrolyzed biomass is shown in Figure 1(a)-(e). A longer elongation at break of the polymer compound prepared by a method in accordance with the invention, using 10 wt.% agglomerates during compounding, compared with the control is shown in Figure (2).40 2025 / 5766 BE2025 / 5766 20 The impact strength of the polymer compounds prepared by a method in accordance with the invention is shown in Figure 3. Example 25 A polypropylene recyclate (rPP) with 90 wt.% purity was obtained. The rPP was contaminated with non-miscible polyethylene. The rPP was subsequently subjected to (1) the method of the invention with 20 wt.% agglomerates of pyrolyzed biomass used during compounding in step (c) and (2) a corresponding method 10 in which 20 wt.% non-agglomerated pyrolyzed biomass was added in step (c).A co-rotation twin-screw extruder L / D 36.5 was used. Samples for the tests below were produced with an Arburg Allrounder 320S injection molding machine. The phase morphology of the samples was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Samples were cryo-broken to expose the internal cross-section and were provided with a thin conductive coating to prevent charge buildup. Imaging was performed with a secondary electron detector (SED) at an acceleration voltage of 5.0 kV, with an operating distance of 8.6 mm. The instrument was operated in standard point-to-charge (Std.-PC) mode at 30.0, under high vacuum conditions20 (HighVac), which ensured improved surface contrast and resolution of the microstructural features of the polymer. These imaging conditions made a clear differentiation between the two different phases of the polymer and an accurate visualization of their spatial distribution possible. 25 Figure 4(a) clearly shows that the method(1) according to the invention in a better mixing of thephases yield than the control method(2) in Figure 4(b). In both figures, the pyrolyzed biomass can be found centrally. In contrast to the biomass well embedded in the polymer in Figure 4(a), a clear cavitation can be seen.