Systems and methods for degrading polymeric materials

Abstract

A system and related method for degrading plastic materials is provided. The system comprises a main body, a hopper, a conveying system, a driving system and a UV light assembly. The associated method includes providing a polymeric material into a hopper, providing a solvent into the hopper, activating a drive system, and activating UV light.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a reactor system for degrading polymeric materials. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to a transport reactor system for degrading polymeric materials into terephthalic acid (TPA) and / or ethylene glycol and / or other monomers that form plastic materials. Background Art

[0002] PCT application publication WO2020173961A1 (incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) provides a method for alkaline hydrolysis of one or more plastic polymers into terephthalic acid (TPA) and / or ethylene glycol (EG) and / or other monomers that form one or more plastic polymers, the method comprising: a) contacting one or more plastic polymers with a metal oxide in solution in the presence of a base to provide a reaction mixture; b) stirring the reaction mixture under ultraviolet ("UV") light for a suitable period of time; c) recovering terephthalic acid, ethylene glycol and / or other monomers from the reaction mixture.

[0003] The method described in PCT application publication WO2020173961A1 may be difficult to implement economically and efficiently on a commercial scale using standard or readily available chemical processing equipment. Specifically, the configuration of the existing reaction vessel is not suitable for implementing the method disclosed above.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for an improved reaction vessel that can more economically carry out the reactions disclosed above. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to an embodiment, a reactor system for degrading a polymer material is disclosed herein. The system includes: a hopper for receiving an input material, the input material including a polymer, a solvent, a metal oxide, and a base; a body extending along a first axis, having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to the hopper, wherein the body is capable of receiving the input material introduced into the hopper; a conveying system for conveying the input material along the body; a drive system for moving the conveying system; and ultraviolet ("UV") light for exposing the input material of the body to UV radiation to degrade the input material.

[0006] According to some embodiments, the body is fluid-tight and the body contains a liquid. According to some embodiments, the polymer includes any one of the following: polylactic acid, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate, polyethylene isosorbide terephthalate, polyethylene furandicarboxylate, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, or a combination thereof.

[0007] According to some embodiments, the conveying system is positioned within the reactor system such that the conveying system can convey material introduced into the hopper from the hopper to the body. According to some embodiments, the conveying system is positioned within the reactor system such that the conveying system can convey material from a first end of the body to a second end of the body.

[0008] According to some embodiments, the conveying system comprises an Archimedean screw, the Archimedean screw comprising a central axis, wherein the Archimedean screw is configured to convey the input material along the body. According to some embodiments, the drive system is connected to the Archimedean screw, and the drive system is configured to rotate the Archimedean screw around the central axis of the Archimedean screw. According to some embodiments, the length of the Archimedean screw is between 1 meter and 10 meters.

[0009] According to an embodiment, a method of operating a reactor system is disclosed herein. The method includes providing a polymer material into a hopper, providing a solvent into the hopper, starting a drive system, and starting a UV light. According to some embodiments, the solvent includes ethanol. According to some embodiments, the method also includes providing a metal oxide into the hopper. According to some embodiments, the method also includes providing a base into the hopper. According to some embodiments, the pH value of the material provided to the reactor is greater than 7. According to some embodiments, the drive system is configured to rotate the conveyor system at a speed greater than 30 revolutions per minute.

[0010] Other aspects and features will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the following description of certain exemplary embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The accompanying drawings are used to illustrate various examples of products, methods and devices of the present specification. In the drawings: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a screw conveyor reactor system according to an embodiment; Figure 2 According to the embodiment Figure 1 A partial perspective view of a screw conveyor reactor system; Figure 3 It is shown separately according to the embodiment Figure 1 to Figure 2 A perspective view of the Archimedean screw device of the screw conveyor reactor system; Figure 4 According to the embodiment Figure 1 AA cross section Figures 1 to 3 A front cross-sectional view of a screw conveyor reactor system; Figure 5 According to the embodiment Figures 1 to 4 A detailed perspective view of the UV light components of the screw conveyor reactor system; Fig. 6A According to the embodiment Figures 1 to 5 A perspective view of a dual parallel arrangement of a screw conveyor reactor system; Figure 6B According to the embodiment Figures 1 to 5 A side view of a dual parallel arrangement of a screw conveyor reactor system; Figure 6C According to the embodiment Figure 1-5 A top view of a dual parallel arrangement of a screw conveyor reactor system; Fig.6D According to the embodiment Figures 1 to 5 A perspective view of a dual parallel arrangement of a screw conveyor reactor system; Fig. 6E According to the embodiment Figures 1 to 5 A front view of a dual parallel arrangement of a screw conveyor reactor system; Fig. 6F According to the embodiment Figures 1 to 5 A perspective view of a dual parallel arrangement of a screw conveyor reactor system; Figure 7 is a perspective view showing an Archimedean screw device of a screw conveying reactor system according to another embodiment alone; Figure 8 is a schematic block diagram of a transport reactor system according to an embodiment; Fig. 9 The operation according to the embodiment Figures 1 to 8 A flowchart of a method for a screw conveyor reactor system; and Fig.10 According to another embodiment of the invention, Figures 1 to 8 Flow chart of a method of a screw conveyor reactor system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] Various devices or processes are described below to provide examples of each claimed embodiment. The following embodiments do not limit any claimed embodiment, and any claimed embodiment may cover processes or devices different from the following embodiments. The claimed embodiments are not limited to devices or processes having all the features of any of the following devices or processes, or having features common to multiple or all of the following devices.

[0013] Furthermore, although process steps, method steps, algorithms, etc. may be described in sequence (in this disclosure and / or in the claims), these processes, methods, and algorithms may be configured to operate in an alternating sequence. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be described does not necessarily imply a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The process steps described herein may be performed in any practical order. Furthermore, some steps may be performed simultaneously.

[0014] When a single device or product is described herein, it is apparent that multiple devices / products (whether or not they cooperate) may be used in place of the single device / product. Similarly, when more than one device or product is described herein (whether or not they cooperate), it is apparent that a single device / product may be used in place of the more than one device or product. Related to the screw conveyor reactor system described herein is a method for degrading a plastic material into terephthalic acid (TPA), ethylene glycol, and / or other monomers that form the plastic material.

[0015] The method comprises: contacting one or more plastic polymers with a metal oxide in solution in the presence of a base to provide a reaction mixture; stirring the reaction mixture under ultraviolet ("UV") light for a suitable time; and recovering terephthalic acid, ethylene glycol and / or other monomers from the reaction mixture.

[0016] The process involves alkaline hydrolysis of a polymer, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which can be performed at room temperature and is relatively efficient compared to other methods of degrading polymers into their constituent monomers.

[0017] In some embodiments, the solvent is ethanol or an ethanol-water mixture. In some embodiments, the polymer is polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In some embodiments, the metal oxide is TiO2. In some embodiments, the base is NaOH. In some embodiments, the initial pH value of the reaction mixture is 14. In some embodiments, the reaction mixture is stirred at room temperature.

[0018] After recovery, the terephthalic acid may be of lower purity. For example, the terephthalic acid may be contaminated with various impurities and may require further processing to obtain commercially useful terephthalic acid, wherein the terephthalic acid can be provided to a process configured to require virgin terephthalic acid.

[0019] In the embodiment where the solvent is ethanol or an ethanol-water mixture, after the stirred reaction mixture is reacted and terephthalic acid is reclaimed, ethylene glycol can be present in a liquid mixture of water, ethanol and ethylene glycol with various ratios, and specific ratio depends on the regulation of this embodiment. Extra technology may be needed to reclaim ethylene glycol from a water-ethanol-ethylene glycol mixture. After ethylene glycol is separated from a water-ethanol-ethylene glycol mixture, the water-ethanol mixture of gained can be reused in other operations or iterations of technology described herein, or is used in other technologies.

[0020] Although the method described herein and in more detail in PCT application publication WO2020173961A1 is about degrading polyethylene terephthalate into its constituent monomers, the method can be applied to degrading other polymer materials into other constituent monomers.

[0021] A transport reactor system and related methods are described herein. Although the systems and methods described herein may be particularly applicable to the room temperature alkaline polymer hydrolysis process described above and in PCT application publication WO2020173961A1, in some embodiments, the transport reactor system described herein may be applied to other processes.

[0022] Reference now Figure 1 and Figure 2 , which depicts a perspective view of a screw conveyor reactor system 100 according to an embodiment. The reactor system 100 includes a body 102, a hopper 104, a cover 108, a conveying system (e.g., an Archimedean screw 112), a drive system 106, an outlet 140, and an ultraviolet (UV) light assembly 110.

[0023] The body 102 includes a substantially rectangular slot having a length extending along the first axis 138. The body 102 is configured to be fluid-tight so that a fluid introduced into the body 102 does not flow out of the body. The body 102 can be constructed of stainless steel or other materials that provide sufficient mechanical strength, fluid tightness, and chemical resistance to the contents of the body 102 (e.g., a highly alkaline material with a pH of 14) during operation of the system 100. Although the embodiments shown herein include a substantially rectangular shape, in other embodiments, the body 102 can include other shapes.

[0024] The body 102 also includes a cover 108. The cover 108 is hinged on the side wall of the body 102 so that the cover 108 can be rotated to an open position 108a and a closed position 108b. When placed in the closed position 108b, the cover 108 can seal the body 102 so that the contents do not spill out of the body 102 during operation of the system, and the volatile compounds do not leave the body 102, thereby reducing the possibility that human operators near the system 100 may be exposed to danger from contact with the volatile compounds. In some examples, the interface between the body 102 and the cover 108 can include a gasket to provide a fluid seal when in the closed position 108b. The gasket can provide a fluid seal for the liquid, and the volatile compound can be applied to the system 100.

[0025] exist Figure 1 to Figure 2 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the lower portion of the body 102 includes a circular profile that mirrors the outer profile of the Archimedean screw device 112 .

[0026] The hopper 104 includes a container that is connected to the body 102 at the first end 102a of the body. The hopper 104 is a substantially square funnel-shaped structure with an open top. In some embodiments, the hopper 104 also includes a removable cover to prevent materials and / or volatile substances from leaving the hopper 104 during operation of the system 100. The hopper 104 is connected to the body 102 so that the material entering the hopper 104 can leave the hopper 104 and enter the body 102. The hopper 104 can be constructed of stainless steel or other materials that provide sufficient mechanical strength, fluid tightness, and chemical resistance to the contents of the hopper 104 (e.g., a highly alkaline material with a pH of 14) during operation of the system 100.

[0027] The hopper 104 is configured to receive input materials into the system 100, such as polymer materials for degradation, solvents, pH adjustment chemicals, catalysts, and / or other materials, and the hopper 104 delivers these materials to the body 102. In some embodiments, the hopper 104 may not be provided in the system 100, and materials may be supplied to the system 100 by alternative means. For example, another machine or component may input the material directly into the body 102 through a hole in the body 102. In some examples, the hopper 104 may be integrated into the body 102 or other components of the system 100.

[0028] The drive system 106 includes a device that can impart rotational motion to another object. The drive system 106 can include an electric motor, a gasoline engine, a diesel engine, an output shaft of another machine or system, or another device that imparts rotational motion to another object. The drive system 106 can also include a gearbox for regulating the output speed, control electronics, a speed sensor, a torque sensor, an external control interface, or other auxiliary components.

[0029] The UV light assembly 110 includes a component configured to emit light in the ultraviolet spectrum. The UV light assembly 110 can project light in the UV spectrum onto the contents of the body 102. The UV light assembly 110 extends along the length of the body 102 so that the contents at different locations within the body 102 can be exposed to the UV light during operation of the system 100. The outlet 140 includes an opening connected to the body 102 so that the contents within the body 102 can exit the system 100 through the outlet 140. In some examples, the size and shape of the outlet 140 can be specifically configured so that the material exiting through the outlet 140 is extruded with a specific profile for further processing.

[0030] In some examples, system 100 may also include a cooling and / or heating system configured to maintain a component or environment of system 100 within a specific temperature range. Such a temperature control system may be computer controlled and may include resistive heating elements, heat pumps, refrigeration systems, fuel heating elements, or any other suitable heating or cooling components.

[0031] Reference now Figure 3 , depicted is an isolated perspective view of a delivery system (e.g., Archimedean screw 112) of a reactor system 100. The Archimedean screw 112 includes an elongated central shaft 116 extending along a central axis 114, wherein continuous spiral blades 118 are positioned substantially perpendicular to the central shaft 116 of the Archimedean screw 112. The spiral blades 118 include a dimension of a pitch 124. The pitch 124 can vary depending on the specific application of the system 100.

[0032] The Archimedean screw 112 can be mounted to the body 102, the hopper 104, and / or other components of the system 100 to enable the Archimedean screw 112 to rotate about the central axis 116. For example, the Archimedean screw 112 can be connected to the body 102 via a rotary bearing. In some examples, such a rotary bearing can be configured to be fluid-tight or chemically resistant.

[0033] As the Archimedean screw 112 rotates about the central axis 116, the Archimedean screw 112 can transfer material from the hopper 104 to the body 102 and along the length of the body 102 from the first end 102a to the second end 102b because the blades 118 push the material along the length of the body 102 as the Archimedean screw 112 rotates. The Archimedean screw 112 can be constructed of stainless steel or other materials that provide sufficient mechanical strength, fluid tightness, and chemical resistance to the contents of the body 102 (e.g., a highly alkaline material with a pH of 14) during operation of the system 100.

[0034] exist Figures 1 to 3In an embodiment of the invention, the Archimedean screw 112 further includes three scoops 120 extending along the length of the Archimedean screw 112, parallel or spirally relative to the axis 114, and periodically intersecting the spiral blades 118. In some embodiments, the scoops 120 do not extend to the central axis 116, so that there is a gap between each scoop 120 and the central axis 116 along the length of the Archimedean screw 112 to allow some liquid to flow out through the Archimedean screw 112 during operation of the system 100. This liquid outflow can allow the contents to be mixed more thoroughly, and can also reduce mechanical stress on the Archimedean screw 112, related components (e.g., mounting hardware and bearings), and the drive system 106, as well as reduce the torque requirements of the drive system 106.

[0035] Each bucket 120 has a concave curved profile. This curved profile enables the Archimedean screw 112 to scoop up contents from the lower portion of the body 102 and extract these contents to the upper portion of the body 102 so that the contents can be evenly exposed to UV light during operation of the system 100. The exact size, number, and shape of the buckets 120 can be adjusted depending on the use of the system 100. For example, if the use of the system 100 includes conveying and mixing more viscous contents, the size can be changed to achieve more thorough mixing and reduce the mechanical stress of each component. The curved shape of the bucket 120 of the present embodiment can reduce the mechanical stress on the bucket 120 and the Archimedean screw 112, which can further reduce the torque requirements of the drive system 106.

[0036] When the system 100 is in operation and the Archimedean screw 112 rotates, the presence of the bucket 120 can promote mixing and stirring of the contents within the body 102. In addition, the bucket 120 can mix and adjust the position of the contents of the system 100 so that the contents can be more evenly exposed to the UV light emitted by the UV light assembly 110, thereby improving the processing efficiency.

[0037] Between each intersection of each bucket 120 and the spiral blade 118, two apertures 122 are provided on the surface of each bucket 120. In the present embodiment, each aperture 122 is approximately elliptical in shape, having a large aspect ratio. According to some embodiments, the aspect ratio of each elliptical aperture 122 may be about 10. In other embodiments, there may be a different number of apertures 122 on each bucket 120, and the apertures 122 may include different sizes and shapes, including but not limited to circular, square, polygonal or other shapes.

[0038] The presence of apertures 122 can promote mixing and stirring of the contents within body 102. According to some embodiments, this enhanced mixing and stirring can improve process efficiency. In addition, apertures 122 can mix and adjust the position of the contents of system 100 so that the contents can be more evenly exposed to the UV light emitted by UV light assembly 110, thereby improving processing efficiency.

[0039] Reference now Figure 4 , which depicts the Figure 1 A front cross-sectional view of the screw conveyor reactor system 100 at section AA. Figure 4 1 and 2. The Archimedean screw 112 can be seen in the main body 102. The main body 102 includes a bottom surface 128. The bottom surface 128 includes a continuously curved portion of material that connects each vertical side of the main body 102. The radius of curvature of the bottom surface 128 is configured to substantially match or correspond to the outer radius 126 of the Archimedean screw 112, so that when the Archimedean screw 112 is in the operating position in the main body 102, there is little to no clearance between the outer envelope of the Archimedean screw 112 and the bottom surface 128. This configuration improves the ability of the Archimedean screw 112 to transport material along the main body 102 from the first end 102a to the second end 102b because there is little clearance between the outer radius 126 of the Archimedean screw 112 and the bottom surface 128 of the main body 102, and the material is less likely to accumulate and stagnate.

[0040] Additionally, Figure 4 134. Liquid level 134 includes the liquid level at which the mixture of fluid (e.g., solvent and other fluids) and input polymer material is at rest when system 100 is in operation. In some embodiments, liquid level 134 may preferably be located above the outer diameter of central axis 116. According to some embodiments, such a liquid level may have an improved processing efficiency compared to other liquid levels. According to some embodiments, such a liquid level 134 provides a favorable ratio of the volume of the reaction mixture to the surface area of ​​the reaction mixture contacted by UV light. Raising the liquid level above this height can increase the volume of the reaction mixture while maintaining the area of ​​the reaction mixture in contact with UV light. If the liquid level is below liquid level 134, the area of ​​the reaction mixture in contact with UV light will be reduced because the UV light exposure may be blocked by central axis 116, bucket 120 and / or blade 118. The rate at which the UV light exposure area of ​​the reaction mixture decreases may be greater than the rate at which the volume decreases, depending on the geometry of system 100.

[0041] like Figure 4As shown, the body 102 also includes a vertical wall dimension 142. The vertical wall dimension 142 can be specifically configured so that when the system 100 is in operation, the contents within the body 102 are less likely to be directed, lifted, or splashed to a level above the upper limit of the vertical wall dimension 142. This can reduce material splashing and residue deposition on components of the UV light assembly 110, which may reduce the intensity of the UV light output or damage the components of the UV light assembly 110. Similarly, according to the inverse square law, as the distance between the UV light assembly 110 and the contents of the body 102 (e.g., the liquid level 134) increases, the UV light intensity will decrease. The vertical wall dimension 142 can be configured to optimize and balance content splashing and UV light intensity.

[0042] Reference now Figure 5 , which shows a detailed perspective view of the UV light assembly 110 of the reactor system 100. The UV light assembly 110 also includes a UV light source 130, a reflector 136, and ultraviolet screens 132a, 132b. The UV light source 130 includes a light source that outputs electromagnetic radiation within the ultraviolet wavelength spectrum (wavelengths of 10nm to 400nm). Preferably, the UV light source 130 emits electromagnetic radiation within the UVA wavelength spectrum (wavelengths of 315nm to 400nm) with a relatively high intensity. The UV light source 130 can be a fluorescent light source, a light emitting diode light source, or other light source. In Figure 5 In the embodiment of the present invention, the UV light source 130 is a fluorescent tube type UV light source 130, which includes two parallel lengths of UVA emitting fluorescent tubes.

[0043] The reflector 136 includes a component located between the UV light source 130 and the interior of the body 102. The reflector 136 reflects the UV light emitted by the UV light source 130 back into the interior of the body 102, thereby improving the efficiency of the UV light transmitted from the UV light source 130 to the contents of the body 102. Additionally, the reflector 136 prevents the UV light emitted by the UV light source 130 from escaping from the interior of the body 102, thereby reducing the risk of UV light irradiating nearby personnel and operators of the reactor system 100. The reflector 136 can be made of polymers, metals, glass or other suitable reflective materials and coated with a thin layer of UV reflective coating. In other embodiments, the reflector 136 is configured to reflect the received UV light and prevent the UV light from passing through the reflector 136.

[0044] The UV screen 132a includes a solid component that is transparent to UV light. The UV screen 132a is located between the UV light source 130 and the interior of the body 102 so that the contents of the body 102 do not contact the UV light source 130. According to some applications of the system 100, the contents of the body 102 may be corrosive or otherwise damage sensitive electrical components, such as the UV light source 130 or related components. The UV screen 132a can advantageously protect the UV light source 130 from contacting the contents of the body 102, thereby preventing damage to various parts of the system 100. The UV screen 132a can be easily cleaned or repaired as needed.

[0045] The UV screen 132b comprises a solid component that is opaque to UV light but at least partially transparent to visible light. The UV screen 132b is located on the cover 108 covering the interior of the body 102 so that when the cover 108 is closed, visible light can pass through the UV screen 132b of the cover 108, but UV light may not pass through the UV screen 132b of the cover 108. The UV screen 132b can advantageously allow an operator to visually assess the contents and processes occurring within the body 102 while the cover 108 is closed and the system 100 is operating, while minimizing the risk of UV light exposure that may be harmful to a human operator. The UV screen 132b can be easily cleaned or serviced as needed.

[0046] In some examples, the system 100 may include a cooling or protective fluid flow instead or in addition to the UV screen 132a. The fluid flow can prevent the contents of the body 102 or the system 100 from splashing onto the UV light source 130, thereby preventing damage to the components of the system 100. Additionally, such a cooling or protective fluid flow can remove heat from the UV light source 130, thereby improving the performance or life of the UV light source 130. Such a cooling or protective fluid flow can be transparent to UV light and can include an air flow, a water flow, or other suitable fluid flow.

[0047] According to an embodiment, in the operation of the screw conveyor reactor system 100, the polymer material to be degraded is introduced into the hopper 104, and the solvent (e.g., ethanol or an ethanol-water mixture) is directly introduced into the body or introduced into the body 102 through the hopper. In addition, the metal oxide catalyst (e.g., TiO2) and the base (e.g., NaOH) can be directly introduced into the body 102 or introduced into the body 102 through the hopper 104.

[0048] In some examples, the polymer material introduced into system 100 can be selected from a group including, but not limited to, polylactic acid (PLA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT), polyethylene isosorbide terephthalate (PEIT), polyethylene furanoate (PEF), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or combinations thereof.

[0049] In some examples, the solvent introduced into the system 100 can be selected from the group including, but not limited to, methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol, pentanol, or combinations thereof.

[0050] In some examples, the catalyst introduced into system 100 can be selected from the group including, but not limited to, TiO2, V2O5, Cr2O3, CrO3, Mn2O3, FeO, Fe2O3, Fe3O4, Co2O3, NiO, CuO, Cu2O, ZnO, ZrO2, Nb2O5, Mo2O3, RuO, RuO2, RuO4, RhO2, Rh2O3, PdO, Ag2O, Ag2O2, CdO, In2O3, Al2O3, La2O3, CeO2, Ce2O3, HfO2, Ta2O5, WO3, ReO2, ReO3, Re2O3, OsO2, OsO4, IrO2, PtO2, Au2O3, Li2O, Na2O, K2O, MgO, CaO, SrO, BaO and P25, or a combination thereof.

[0051] In some examples, the base introduced into the system 100 may be selected from the group including, but not limited to, NaOH, NaOMe, NaOEt, NaOPr, NaO t Bu, KOH, KOMe, KOEt, KO i Pr t Bu, LiOH, LiOMe, LiOEt, LiO i Pr、LiO t Bu, Rb(OH), RbOMe, RbOEt, RbO i Pr、RbO t Bu, CsOH, CeOMe, CsOET, CsO i Pr、CsO t Bu, Fr(OH), FrOMe, FrOEt, FrO i Pr、FrO t Bu, Be(OH)2, Be(OMe)2, Be(OEt)2, Be(O i Pr)2、Be(O tBu)2, Mg(OH)2, Mg(OMe)2, Mg(OEt)2, Mg(O i Pr)2、Mg( t OBu)2, Ca(OH)2, Ca(OMe)2, Ca(OEt)2, Ca(O i Pr)2、Ca( t OBu)2, Sr(OH)2, Sr(OMe)2, Sr(OEt)2, Sr(O i Pr)2、Sr( t OBu)2, Ba(OH)2, Ba(OMe)2, Ba(OEt)2, Ba(O i Pr)2、Ba( t OBu)2, Ra(OH)2, Ra(OMe)2, Ra(OEt)2, Ra(O i Pr)2, Ra(tOBu)2 and NH4(OH) or a combination thereof.

[0052] Once these materials are introduced into the system 100, the drive system 106 and the UV light assembly 110 can be activated to rotate the Archimedes screw 112 and expose the contents of the body 102 to UV light. As the Archimedes screw 112 rotates, the contents of the body 102 and the hopper 104 are transported toward the second end 102b of the system 100. The contents of the system 100 are continuously mixed by the rotation of the Archimedes screw 112, pulling the materials from the bottom of the body 102 to the top of the body 102, so that the contents can be exposed to UV light in a relatively uniform manner.

[0053] As the contents within the system 100 are delivered from the hopper 104 and the first end 102a, the contents are directed to the second end 102b and the outlet 140. As the contents move toward the second end 102b, the contents continue to react such that once the contents reach the second end 102b and the outlet 140, the contents have been completely processed according to the specifications of the desired chemical process to which the system 100 is applied.

[0054] The components of the system 100 can be configured so that once the contents reach the second end 102b and the outlet 140, the desired chemical process has been completed, so that the material discharged from the outlet 140 has been completely processed. For example, the radius 126, pitch 124, and length of the Archimedean screw 124; the dimensions of the body 102 and hopper 104; the curvature, position, and number of the bucket 120; the number, shape, and size of the apertures 122; the intensity of the UV light irradiated on the contents; the rotational speed of the Archimedean screw 112, and other parameters that may affect the processing rate can be configured according to the desired chemical process to be applied by the system 100.

[0055] The mechanical design of system 100 is configured to improve chemical processes by applying continuous processes, improving reaction mixing, maintaining uniformity of the reaction mixture (wherein the action of the blades ensures that the reaction mixture is uniform and in regular contact with the UV light), ensuring that the input reactants do not settle or stagnate within the system 100, and ensuring that the reaction mixture remains in constant motion and in constant contact with the UV light to avoid clogging of the system 100 and deposition of material on the UV light source 130 due to material drying or other reasons.

[0056] The modular mechanical design of the system 100 also allows the process performed by the system 100 to be scaled or otherwise optimized as desired. For example, multiple systems 100 may be connected together in series to increase the scale of a base process. The overall structure and design of the system 100 is easy to clean and maintain because the interior of the body 102 is easily accessible for service. In addition, because the system 100 is easily accessible through the cover 108, the system 100 can be maintained, modified, or repaired during operation.

[0057] Reference now 6A to 6F , which shows various views of a paired screw conveyor reactor system 100, showing views of the system with and without various components arranged in a parallel configuration. The screw conveyor reactors do not include a hopper, instead, the outlet of the first screw conveyor reactor feeds the inlet of the second screw conveyor reactor, and the outlet of the second screw conveyor reactor feeds the inlet of the first screw conveyor reactor. This dual parallel arrangement allows for continuous operation, where material within the body of the screw conveyor reactor system 100 is continuously circulated between the screw conveyor reactors, which is similar to Figures 1 to 5 The configuration of the embodiments is different, in Figures 1 to 5 In the embodiment of the present invention, input materials are provided into the hopper 104 and conveyed along the body 102, the input materials are mixed and the mixture is exposed to UV light to complete the desired chemical process (e.g., room temperature degradation of PET). 6A to 6F In the embodiment of the present invention, the paired screw-conveyor reactor system 600 can accommodate a total of 150 L of fluid in the main body of the two reactors (ie, each reactor can accommodate 75 L of fluid). The screw-conveyor reactor system 600 can be a reference Figures 1 to 5 A screw conveyor reactor system 100 is described.

[0058] exist Figures 6A to 6FIn the embodiment of the present invention, the spiral conveying reactor system 600 can be connected in a series configuration or in a loop configuration. In the series configuration, the reactor can be connected in a planar mode or a vertical mode. In the vertical mode, the system can be constructed to run in an ascending configuration or a descending configuration. In the descending configuration, the contents in the reactor may be pushed to the outlet or the next reactor in the series under the action of gravity. In the ascending configuration, a reactor can be positioned so that the outlet of the reactor is at the same vertical level as the inlet of the next reactor. System 600 includes components similar to system 100 and system 400, and the reference numerals of its components have increased by 500 and 200 respectively. The description of system 100 and system 400 herein is also applicable to system 600.

[0059] For example, 6A to 6F Visible in FIG. 6 are body 602, drive system 606, UV light 610, and transport subsystem 612. Figure 6C and Fig. 6E Also visible is a system connector 644. The system connector 644 connects the various reactor systems 600 to each other to form a loop configuration or a series configuration, where material in one reactor system can be transferred to another reactor system via the system connector 644. Although the system connector 644 is shown in a particular form and location, in other embodiments, the configuration, number, and location of the system connector 644 may vary.

[0060] Reference now Figure 7 , depicted is an alternative embodiment of an Archimedean screw 312 for use in a screw-conveyed reactor system, such as the system 100 described herein. The screw 312 differs from the screw 112 in that the screw 312 includes two buckets 320, while the screw 112 includes three buckets 120. In addition, the buckets 320 of the screw 312 are arranged in a spiral pattern, while the buckets 120 are arranged linearly. Each bucket 320 is radially rotated 180° along the length of the screw 312, so that the bucket 320 is positioned from a first position at one end of the screw 312 to a position at an opposite end of the screw 312 that is 180° relative to the first position (relative to the central axis of the screw 312). This radial rotation of the buckets 320 can increase processing efficiency by more evenly exposing the contents of the system 100 to UV light during operation.

[0061] Reference now Figure 8, depicted is a schematic block diagram of a transport reactor system 400 according to an embodiment. System 400 includes a body 402, a drive system 406, a transport system 412, a UV light 410, and optionally an outlet 440 and a hopper 404. The components of system 400 may have features of system 100, with the reference numeral for each component being increased by 300. Details of the components of system 100 may apply to system 400.

[0062] Body 402 comprises a structure that houses and contains process input materials such as polymers, solvents, bases, metal oxides and other fluids, solids or mixtures. Body 402 is the primary container or vessel in which the chemical reaction occurs.

[0063] Delivery system 412 is located within body 402 and is configured to deliver material from one location within body 402 to another location within body 402. Delivery system 412 also mixes the contents within body 402 to ensure uniformity of the contents of body 402 and uniformly exposes the contents of body 402 to UV light. Delivery system 412 includes a structure or device that delivers the contents from one location within body 402 to another location.

[0064] Drive system 406 includes a device connected to conveyor system 412 to move conveyor system 412. Drive system 406 may include a motor, a motor, an actuator, an external force input (eg, an input shaft), or another device that transmits motion to another device.

[0065] UV light 410 includes a device that can output electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength between 10 nm and 400 nm. UV light 410 is located above body 402 so that when system 400 is operated, the contents of body 402 can be exposed to UV wavelength light. In some examples, UV light 410 can be integrated into body 402.

[0066] System 400 may also optionally include hopper 404 and outlet 440. Hopper 404 is connected to body 402 such that material is introduced into hopper 404 and transferred into body 402. In some examples, hopper 404 is integrated into body 402 such that body 402 and hopper 404 form a single component.

[0067] The outlet 440 includes a structure connected to the body 402 so that the contents within the body 402 can be discharged from the system 400 through the outlet 440. In some examples, the outlet 440 can be integrated into the body 402 so that the outlet 440 and the body 402 constitute a single component.

[0068] In some examples, outlet 440 can include different shapes and locations. Outlet 440 can be located at the bottom of body 402, located at the side of body 402, or aligned with the axis of delivery system 412. Outlet 440 can also include a filter or other component for collecting, separating or filtering materials leaving system 400, such as unreacted solution, impurities, or other materials of interest.

[0069] Reference now Fig. 9 , which depicts an overview of the operation Figures 1 to 8 Flow chart of method 200 for a screw conveyor reactor system. Method 200 includes steps 202, 204, 206, 208 and 210. Fig. 9 The flowchart of 200 depicts a sequential, linear method, but the method steps 202 , 204 , 206 , 208 , and 210 may be performed in any order. In step 202, a screw conveyor reactor system is provided. The screw conveyor reactor system may be a reference Figures 1 to 8 The described screw conveyor reactor system 100, or any variation thereof. In step 204, polymer material is introduced into a hopper of a reactor system. In step 206, a solvent is introduced into a hopper of the reactor system. In step 208, the drive system of the reactor system is started. In step 210, the UV light of the reactor system is activated. In some examples of method 300 , step 206 may be performed first, followed by step 208 , and then step 204 .

[0070] Reference now Fig.10 , which depicts an overview of the operation Figures 1 to 8 Flow chart of an alternative method 300 for a reactor system of FIG. Method 300 may include any or all of the steps of method 200 in any order, and also include steps 302 and / or 304. In step 302, base is provided into a hopper. In step 304, metal oxide is provided into a hopper.

[0071] Although the above description provides examples of one or more apparatuses, methods, or systems, it should be appreciated that a person skilled in the art would appreciate that other apparatuses, methods, or systems may also be within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A reactor system for degrading a polymer material, the system comprising: a hopper for receiving input materials, the input materials comprising a polymer, a solvent, a metal oxide, and a base; a body extending along a first axis and having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to a hopper, wherein the body is capable of receiving an input material introduced into the hopper; a conveying system for conveying the input material along the body; a drive system for moving the conveying system; as well as Ultraviolet ("UV") light for exposing the input material of the body to UV radiation to degrade the input material.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the body is fluid-tight and contains a liquid.

3. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the polymer comprises any one of the following: polylactic acid, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate, polyethylene isosorbide terephthalate, polyethylene furandicarboxylate, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, or a combination thereof.

4. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the delivery system is positioned within the reactor system such that the delivery system can deliver material introduced into the hopper from the hopper to the body.

5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the delivery system is located within the reactor system such that the delivery system can deliver material from a first end of the body to a second end of the body.

6. The system of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the conveying system comprises an Archimedean screw comprising a central axis, wherein the Archimedean screw is configured to convey input material along the body.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the drive system is connected to the Archimedean screw, and the drive system is configured to rotate the Archimedean screw about a central axis of the Archimedean screw.

8. The system according to any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein the length of the Archimedean screw is between 1 meter and 10 meters.

9. A method of operating the system of any one of claims 1 to 8, the method comprising: providing a polymer material into a hopper; providing a solvent into the hopper; Start the drive system; as well as Start the UV light.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the solvent comprises ethanol.

11. The method of any one of claims 9 to 10, further comprising providing a metal oxide into a hopper.

12. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising providing a base into the hopper.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the pH of the material provided to the reactor is greater than 7.

14. The method of any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the drive system is configured to rotate the conveyor system at a speed greater than 30 revolutions per minute.

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