Resin material regeneration method, regeneration support apparatus, and program

Abstract

To provide a regeneration method capable of producing a regenerated material by mixing recycled materials at an appropriate ratio without relying on experience.SOLUTION: A regeneration method comprises a preliminary step, a correlation derivation step, a preparation step, and a mixing ratio derivation step. In the preliminary step, three levels of resin material samples are prepared, each exhibiting different degrees of oxidative degradation while sharing identical morphological conditions suitable for degradation measurement. In the correlation derivation step, a correlation is established between the indicator values representing the oxidative degradation of the samples and the characteristic values, such as strength or appearance, of test pieces formed from the same resin material. In the preparation step, samples of recycled material are prepared under the same morphological conditions as under those for the samples of resin material. Finally, in the mixing ratio derivation step, the indicator value of the recycled material sample is used, based on the previously derived correlation, to determine the mixing ratio between virgin and recycled materials required to obtain a regenerated material with a desired characteristic value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for recycling a resin material, which is produced by recycling a resin material from virgin resin material and recycled resin material. [Background technology]

[0002] The above-mentioned regeneration method is disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a method for recycling (regenerating) polyolefin resins. According to the regenerating method of Patent Document 1, a suitable resin material can be regenerated by mixing recycled material in a range of 1 to 56 mass % of the total amount with virgin material. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-007097 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] As shown by the extremely wide range of mixing ratios of 1 to 56% by mass in Patent Document 1, it is difficult to pinpoint the appropriate mixing ratio of recycled materials in resins, not limited to polyolefin-based resins. If the mixing ratio is too low, sufficient recycling is not possible. On the other hand, if the mixing ratio is too high, a recycled-material-containing resin (hereinafter simply referred to as "recycled material") with appropriate properties such as strength cannot be obtained. Furthermore, in prior art including Patent Document 1, it is unclear how to pinpoint the appropriate mixing ratio. For this reason, recycled materials are generally mixed at a low mixing ratio based on experience. However, there is a need for a method that can pinpoint the appropriate mixing ratio without relying on experience.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a recycling method that can produce a recycled material containing recycled materials in an appropriate mixing ratio without relying on experience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention provides a first regeneration method, A method for recycling a resin material, which produces a recycled material-containing resin from a virgin material and a recycled material containing at least one of a pre-consumer recycled material and a consumer recycled material, a pre-process of preparing three or more levels of samples of the resin material, the samples having different degrees of oxidative degradation, but the samples having the same morphological conditions suitable for measuring the degree of oxidative degradation; a correlation deriving step of deriving a correlation between an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the sample and a characteristic value indicating the strength or appearance of a test piece formed from the same resin material as the sample; a preparation step of preparing a recycled sample that is a sample of the recycled material, the recycled sample having the same morphological conditions as the sample; and a mixing ratio deriving step of deriving a mixing ratio between the virgin material and the recycled material to obtain the recycled material-containing resin having the desired characteristic value based on the correlation from the index value of the recycled material. A regeneration method is provided.

[0008] The present invention provides a second regeneration method, which is the first regeneration method, the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide or the oxidation induction time, the characteristic value is a mechanical characteristic value or an optical characteristic value, When the sample and the recycled sample are both solids in the same transparent / opaque state, or when the sample and the recycled sample are both liquids, the sample and the recycled sample have the same morphological conditions. A regeneration method is provided.

[0009] The present invention provides a third regeneration method, A method for recycling a resin material, which produces a recycled material-containing resin from a virgin material and a recycled material containing at least one of a pre-consumer recycled material and a consumer recycled material, a pre-process of preparing three or more levels of samples of the resin material, the samples having different degrees of oxidative degradation, but the samples having the same morphological conditions suitable for measuring the degree of oxidative degradation; a correlation deriving step of deriving a correlation between an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the sample and a characteristic value indicating processing characteristics when molding the same resin material as the sample; a preparation step of preparing a recycled sample that is a sample of the recycled material, the recycled sample having the same morphological conditions as the sample; and a mixing ratio deriving step of deriving a mixing ratio between the virgin material and the recycled material to obtain the recycled material-containing resin having the desired characteristic value based on the correlation from the index value of the recycled material. A regeneration method is provided.

[0010] The present invention provides a fourth regeneration method, which is the third regeneration method, the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide or the oxidation induction time, The characteristic value is a value indicating viscosity, rheological properties, or thermal properties during melting or solidification, When the sample and the recycled sample are both solids in the same transparent / opaque state, or when the sample and the recycled sample are both liquids, the sample and the recycled sample have the same morphological conditions. A regeneration method is provided.

[0011] The present invention provides a fifth regeneration method, which is the second or fourth regeneration method, the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence, Both the sample and the recycled sample are transparent solids. A regeneration method is provided.

[0012] The present invention provides a sixth regeneration method, which is the fifth regeneration method, When the sample and the recycled sample are pulverized, the sample and the recycled sample are sieved with sieves having the same mesh size. A regeneration method is provided.

[0013] The present invention provides a seventh regeneration method, which is the fifth regeneration method, The temperature reached when measuring the amount of chemiluminescence is a temperature at which the thermal weight loss rate of the sample or the recycled sample in thermogravimetric analysis under nitrogen flow is 1% or less. A regeneration method is provided.

[0014] The present invention provides an eighth regeneration method, which is the second or fourth regeneration method, the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence, Both the sample and the recycled sample are opaque solids. A regeneration method is provided.

[0015] The present invention provides a ninth regeneration method, which is the eighth regeneration method, When the sample and the recycled sample are pulverized, the sample and the recycled sample are sieved with sieves having the same mesh size. A regeneration method is provided.

[0016] The present invention provides a tenth regeneration method, which is the eighth regeneration method, The temperature reached when measuring the amount of chemiluminescence is a temperature at which the thermal weight loss rate of the sample or the recycled sample in thermogravimetric analysis under nitrogen flow is 1% or less. A regeneration method is provided.

[0017] The present invention provides an eleventh regeneration method, which is the second or fourth regeneration method, The index value is an oxidation induction time, The temperature at which the oxidation induction time is measured is a temperature at which the thermal weight loss rate of the sample or the recycled sample is 1% or less in a thermogravimetric analysis under a nitrogen flow. A regeneration method is provided.

[0018] The present invention provides a first playback support device, A recycling support device that supports the recycling of resin materials from virgin materials and recycled materials including at least one of pre-consumer recycled materials and consumer recycled materials, The regeneration support device includes a chemiluminescence measurement device and a control device, The chemiluminescence measuring device is capable of measuring an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the resin material sample, and is also capable of measuring an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the recycled material. the control device is equipped with an input device and is communicably connected to the chemiluminescence measurement device; the control device is capable of executing a correlation deriving process and a mixing ratio deriving process; the control device, in the correlation deriving process, derives a correlation between the index value of the sample received from the chemiluminescence measuring device and a characteristic value of a test piece formed from the same resin material as the sample and input from the input device; In the mixing ratio derivation process, the control device derives a mixing ratio between the virgin material and the recycled material to obtain a recycled-material-containing resin having a desired characteristic value based on the correlation from the index value of the recycled material received from the chemiluminescence measurement device. A playback support device is provided.

[0019] The present invention provides, as a first program, A program is provided for causing a computer to function as a control device in a first playback support device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to the present invention, the mixing ratio of recycled materials can be calculated automatically by calculating a correlation between the degree of oxidative degradation of a sample and the characteristic values, such as the strength, of a test piece formed from the sample. Specifically, the mixing ratio of virgin material to recycled material required to obtain a recycled material having desired characteristic values ​​can be calculated precisely based on the correlation calculated in advance from an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the recycled material. Therefore, according to the present invention, a recycling method can be provided that can produce recycled materials containing recycled materials at an appropriate mixing ratio without relying on experience. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 3 is a flowchart illustrating a playback method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a method for measuring chemiluminescence derived from an oxide of a resin material. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a part of a chemiluminescence measuring device used in the regeneration method of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a part of another chemiluminescence measuring device used in the regeneration method of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a playback support device that supports the playback method of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] 6 is a flowchart showing a control process of the playback support device of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] 6 is a flowchart showing a correlation derivation process performed by the playback support device of FIG. 5. [Figure 8] 6 is a flowchart showing a mixing ratio derivation process of the reproduction support device of FIG. 5. [Figure 9] 2 is a diagram showing an example of a correlation derived in the reproduction method of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 10] 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of a correlation derived in the reproduction method of FIG. [Figure 11] 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of a correlation derived in the reproduction method of FIG. [Figure 12]1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of a correlation derived in the reproduction method of FIG. [Figure 13] 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of a correlation derived in the reproduction method of FIG. [Figure 14] 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of a correlation derived in the reproduction method of FIG. [Figure 15] 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of a correlation derived in the reproduction method of FIG. [Figure 16] 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of a correlation derived in the reproduction method of FIG. [Figure 17] 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of a correlation derived in the reproduction method of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] A large number of plastic products are used in a variety of facilities, including homes, commercial facilities, and industrial facilities. These plastic products are made from resin materials. Resin materials can be broadly divided into virgin materials and recycled materials. Recycled materials can be broadly divided into pre-consumer recycled materials and consumer recycled materials. Virgin materials are resin materials newly manufactured from raw materials such as petroleum.

[0023] JIS Q14021:2000 (ISO14021:1999) defines pre-consumer materials as "materials removed from the waste stream in the manufacturing process. Excluding reuse of items that are unsuitable for processing, polishing, scrap, etc. that can be reused in the same process as they were generated." Post-consumer materials are defined as "materials discarded from households, or materials generated as products that can no longer be used for their original purpose by commercial, industrial, and various other facilities that are end users of products. This includes materials returned from distribution channels."

[0024] Based on the above definitions, the recycled materials in the embodiments of the present invention can be briefly defined as follows: pre-consumer recycled materials are offcuts of resin materials generated during the manufacturing process of plastic products, and consumer recycled materials are waste materials from plastic products that are no longer in use in homes or facilities due to damage or deterioration.

[0025] With the increasing demand for recycling, there is a need to effectively use recycled materials when manufacturing plastic products. More specifically, there is a need to manufacture plastic products not only from virgin materials, but also from recycled-material-containing resins (recycled materials) produced by mixing virgin materials and recycled materials. There is also a need to increase the ratio of recycled materials mixed in recycled materials.

[0026] On the other hand, resin materials oxidize and deteriorate every time they are used to manufacture plastic products. Furthermore, resin materials oxidize and deteriorate as the plastic products are used. In other words, resin materials gradually deteriorate as they are recycled.

[0027] In order to meet the above-mentioned demands for recycling, this embodiment provides a method for recycling resin materials, in which recycled materials (recycled material-containing resins) are produced from virgin materials and recycled materials containing at least one of pre-consumer recycled materials and consumer recycled materials. In particular, this embodiment provides an efficient method for recycling resin materials while taking into consideration the deterioration of resin materials that accompanies recycling. In this embodiment, the recycled materials may contain only one of pre-consumer recycled materials and consumer recycled materials, or may contain both pre-consumer recycled materials and consumer recycled materials.

[0028] As a premise for explaining the recycling method of this embodiment, the target material, which is a resin material used in the recycling method of this embodiment, will be explained below.

[0029] The target material of this embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it is a resin material that can be used to manufacture plastic products. For example, the target material may be a thermoplastic resin or a thermoplastic elastomer such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide (PA), polyacetal (POM), polycarbonate (PC), polyphenylene ether (PPE), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), cycloolefin polymer (COP), polysulfone (PSU), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), or liquid crystal polymer (LCP); a biodegradable resin such as cellulose acetate (CA), polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), or polybutylene succinate (PBS); or a thermosetting resin such as epoxy resin (EP) or silicone resin (SI).

[0030] The target material may be formed solely from a base material that is a resin material, or may be formed from a base material and an additive compounded into the base material. When the target material is formed from a base material and an additive compound, the type of additive compound is not particularly limited. For example, the target material may be a polymer blend or polymer alloy in which a polymer base material is blended with a polymer additive compound.

[0031] As described above, the recycling method of this embodiment can be applied to any resin material. However, according to the recycling method of this embodiment, a predetermined measurement is performed on a sample made from the target material (resin material). In this predetermined measurement, the shape of the sample must be adjusted depending on the transparent or opaque state (transparent / opaque state) of the target material, as described below. In this embodiment, a transparent state of the sample means that objects on the opposite side can be seen through the sample without cloudiness or distortion. A translucent state of the sample means that objects on the opposite side can be seen through the sample but appear cloudy or distorted. An opaque state of the sample means that objects on the opposite side cannot be seen through the sample.

[0032] Referring to Table 1, when a target material consists essentially of only a matrix material, the matrix material may be crystalline or amorphous. Depending on the crystalline or amorphous nature of the matrix material, the transparent / opaque state of the target material when it is heated to a temperature above the liquid state and assumes a liquid phase, and the transparent / opaque state of the target material when it assumes a solid phase, differ. In other words, the transparent / opaque state of the target material differs depending on the phase of the target material, whether it is a liquid or solid phase.

[0033] [Table 1]

[0034] Referring to Table 2, the additive may be a colorant such as a pigment or dye. The colorant may be, for example, carbon black. The additive may be a reinforcing material that does not melt at the melting temperature of the base material, such as talc, lime, or glass. The target material may also be a reinforcing material that melts at the melting temperature of the base material, such as vinylon. The target material may also be a polymer alloy that melts at the melting temperature of the base material. For example, the target material may be high impact polystyrene (HIPS), which is a compound of polystyrene and rubber, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), which is made up of three types of monomers, or block polypropylene (block PP), which is made up of propylene and ethylene.

[0035] For these target materials, the transparent / opaque state when the target material is in a liquid phase and the transparent / opaque state when the target material is in a solid phase differ depending on the additives added. In other words, the transparent / opaque state of the target material differs depending on the phase of the target material.

[0036] [Table 2]

[0037] None of the target materials (resin materials) described above can avoid deterioration due to oxidation. When the resin material in a plastic product deteriorates due to oxidation, the appearance of the plastic product deteriorates and the strength of the plastic product decreases. More specifically, the plastic product turns yellowish and becomes more susceptible to breakage. For this reason, it is necessary to measure the degree of deterioration due to oxidation (degree of oxidative deterioration) of the resin material (target material) used in the recycling method.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 2, the degree of oxidative degradation of a target material can be measured, for example, by a chemiluminescence measurement method (chemiluminescence method) using a target sample 52, which is a specimen made from the target material.

[0039] Specifically, as the target material deteriorates due to oxidation, the peroxides 53 inside the target material (target sample 52) increase. When the target sample 52 is heated by the heating unit 56, the peroxides 53 emit weak light WL in various directions that is imperceptible to the human eye. In particular, the light WL emitted upward by the peroxides 53 can be detected by a photodetector 57 disposed above the target sample 52. The total number of light emissions (amount of chemiluminescence) detected by the photodetector 57 within a predetermined time period (e.g., 30 minutes) is counted, and the amount of chemiluminescence per gram of the target sample 52 is calculated, thereby measuring the degree of oxidative deterioration of the target sample 52. More specifically, the greater the amount of chemiluminescence per gram, the more advanced the deterioration due to oxidation.

[0040] Measurement of the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxides by the above-mentioned chemiluminescence measurement method (hereinafter also referred to simply as "measurement of the amount of chemiluminescence by the chemiluminescence method") is usually performed by placing the target sample 52 in an inert gas atmosphere such as nitrogen gas and heating it. By measuring the amount of chemiluminescence by the chemiluminescence method, the degree of oxidative degradation of the target sample 52 can be measured with high accuracy.

[0041] However, to measure the amount of chemiluminescence with high accuracy using the chemiluminescence method, it is necessary for the light WL emitted by the peroxide 53 to reliably reach the light receiver 57. For example, if the target sample 52 is thick, it takes time for the peroxide 53 in the upper layer to heat up and emit the light WL. Furthermore, if the target sample 52 is opaque, the light receiver 57 cannot detect the light WL emitted by the peroxide 53 in the lower layer of the target sample 52. As a result, the amount of chemiluminescence may not be measured accurately. If the target sample 52 is translucent, the light receiver 57 may also not accurately detect the light WL emitted by the peroxide 53 in the lower layer of the target sample 52. As a result, the amount of chemiluminescence may not be measured accurately.

[0042] As can be understood from the above explanation, in order to measure the amount of chemiluminescence by the chemiluminescence method with high accuracy, each of the target samples 52 must have morphological conditions (hereinafter referred to as "morphological conditions") suitable for measurement, such as phase, transparency / opacity, and weight. Furthermore, when comparing the degree of oxidative degradation of multiple levels of target samples 52 with high accuracy, the target samples 52 must have the same morphological conditions.

[0043] More specifically, referring to Tables 1 and 2, when comparing the degree of oxidative degradation of multiple levels of target samples 52, it is preferable to make the phases of the target samples 52 uniform. That is, all of the target samples 52 may be solid or all of the target samples 52 may be liquid. In this case, the morphology condition is the phase. Furthermore, when all of the target samples 52 are solid, it is preferable to make the transparent / opaque state of the target samples 52 uniform. In this case, the morphology conditions are the phase and the transparent / opaque state.

[0044] Specifically, the basic morphological conditions in the restoration method of this embodiment are the following first to fourth morphological conditions. The first morphological condition is a condition that the material is a transparent solid, the second morphological condition is a condition that the material is an opaque solid, the third morphological condition is a condition that the material is a translucent solid, and the fourth morphological condition is a condition that the material is a liquid. However, the morphological conditions in the present invention are not limited to these four morphological conditions, and may be any conditions that are suitable for measuring the degree of oxidative degradation. For example, the fourth morphological condition may be divided into a fifth morphological condition that the material is a transparent liquid, a sixth morphological condition that the material is an opaque liquid, and a seventh morphological condition that the material is a translucent liquid, as necessary.

[0045] For example, when multiple levels of target samples 52 all meet the first morphological condition, the degree of oxidative degradation of the multiple levels of target samples 52 can be compared with high precision based on the amount of chemiluminescence per weight. In this case, the weights of the multiple levels of target samples 52 may be different from each other. Furthermore, when multiple levels of target samples 52 all meet the second or third morphological condition, the degree of oxidative degradation of the multiple levels of target samples 52 can be compared with high precision based on the amount of chemiluminescence per area of ​​the portion facing the photodetector 57. In this case, the total area of ​​the portion of the multiple levels of target samples 52 facing the photodetector 57 may be different from each other.

[0046] However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, if the target material is transparent in its solid phase, it is more preferable to make the weights of the target samples 52 uniform. In this case, the morphology conditions are the phase, transparent / opaque state, and weight. If the target material is opaque in its solid phase, it is more preferable to make the total area of ​​the target samples 52 facing the light receiver 57 uniform. For example, a thin sheet-like target sample 52 may be prepared, or a finely pulverized target sample 52 may be prepared. In this case, the morphology conditions are the phase, transparent / opaque state, and total area facing the light receiver 57. If the target material is translucent in its solid phase, it is more preferable to make the weights of the target samples 52 uniform, or to make the total area of ​​the target samples 52 facing the light receiver 57 uniform. In this case, the morphology conditions are the phase, transparent / opaque state, and weight, or the phase, transparent / opaque state, and total area facing the light receiver 57.

[0047] Alternatively, if the target material is opaque in the solid phase but transparent in the liquid phase, a molten (liquid) target sample 52 may be prepared. In this case, the morphological conditions are phase and transparent / opaque state.

[0048] The specific shape of the target sample 52 is not particularly limited as long as the target sample 52 meets the required morphological requirements. For example, the target sample 52 may be a pellet, a pulverized material, granules, powder, film, sheet, molded body, or liquid. However, when comparing the degree of oxidative degradation of multiple levels of target samples 52, uniforming the shape of the target samples 52 can uniformize the total area of ​​the target samples 52 facing the photodetector 57 and the thermal conductivity of the target samples 52. This can improve the accuracy of the measurement. For example, target samples 52 with varying sizes, such as pulverized materials, are preferably sieved to uniform size before use in the measurement. On the other hand, samples with uniform shapes, such as pellets, films, granules, and powders, can be used in the measurement without sieving.

[0049] The measurement of the amount of chemiluminescence using the chemiluminescence method described above is suitable for measuring the degree of oxidative degradation of a target material. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of measuring the amount of chemiluminescence using the chemiluminescence method, the oxidation induction time (OIT) may be measured using the chemiluminescence method. For example, if the target sample 52 is heated to a certain temperature in an inert gas atmosphere and then switched to oxygen flow, the target sample 52 will stably emit light WL for a predetermined time and then suddenly emit light WL. This predetermined time can be used as the oxidation induction time. The shorter the oxidation induction time, the more advanced the deterioration due to oxidation.

[0050] The oxidation induction time may be measured by the chemiluminescence method described above, or by other common measurement methods. For example, the oxidation induction time may be measured by a thermal analysis method such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) or thermogravimetric / differential thermal analysis (TG / DTA), or an oxygen absorption measurement method. Whether measuring the oxidation induction time or a measurement other than the chemiluminescence amount or oxidation induction time, in order to compare the degree of oxidative degradation of multiple levels of the target sample 52 with high accuracy, the target sample 52 must have a morphology that corresponds to the measurement method. For example, the target sample 52 may have any of the first to fourth morphology conditions described above.

[0051] As described above, when a target material deteriorates due to oxidation, the appearance of the target material deteriorates and the strength of the target material decreases.

[0052] The appearance of the target material is expressed as, for example, b in the CIELAB color space. * It can be evaluated by optically measuring the value of b * The change in the value of the color difference Δb * The larger the color difference Δb, the more the appearance of the target material is evaluated to be deteriorated. * can be measured using a common color difference meter.

[0053] The appearance of the target material is determined by the color difference Δb * The appearance of a material can be evaluated by a variety of methods, including but not limited to measuring the transmittance and reflectance of the material. For example, the appearance of a material can be evaluated by measuring the transmittance and reflectance of the material when light is irradiated onto it. Transmittance and reflectance can be measured using a general transmittance measuring instrument or reflectance measuring instrument.

[0054] The strength of a target material can be evaluated with high precision by, for example, mechanically measuring its Charpy impact strength. For example, a rectangular prism-shaped test piece with a notch formed therein is prepared using the target material. The prepared test piece is then subjected to a high-speed impact to destroy it. The strength of the target material can be evaluated by calculating the energy required to destroy the test piece relative to its cross-sectional area (Charpy impact strength). More specifically, the smaller the Charpy impact strength, the more the strength of the target material can be evaluated to be degraded.

[0055] The strength of the target material can be evaluated by various common methods, not limited to the measurement of the Charpy impact strength described above. For example, the strength of the target material can be evaluated by the tensile strength, tensile yield strength, tensile breaking strength, tensile breaking elongation, or Young's modulus measured by a tensile test. The strength of the target material can also be evaluated by the flexural modulus or flexural strength measured by a bending test. The strength of the target material can also be evaluated by the Izod impact strength measured by an impact test.

[0056] 9 to 15, there is a strong correlation between the index value, which is a measurement value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the target material, and the characteristic value, which is a measurement value indicating the strength or appearance of the target material. According to the recycling method of this embodiment (see FIG. 1), this correlation can be used to derive the mixing ratio (weight ratio) between virgin material and recycled material in the recycled material.

[0057] The playback method of this embodiment (see FIG. 1) will be described below.

[0058] Referring to Figure 1, the recycling method of this embodiment includes a pre-process (STEP 1), a correlation deriving process (STEP 2), a preparation process (STEP 3), a mixing ratio deriving process (STEP 4), and a recycled material preparation process (STEP 5). These processes (STEPs 1 to 5) are performed in the order of STEPs 1 to 5. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the recycling method can be modified in various ways as needed. For example, the recycling method may further include other processes in addition to the above-mentioned processes.

[0059] The pre-processing steps of this embodiment will be described below.

[0060] In the pre-processing step of this embodiment, three or more levels of resin material samples are prepared. The samples are used to measure the degree of oxidative degradation of the resin material. The prepared samples are made of the same resin material. Specifically, the samples consist of only a base material made of the same resin material, or a base material made of the same resin material and the same additives that are blended in the same manner with the base material. However, the samples have different levels of oxidative degradation. These various levels of samples can be prepared, for example, by repeatedly performing a process of heat-treating virgin material to cause degradation.

[0061] The samples must have the same morphological conditions suitable for measuring the degree of oxidative degradation. The basic morphological conditions in this embodiment are, as described above, the first morphological condition of a transparent solid, the second morphological condition of an opaque solid, the third morphological condition of a translucent solid, or the fourth morphological condition of a liquid. Meanwhile, the shape and quantity of the samples are not particularly limited. For example, each sample may contain multiple pellets of the same shape. Furthermore, the samples may be pulverized materials sieved through sieves with the same mesh, similar granules or powders, films or sheets of the same shape, a single molded product of the same shape, or a liquid. For example, the sample may be a mixture of multiple pellets and a pulverized material.

[0062] According to this embodiment, in addition to the sample, test pieces (not shown) are prepared from the same resin material as the three or more levels of samples in a pre-process. The test pieces are used to measure the strength and appearance of the resin material. The shape of the test pieces is not particularly limited as long as the strength and appearance can be measured. For example, the test piece for measuring Charpy impact strength may have a rectangular column shape with a notch formed therein.

[0063] As will be described later, the degree of oxidative degradation measured using a sample (index value) and the strength and appearance measured using a test piece (characteristic values) are used to derive a correlation with the index value on the X axis and the characteristic value on the Y axis. Such a correlation can be easily derived, for example, by using the least squares method. For this reason, it is necessary to prepare at least three levels of samples and test pieces in the pre-processing step.

[0064] From the viewpoint of accurately deriving the correlation, it is preferable that the three levels of samples include a sample made from virgin material. In addition, the degree of oxidative degradation of the virgin material is also used in the blend ratio derivation process described below. Therefore, from the viewpoint of reducing the number of measurements, it is preferable that the three levels of samples include a sample made from virgin material. Furthermore, it is preferable that the three levels of samples include a sample made from recycled material that has undergone considerable oxidative degradation.

[0065] To summarize the above explanation, the recycling method of this embodiment includes a pre-processing step of preparing three or more levels of samples of resin material, in which the samples have different degrees of oxidation deterioration, but the samples have the same morphological conditions suitable for measuring the degree of oxidation deterioration.

[0066] The correlation deriving step of this embodiment will be described below.

[0067] In the correlation deriving step of this embodiment, an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the sample and a characteristic value indicating the strength or appearance of a test piece made of the same resin material as the sample are measured.

[0068] The index value in this embodiment is the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide or the oxidation induction time, but is not particularly limited as long as it is a value that indicates the degree of oxidative deterioration of the sample.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 3, the amount of chemiluminescence can be measured, for example, using a chemiluminescence measuring device 30. FIG. 3 schematically shows a portion of a chemiluminescence imaging device (CLA-IMG) manufactured by Tohoku Electronics Industries Co., Ltd. The chemiluminescence measuring device 30 is provided with a sealable sample chamber 50. Four petri dishes 54 can be placed inside the sample chamber 50. Each of the petri dishes 54 contains one level of sample consisting of multiple pellets. A heating unit 56 is provided below the sample chamber 50, and a photodetector 58 equipped with a CCD camera is provided above the sample chamber 50.

[0070] The chemiluminescence measuring device 30 shown in Figure 3 can simultaneously measure the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide in four levels of samples. However, it is difficult to perform measurements with high accuracy using a CCD camera, as in the chemiluminescence measuring device 30. From the perspective of performing measurements with higher accuracy, the chemiluminescence measuring device 30A shown in Figure 4 may be used instead of the chemiluminescence measuring device 30 shown in Figure 3.

[0071] 4, the chemiluminescence measuring device 30A is equipped with a photodetector 58A, which is a photomultiplier tube 58A. By using the photomultiplier tube 58A instead of a CCD camera, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide in the sample can be measured with high accuracy, level by level.

[0072] 3 and 4, the oxidation induction time can be measured by the chemiluminescence method using, for example, a chemiluminescence measuring apparatus 30 or a chemiluminescence measuring apparatus 30A. The oxidation induction time can also be measured by a thermal analysis method such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) or thermogravimetric / differential thermal analysis (TG / DTA) or an oxygen absorption measurement method.

[0073] The characteristic values ​​in this embodiment are mechanical characteristic values ​​or optical characteristic values, but are not particularly limited as long as they are values ​​that indicate the strength or appearance of the test piece.

[0074] The mechanical property values ​​of the test specimen may be measured values ​​such as Charpy impact strength, tensile strength, tensile yield strength, tensile breaking strength, tensile breaking elongation, Young's modulus, flexural modulus, flexural strength, Izod impact strength, etc. The optical property values ​​of the test specimen may be measured values ​​such as color difference Δb * , transmittance, reflectance, etc.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 1, according to the correlation deriving step of this embodiment, the correlation between the index value and characteristic value measured as described above is derived. For example, the index value is used as the value on the X-axis, and the characteristic value is used as the value on the Y-axis. From the index value and characteristic value plotted in this manner, a predetermined function y=f(x) (x is the index value, y is the characteristic value) is derived. The predetermined function is a function that indicates the correlation between the index value and the characteristic value. That is, according to this embodiment, the correlation between the index value and the characteristic value is derived as a predetermined function. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the derived correlation may be an XY diagram drawn on paper.

[0076] The predetermined function is not particularly limited as long as it is a function that basically changes monotonically, even if y temporarily maintains a constant value as x changes. For example, the predetermined function may be a function in which y monotonically increases as x increases, or a function in which y monotonically decreases as x increases. For example, the predetermined function may be a function in which y monotonically increases after maintaining a constant value as x increases, or a function in which y monotonically decreases after maintaining a constant value as x increases. For example, the predetermined function may be a linear function, a part of a quadratic function, or an exponential function. However, a linear function is preferred from the viewpoints that it can be easily derived using the least squares method and is easy to use in the mixing ratio derivation process described below.

[0077] According to this embodiment, the index value is used as the value on the X-axis, and the characteristic value is used as the value on the Y-axis. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the characteristic value may be used as the value on the X-axis, and the index value may be used as the value on the Y-axis. However, this embodiment is preferred from the viewpoint of ease of use in the mixing ratio derivation process described later.

[0078] To summarize the above explanation, the recycling method of this embodiment includes a correlation derivation process that derives a correlation between an index value indicating the degree of oxidative deterioration of the sample and a characteristic value indicating the strength or appearance of a test piece formed from the same resin material as the sample.

[0079] The preparation steps of this embodiment will be described below.

[0080] In the preparation step of this embodiment, recycled material to be used in manufacturing the regenerated material is prepared, and a recycled sample is produced from the prepared recycled material, which is a sample having the same morphological conditions as the sample prepared in the previous step. As described above, the basic morphological conditions in this embodiment are the first morphological condition of being a transparent solid, the second morphological condition of being an opaque solid, the third morphological condition of being a translucent solid, or the fourth morphological condition of being a liquid.

[0081] For example, the recycled sample may be pellets of the same shape and the same quantity as the sample prepared in the previous process, or a pulverized material sieved through a sieve with the same mesh as the sample prepared in the previous process, or granules or powder similar to the sample prepared in the previous process, or a film or sheet of the same shape as the sample prepared in the previous process, or a molded body of the same shape as the sample prepared in the previous process, or a liquid similar to the sample prepared in the previous process.

[0082] To summarize the above explanation, the recycling method of this embodiment includes a preparation step of preparing a recycled sample, which is a sample of recycled material, and the recycled sample has the same morphological conditions as the sample.

[0083] The mixing ratio deriving process of this embodiment will be described below.

[0084] In the mixing ratio deriving step of this embodiment, an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the prepared recycled sample is measured.

[0085] As described above, the index value in this embodiment is the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide or the oxidation induction time, but the index value for the recycled sample is not particularly limited as long as it is the same as the index value for the sample prepared in the previous step.

[0086] 3 and 4, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxides and the oxidation induction time by the chemiluminescence method can be measured using the chemiluminescence measurement device 30 or the chemiluminescence measurement device 30A, just like the sample prepared in the previous step. Furthermore, the oxidation induction time can also be measured by thermal analysis such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) or thermogravimetric / differential thermal analysis (TG / DTA) or by an oxygen absorption measurement method, just like the sample prepared in the previous step.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 1, according to the blending ratio derivation process of this embodiment, the blending ratio between virgin material and recycled material required to obtain a recycled material having the desired characteristic values ​​is derived using the index values ​​of the recycled sample measured as described above, the desired characteristic values ​​that the recycled material to be produced should have, and the predetermined function y=f(x) described above.

[0088] In detail, the coefficient of determination R 2 The closer to 1, the more accurately the relationship between the index value and the characteristic value is evaluated. For example, R 2 If f is 0.5 or more, it can be evaluated that the predetermined function represents the relationship between the index value and the characteristic value sufficiently accurately. In this case, if the desired characteristic value is DV, the index value for obtaining the desired characteristic value is f -1 (DV). If the index value of the recycled sample made from recycled material is RV and the index value of the sample made from virgin material is VV, the mixing ratio a of recycled material to the total weight of recycled material (where 0 <a<1)は、RV×a+VV×(1-a)=f-1 (DV) can approximate it. The mixing ratio a can be calculated from this equation.

[0089] Summarizing the above description, the reproduction method of the present embodiment includes a mixing ratio derivation step of deriving the mixing ratio between the virgin material and the recycled material for obtaining a recycled material-containing resin having a desired characteristic value based on the correlation relationship from the index value of the recycled material.

[0090] Hereinafter, the recycled material production process of the present embodiment will be described.

[0091] In the recycled material production process of the present embodiment, a recycled material is produced using the mixing ratio (a: where 0 < a < 1) derived in the mixing ratio derivation step. For example, first, the total weight TW of the recycled material to be produced is determined. Next, a solid virgin material of total weight TW×(1 - a) and a solid recycled material of total weight TW×a are mixed to prepare a mixture. Next, the mixture is melted by heating and uniformly mixed to thereby prepare a liquid mixture. Next, the liquid mixture is put into a mold and cooled, thereby producing a recycled material having a desired shape (for example, in the form of pellets). Using the recycled material produced in this way, various plastic products can be manufactured.

[0092] The above-described recycled material production process can be variously modified as necessary. For example, the step of melting the mixture by heating and uniformly mixing it may be performed as necessary.

[0093] As understood from the above description, according to the present embodiment, by previously deriving the correlation relationship between the degree of oxidative degradation of the sample and the characteristic values such as the strength of the test piece formed from the sample, the mixing ratio of the recycled material can be mechanically derived. Specifically, from the index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the recycled material, the mixing ratio between the virgin material and the recycled material for obtaining a recycled material having a desired characteristic value based on the previously derived correlation relationship can be pinpointed. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a reproduction method capable of manufacturing a recycled material mixed with a recycled material having an appropriate mixing ratio without relying on experience.

[0094] In order to know the strength of a manufactured recycled material, it is usually necessary to prepare a test piece and measure the strength. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, the strength of the recycled material can be estimated without preparing a test piece before manufacturing the recycled material.

[0095] As described above, in the correlation deriving step of this embodiment, the sample is heated to measure the index value, and in the mixing ratio deriving step of this embodiment, the recycled sample is heated to measure the index value. If the sample or recycled sample undergoes thermal decomposition during the index value measurement, the sample or recycled sample may be lost, potentially resulting in inaccurate measurements. Furthermore, pyrolysis gases generated from the sample or recycled sample may adhere to the glass window (not shown) located between the sample or recycled sample and the photodetector 57 (see FIG. 2). In this case, the window may become cloudy, which may reduce the transmittance of the light WL emitted by the sample or recycled sample, potentially resulting in inaccurate measurements.

[0096] Therefore, it is preferable to heat the sample or recycled sample only to the extent that the sample or recycled sample is hardly thermally decomposed. More specifically, when the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence, the temperature reached when measuring the amount of chemiluminescence is preferably equal to or lower than the temperature at which the thermal weight loss of the sample or recycled sample in thermogravimetric analysis under nitrogen flow is 1% or less. Similarly, when the index value is the oxidation induction time, the holding temperature when measuring the oxidation induction time is preferably equal to or lower than the temperature at which the thermal weight loss of the sample or recycled sample in thermogravimetric analysis under nitrogen flow is 1% or less.

[0097] The peroxide 53 in the specimen or recycled sample decreases over time after the specimen or recycled sample is prepared. As a result, the measured values ​​of the index values ​​change relatively significantly over time. On the other hand, the measured values ​​of the characteristic values ​​do not change significantly over time. Therefore, there is a risk that the accuracy of the measured values ​​will decrease due to changes over time. To prevent a decrease in the accuracy of the measured values ​​due to changes over time, it is preferable to align the time between the preparation of the specimen or recycled sample and its use in measurement.

[0098] More specifically, when the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence or the oxidation induction time, it is preferable that the date on which the index value is measured (the index value measurement date) and the date on which the characteristic value is measured (the characteristic value measurement date) for each sample or recycled sample are close to each other. More specifically, the period between the index value measurement date and the characteristic value measurement date is preferably within one year, and more preferably within one month.

[0099] As described above, according to this embodiment, the samples prepared in the pre-processing step must have the same morphological conditions as the sample prepared in the pre-processing step. In addition, the recycled sample prepared in the pre-processing step must have the same morphological conditions as the sample prepared in the pre-processing step. As described above, the basic morphological conditions of this embodiment are the phase and transparent / opaque state of the sample and recycled sample. More specifically, the basic morphological conditions of this embodiment are the first morphological condition of being a transparent solid, the second morphological condition of being an opaque solid, the third morphological condition of being a translucent solid, or the fourth morphological condition of being a liquid. In other words, when the sample and recycled sample are both solids with the same transparent / opaque state, or when the sample and recycled sample are both liquids, the sample and recycled sample have the same morphological conditions as each other.

[0100] The configuration conditions of this embodiment will be explained in more detail below.

[0101] When measuring the amount of chemiluminescence of a sample or a recycled sample by the Chemiluminescence method, both the sample and the recycled sample may be transparent solids or opaque solids. That is, when the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence, both the sample and the recycled sample may be transparent solids. Also, when the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence, both the sample and the recycled sample may be opaque solids.

[0102] When the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence and the first morphological condition is met, that is, the sample and the recycled sample are both transparent solids, the amount of chemiluminescence per weight can be used as the index value. That is, the index value can be calculated by dividing the amount of chemiluminescence measured for the sample or recycled sample by the weight of the sample or recycled sample being measured. When the third morphological condition is met, that is, the sample and the recycled sample are both translucent solids, the amount of chemiluminescence per weight can also be used as the index value.

[0103] When the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence and the second morphological condition is met that both the sample and the recycled sample are opaque solids, the amount of chemiluminescence per area of ​​the sample or recycled sample facing the receiver 57 (see FIG. 2) can be used as the index value. That is, the index value can be calculated by dividing the amount of chemiluminescence measured for the sample or recycled sample by the total area of ​​the sample or recycled sample being measured that faces the receiver 57. When the third morphological condition is met that both the sample and the recycled sample are translucent solids, the amount of chemiluminescence per area of ​​the sample or recycled sample facing the receiver 57 can also be used as the index value.

[0104] When measuring the chemiluminescence amount of a transparent solid sample and a transparent solid recycled sample using the Chemiluminescence method, it is more preferable that the sample and recycled sample have the same weight. In this case, the index value is the chemiluminescence amount, and the morphology conditions are the phase, transparent / opaque state, and weight. By making the weight of the sample and recycled sample the same in addition to the phase and transparent / opaque state, the chemiluminescence amount can be measured with higher accuracy.

[0105] However, it is difficult to make the weights of the sample and recycled samples completely uniform. Therefore, the sample and recycled samples may have similar weights. More specifically, the weights of the sample and recycled samples may be uniform within a range that allows for sufficiently accurate measurements. For example, the weights of the sample and recycled samples may be uniform within a range of ±10%. By narrowing the range of difference in weight of the sample and recycled samples beyond ±10%, even more accurate measurements are possible. Furthermore, regardless of whether the sample and recycled samples have similar weights, the amount of chemiluminescence per weight may be used as the index value.

[0106] For example, if the sample or recycled sample consists of a certain number of transparent pellets of the same shape, the sample or recycled sample will have the same weight, and the total area of ​​the sample or recycled sample facing the photodetector 57 (see FIG. 2) will be the same. That is, the sample or recycled sample in this case has multiple identical morphological conditions, which allows the amount of chemiluminescence to be measured with high accuracy.

[0107] For example, if the sample consists of a certain number of transparent pellets of the same shape, and the recycled sample is a transparent pulverized material, the weight of the recycled sample can be adjusted to match the weight of the sample. In this case, the sample and the recycled sample have the same morphological conditions in multiple ways, allowing the amount of chemiluminescence to be measured with high accuracy.

[0108] For example, if the sample or recycled sample is a transparent pulverized material, the weight of the recycled sample can be adjusted to the weight of the sample. Furthermore, if the sample or recycled sample is a transparent pulverized material, the sample and recycled sample may be sieved through sieves with the same mesh size, if necessary. In this case, the sample and recycled sample have the same morphological conditions in multiple locations, allowing the amount of chemiluminescence to be measured with high accuracy.

[0109] When measuring the amount of chemiluminescence using the Chemiluminescence method for an opaque solid sample and an opaque solid recycled sample, it is more preferable that the total area of ​​the sample and recycled sample facing the photodetector 57 (see Figure 2) be the same. In this case, the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence, and the morphology condition is the total area in addition to the phase and transparent / opaque state. By making the total area, as well as the phase and transparent / opaque state, of the sample and recycled sample the same, the amount of chemiluminescence can be measured with higher accuracy.

[0110] As long as the sample and recycled samples have the same total area, the sample and recycled samples may have the same or different weights. In either case, the sample and recycled samples can have the same morphological conditions multiple times, allowing for highly accurate measurement of chemiluminescence.

[0111] However, achieving a perfect uniformity in the total area of ​​sample or recycled samples is even more difficult than achieving a perfect uniformity in weight. Therefore, sample or recycled samples may have similar total areas. More specifically, the total areas of sample or recycled samples may be uniform within a range that allows for sufficiently accurate measurements. For example, the total areas of sample or recycled samples may be uniform within a ±10% difference range. By narrowing the range of difference in the total areas of sample or recycled samples beyond ±10%, even more accurate measurements are possible. Furthermore, regardless of whether sample or recycled samples have similar total areas, the amount of chemiluminescence per total area can be used as the index value.

[0112] When the sample or recycled sample is in the form of pellets or pulverized material, even measuring the total area is difficult. On the other hand, when the sample or recycled sample is in the form of pellets or pulverized material, the total area can be made uniform by making the weight uniform. Therefore, when the sample or recycled sample is in the form of pellets or pulverized material, the sample or recycled sample may have similar weights. More specifically, instead of measuring the total area of ​​the sample or recycled sample, the weight of the sample or recycled sample may be made uniform within a range of ±10%. In this case, the amount of chemiluminescence per weight can be used as the index value.

[0113] For example, if the sample is made of opaque pulverized material and the recycled sample is made of opaque pulverized material, the sample and the recycled sample may be pulverized materials sieved with sieves of the same mesh size. In other words, if the sample and the recycled sample are opaque pulverized materials, the sample and the recycled sample may be sieved with sieves of the same mesh size. In this case, the weights of the sample and the recycled sample may be made uniform within a ±10% difference range, and the amount of chemiluminescence per weight may be used as the index value.

[0114] When measuring the oxidation induction time of a sample and a recycled sample by the chemiluminescence method, the sample and recycled sample must have the same morphological conditions as when measuring the amount of chemiluminescence by the chemiluminescence method.

[0115] For example, when measuring the oxidation induction time by the Chemiluminescence method on a transparent solid sample and a solid recycled sample, the sample and recycled sample may have the same weight. In this case, the indicator value is the oxidation induction time, and the morphology condition is the weight in addition to the phase and transparent / opaque state.

[0116] However, since it takes a long time to measure the oxidation induction time of a solid sample or a solid recycled sample, in order to shorten the measurement time, when the indicator value is the oxidation induction time, it is preferable that the sample or recycled sample is a liquid, in other words, the morphology condition is preferably a molten phase.

[0117] In addition to the various modifications already described, the regeneration method of this embodiment can be further modified in various ways. For example, in the correlation deriving step of this embodiment, the index values ​​and characteristic values ​​of the sample are measured. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the index values ​​and characteristic values ​​of a sample made from virgin material may be presented when purchasing the virgin material. Furthermore, the index values ​​and characteristic values ​​of the sample may have been measured in the past. In such cases, it is not necessary to measure the index values ​​and characteristic values ​​of the sample again.

[0118] As described above, in the recycling method of this embodiment (see FIG. 1), the recycled material used to produce the recycled-material-containing resin may contain both pre-consumer recycled material and consumer recycled material. In other words, the recycled material may be a mixture of pre-consumer recycled material and consumer recycled material. Of course, the recycled material may be a mixture of two or more types of pre-consumer recycled material, or a mixture of two or more types of consumer recycled material.

[0119] Furthermore, the characteristic values ​​in the above-described embodiments are values ​​indicating the strength or appearance of the test piece. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the characteristic values ​​may be values ​​indicating the processing characteristics when manufacturing the recycled material-containing resin. In other words, the characteristic values ​​may be values ​​indicating the processing characteristics when molding and processing the resin material. That is, the recycling method of the present invention (see FIG. 1) may include a correlation derivation step of deriving a correlation between an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the sample and a characteristic value indicating the processing characteristics when molding and processing the same resin material as the sample.

[0120] More specifically, when molding a resin material, a solid resin material is generally melted to produce a liquid resin material (molten resin), and then the molten resin is poured into a mold and solidified. The processing characteristics when molding a resin material may be, for example, the viscosity of the molten resin when it is moved at a constant speed, the rheological properties (fluid properties), or the thermal properties during the melting and solidifying processes. That is, the characteristic values ​​may be values ​​that indicate the viscosity, rheological properties, or thermal properties during the melting and solidifying processes of the resin material. Even when such values ​​are used as characteristic values, the various morphological conditions and index values ​​already described can be used.

[0121] When rheological properties are used as processing characteristics, various measured values ​​such as the complex viscosity of the molten resin, storage modulus, loss modulus, loss tangent, stress, strain, elastic modulus, yield stress modulus, yield value, relaxation time, relaxation modulus, creep characteristics, zero shear viscosity, melt mass-flow rate (MFR), and melt volume-flow rate (MVR) can be used as characteristic values.

[0122] When thermal properties during the melting and solidification processes are used as processing characteristics, various measured values ​​can be used, such as enthalpy-temperature curves obtained from measurements using a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), linear expansion-temperature curves obtained from measurements using thermomechanical analysis (TMA), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) curves.

[0123] The processing characteristics may be measured using the resin material from which the sample for measuring the index value was prepared (i.e., the same resin material as the sample). For example, pellet-shaped resin material may be melted and a disk-shaped member (disk member) may be formed using a mold. The complex viscosity may be measured using this disk member with a viscometer such as a rotational rheometer. However, the method for measuring the processing characteristics is not particularly limited. For example, the disk member may be formed as needed. For example, the pellet-shaped resin material may be heated in a viscometer to melt it and measure the complex viscosity.

[0124] 5, in carrying out the reproducing method of this embodiment, a reproducing support device 10 may be used. The reproducing support device 10 of this embodiment will be described below.

[0125] The recycling support device 10 of this embodiment is a device that supports the recycling of resin materials from virgin materials and recycled materials including at least one of pre-consumer recycled materials and consumer recycled materials. The recycling support device 10 of this embodiment includes a chemiluminescence measurement device 30B and a control device 20. The control device 20 is, for example, a PC (personal computer).

[0126] The chemiluminescence measuring device 30B is, for example, a device obtained by adding an interface unit 38 for communicating with the control device 20 to the chemiluminescence measuring device 30 shown in FIG. 3. In addition to the interface unit 38, the chemiluminescence measuring device 30B also includes an imaging unit 32 and a measuring unit 34. The imaging unit 32 can detect light WL (see FIG. 2) derived from peroxides emitted by a resin material sample or a recycled material sample (recycled sample). The measuring unit 34 can simultaneously measure the chemiluminescence intensity of four levels of samples based on the light WL detected by the imaging unit 32. That is, the chemiluminescence measuring device 30B can measure an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of a resin material sample and can also measure an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of a recycled material. The interface unit 38 transmits the index value (measured value) of the measured sample or recycled material to the control device 20 in response to a request from the control device 20.

[0127] The regeneration support device 10 of this embodiment has the structure described above. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the structure of the regeneration support device 10 can be modified in various ways. For example, the chemiluminescence measurement device 30B may be a device in which an interface unit 38 is provided in the chemiluminescence measurement device 30A shown in FIG. 4, instead of the chemiluminescence measurement device 30 shown in FIG. 3. In other words, the chemiluminescence measurement device 30B may be a device that can measure only one level of sample in one measurement.

[0128] The control device 20 of this embodiment includes an apparatus main body 22, a storage device 24, an input device 26, and a display device 28, and is communicably connected to a chemiluminescence measuring apparatus 30B.

[0129] The device main body 22 is the main body of the PC and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit: not shown) and a main memory (not shown). The memory 24 is, for example, a solid-state drive and can store various files (not shown) including executable program files. The memory 24 acquires and stores files according to instructions from the device main body 22. The CPU of the device main body 22 acquires executable files stored in the memory device 24, loads them into the main memory, and executes the commands in the executable files to realize various functions. The input device 26 is, for example, a keyboard or a mouse, and transmits characters entered from the keyboard and positions and ranges indicated by the mouse to the device main body 22. The display device 28 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays characters, images, etc. transmitted from the device main body 22.

[0130] The device main body 22 of this embodiment is capable of executing a control process 202, which is a program, a correlation derivation process 204, which is a program, and a mixing ratio derivation process 206, which is a program. For example, the device main body 22 loads the control process 202 into a main storage device (not shown) in response to an instruction input from the input device 26, and executes it using a CPU (not shown). That is, the reproducing support device 10 is equipped with programs (the control process 202, the correlation derivation process 204, and the mixing ratio derivation process 206) that cause a computer to function as the control device 20 in the reproducing support device 10. These programs are installed in the storage device 24.

[0131] As described above, these programs are actually executed by the CPU (not shown) of the device main body 22. However, in the following description, these programs may be described as if they were the subject of execution.

[0132] 6 together with FIG. 5, the control process 202 is started, for example, by operating the input device 26 of the apparatus main body 22. When the control process 202 is started, it outputs a message to the display device 28 asking whether to measure the sample or the recycled material (S610). When the operator uses the input device 26 to instruct the sample to be measured (YES in S620), the control process 202 executes the correlation derivation process 204 (S630). When the operator uses the input device 26 to instruct the recycled material to be measured (NO in S620), the control process 202 executes the mixing ratio derivation process 206 (S640).

[0133] 7 together with FIG. 5, when the correlation derivation process 204 is started, it obtains sample measurement values ​​of up to four levels (S710). More specifically, the correlation derivation process 204 requests the chemiluminescence measurement apparatus 30B to transmit the sample measurement values, and continues to wait for the transmission of the sample measurement values. When the operator measures the sample using the chemiluminescence measurement apparatus 30B, the chemiluminescence measurement apparatus 30B transmits the sample measurement values ​​to the correlation derivation process 204 ((1) in FIG. 5). When the correlation derivation process 204 receives the sample measurement values, it outputs a message to the display device 28 requesting input of sample characteristic values ​​(S720), and continues to wait for the input of the sample characteristic values ​​(NO in S730).

[0134] When the operator inputs the characteristic values ​​of the sample using the input device 26 (YES in S730), the correlation derivation process 204 derives the correlation between the acquired measurement value and the characteristic value (S740). More specifically, the correlation derivation process 204 derives the above-mentioned predetermined function y=f(x) (x is the index value, y is the characteristic value). The correlation derivation process 204 stores the derived correlation in the storage device 24.

[0135] As described above, in the correlation derivation process 204, the control device 20 of this embodiment derives a correlation between the index value of the sample received from the chemiluminescence measuring device 30B and the characteristic value of the test piece formed from the same resin material as the sample and input from the input device 26.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 8 together with FIG. 5, when the mixing ratio derivation process 206 is started, it obtains the measurement value of the recycled material (S810). More specifically, the mixing ratio derivation process 206 requests the chemiluminescence measurement device 30B to transmit the measurement value of the recycled material, and continues to wait for the transmission of the measurement value of the recycled material. When the operator measures the recycled sample using the chemiluminescence measurement device 30B, the chemiluminescence measurement device 30B transmits the measurement value of the recycled sample (i.e., the measurement value of the recycled material) to the mixing ratio derivation process 206 ((2) in FIG. 5). When the mixing ratio derivation process 206 receives the measurement value of the recycled material, it obtains the derived correlation from the storage device 24 (S820).

[0137] Next, the mixing ratio derivation process 206 outputs a message to the display device 28 requesting input of the desired characteristic value (S830) and continues to wait for the input of the desired characteristic value (NO in S840). When the operator inputs the desired characteristic value using the input device 26 (YES in S840), the mixing ratio derivation process 206 derives the mixing ratio between virgin material and recycled material to obtain recycled material having the desired characteristic value using the index value of the recycled material, the desired characteristic value, and a predetermined function y = f(x), as described above (S850). The derived mixing ratio may be stored in the storage device 24 or displayed on the display device 28.

[0138] As described above, in the mixing ratio derivation process 206, the control device 20 of this embodiment derives the mixing ratio between virgin material and recycled material to obtain a recycled material-containing resin having desired characteristic values ​​based on the correlation from the index value of the recycled material received from the chemiluminescence measurement device 30B.

[0139] As can be understood from the above explanation, the recycling support device 10 of this embodiment operates on the premise that the operator correctly performs measurements of samples and recycled samples in the scheduled order. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, measurement values ​​and correlations may be managed by assigning an identification code. The identification code may uniquely correspond to the recycled material for which the mixing ratio is to be derived. In this way, restrictions on the processing order of the correlation derivation process 204 and the mixing ratio derivation process 206 can be eliminated.

[0140] Alternatively, samples can be measured one level at a time and the measurement values ​​can be sent to the correlation derivation process 204. Alternatively, three of the four-level samples in the chemiluminescence measuring device 30B may be used as three-level samples in the correlation derivation process 204, and the remaining one may be used as a recycled sample in the mixing ratio derivation process 206. In this case, after being started, the control process 202 (see FIG. 6) may execute the correlation derivation process 204 and the mixing ratio derivation process 206 consecutively without asking the operator.

[0141] The regeneration support device 10 of this embodiment can be constructed by incorporating an interface unit 38 into a conventional chemiluminescence measuring device 30 (see FIG. 3) or a chemiluminescence measuring device 30A, and connecting the device to the control device 20 via a communication cable such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the functions of the control device 20 may be incorporated into the chemiluminescence measuring device 30 itself. [Example]

[0142] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to various examples shown in Figures 9 to 15. In each example, three or more levels of samples were prepared using a resin material (target material) from which recycled materials were produced, and correlations between the index values ​​and characteristic values ​​of the prepared samples were derived. In some examples, the blending ratio between virgin material and recycled material required to obtain recycled materials with desired characteristic values ​​was derived based on the derived correlations from the index values ​​of recycled materials of the target material. Furthermore, recycled materials were produced using the derived blending ratios, and the characteristic values ​​of the produced recycled materials were compared with the desired characteristic values ​​for evaluation.

[0143] Example 1 Referring to FIG. 9, in Example 1, general-purpose polystyrene (GPPS) was used as the target material, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide was used as the index value, and Charpy impact strength was used as the characteristic value.

[0144] The chemiluminescence intensity was measured using a common device, such as the chemiluminescence measuring device 30A shown in Figure 4. Specifically, virgin GPPS material and three levels of test materials were prepared by subjecting the virgin material to several heat treatments to oxidative degradation. Sample 1 was prepared from the virgin material, and Samples 2 to 4 were prepared from the three levels of test material. Each sample contained a certain number of cylindrical, transparent pellets. The pellet shapes were similar. That is, Samples 1 to 4 had the same phase and transparency / opacity, and similar weights. The chemiluminescence intensity (index value) of Samples 1 to 4 prepared as described above was measured. The index value (VV) of Sample 1, which was virgin material, was 801,553 counts / g.

[0145] The Charpy impact strength was measured using four test pieces 1 to 4 prepared from samples 1 to 4, respectively. Specifically, for each of samples 1 to 4, a test piece was injection molded using the same pellets as the sample. The Charpy impact strength (characteristic value) of test pieces 1 to 4 prepared as described above was measured.

[0146] The index values ​​of Samples 1 to 4 were plotted on the XY graph in FIG. 9, with the X-axis representing the values ​​and the Y-axis representing the values ​​of the characteristics of Test Specimens 1 to 4. In addition, a regression function (correlation between index values ​​and characteristic values), which is a linear function, was derived from the index values ​​of Samples 1 to 4 and the characteristic values ​​of Test Specimens 1 to 4 by the least squares method. As shown in FIG. 9, the derived linear function f(x) is expressed as y=-2×(10 -7 )x+2.4864. Also, the coefficient of determination R 2 The coefficient of determination (R) was 0.8997. 2 indicates that there is a strong correlation between the index value and the characteristic value.

[0147] Next, a first recycled material was prepared for use in producing recycled materials. The index value of the first recycled material was measured in the same manner as samples 1 to 4. Specifically, recycled sample R1 was prepared from the first recycled material. Recycled sample R1 contained a certain number of cylindrical, transparent pellets. The pellet shapes were similar to each other. That is, the phase and transparency / opacity of recycled sample R1 were the same as those of samples 1 to 4, and the weight of recycled sample R1 was the same as those of samples 1 to 4. The chemiluminescence amount (index value) of recycled sample R1 prepared as described above was measured. The index value (RV) of recycled sample R1 was 6,421,926 counts / g.

[0148] Desired characteristic value (DV) is 2kJ / m 2 The index value at which this characteristic value is obtained was calculated using the linear function described above. -1 The DV was 2,432,000 counts / g. From the index value (VV) of sample 1 and the index value (RV) of recycled sample R1, RV×a+VV×(1-a)=f -1 The value of a that satisfies (DV) was calculated. The calculated value of a was approximately 0.29.

[0149] The virgin material of the target material and the first recycled material were mixed in a mixing ratio of 7:3 to produce a recycled material. Test pieces were made from the produced recycled material. The Charpy impact strength (characteristic value) of the produced test pieces was measured. The measured characteristic value was 2.13 kJ / m2 This value was the desired characteristic value (2 kJ / m 2 This shows that the recycling method according to the embodiment described above makes it possible to produce recycled materials containing recycled materials at an appropriate mixing ratio without relying on experience.

[0150] Next, a second recycled material was prepared for use in producing recycled materials. The index value of the second recycled material was measured in the same manner as samples 1 to 4. Specifically, recycled sample R2 was prepared from the second recycled material. Recycled sample R2 was a transparent pulverized material. The phase and transparency / opaque state of recycled sample R2 were the same as those of samples 1 to 4, and the weight of recycled sample R2 was the same as those of samples 1 to 4. The chemiluminescence amount (index value) of recycled sample R2 prepared as described above was measured. The index value (RV) of recycled sample R1 was 2,840,030 counts / g.

[0151] Desired characteristic value (DV) is 2 kJ / m 2 The index value f -1 From the DV of 2,432,000 counts / g, the index value of sample 1 (VV), and the index value of recycled sample R1 (RV), RV×a+VV×(1-a)=f -1 The value of a that satisfies (DV) was calculated, and the calculated value of a was approximately 0.8.

[0152] The virgin material of the target material and the second recycled material were mixed in a mixing ratio of 2:8 to produce a recycled material. Test pieces were made from the produced recycled material. The Charpy impact strength (characteristic value) of the produced test pieces was measured. The measured characteristic value was 1.94 kJ / m 2 This value was the desired characteristic value (2 kJ / m 2) is approximately the same. This shows that when the target material is transparent in the solid phase, even if the sample used to derive the correlation and the recycled sample used to derive the blending ratio have different shapes, as long as they have the same phase and transparent / opaque state (morphological conditions), it is possible to produce a recycled material that is a mixture of recycled materials in an appropriate blending ratio. In other words, even if the sample and recycled sample are pulverized materials sieved through sieves with the same mesh specifications, similar results can be obtained as long as the morphological conditions are the same.

[0153] Example 2 Referring to FIG. 10, in Example 2, high impact polystyrene (HIPS) was used as the target material, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide was used as the index value, and Charpy impact strength was used as the characteristic value.

[0154] The chemiluminescence intensity was measured using a common device, such as the chemiluminescence measuring device 30A shown in Figure 4. Specifically, virgin HIPS material and three levels of test materials were prepared by subjecting the virgin material to several heat treatments to oxidative degradation. Sample 5 was prepared from the virgin material, and Samples 6 to 8 were prepared from the three levels of test material. Each sample contained a certain number of cylindrical opaque pellets. The pellet shapes were similar. That is, Samples 5 to 8 had the same phase and transparency / opacity, and the total area of ​​the portion facing the photodetector 58A (see Figure 4) was similar. Samples 5 to 8 also had similar weights. The chemiluminescence intensity (index value) of Samples 5 to 8 prepared as described above was measured. The index value (VV) of Sample 5, which was virgin material, was 1,842,373 counts / g.

[0155] The Charpy impact strength was measured using four test pieces 5 to 8 prepared from each of the samples 5 to 8. Specifically, for each of the samples 5 to 8, the test piece was injection molded using the same pellets as the sample. The Charpy impact strength (characteristic value) of the test pieces 5 to 8 prepared as described above was measured.

[0156] The index values ​​of specimens 5 to 8 were plotted on the XY graph in FIG. 10, with the X-axis representing the index values ​​and the Y-axis representing the characteristic values ​​of specimens 5 to 8. Furthermore, a regression function (correlation between index values ​​and characteristic values), which is a linear function, was derived from the index values ​​of specimens 5 to 8 and the characteristic values ​​of specimens 5 to 8 by the least squares method. As shown in FIG. 10, the derived linear function f(x) is expressed as y=-2×(10 -8 )x+9.2485. Also, the coefficient of determination R 2 The coefficient of determination (R) was 0.9797. 2 indicates that there is an extremely strong correlation between the index value and the characteristic value.

[0157] Next, a third recycled material was prepared for use in the production of recycled materials. The index value of the third recycled material was measured in the same manner as samples 5 to 8. Specifically, recycled sample R3 was prepared from the third recycled material. Recycled sample R3 contained a certain number of cylindrical opaque pellets. The pellet shapes were similar to each other. That is, the phase and transparency / opacity of recycled sample R3 were the same as those of samples 5 to 8, and the total area of ​​the portion of recycled sample R3 facing the photodetector 58A (see Figure 4) was the same as those of samples 5 to 8. The weight of recycled sample R3 was also the same as those of samples 5 to 8. The chemiluminescence intensity (index value) of recycled sample R3 prepared as described above was measured. The index value (RV) of recycled sample R3 was 85,139,144 counts / g.

[0158] Desired characteristic value (DV) is 8.5kJ / m 2 The index value at which this characteristic value is obtained was calculated using the linear function described above. -1 The DV was 37,425,000 counts / g. From the index value (VV) of sample 5 and the index value (RV) of recycled sample R3, RV×a+VV×(1-a)=f -1 The value of a that satisfies (DV) was calculated. The calculated value of a was approximately 0.43.

[0159] The virgin material of the target material and the third recycled material were mixed in a mixing ratio of 5.7:4.3 to produce a recycled material. Test pieces were made from the produced recycled material. The Charpy impact strength (characteristic value) of the produced test pieces was measured. The measured characteristic value was 9.23 kJ / m 2 This value was within the desired characteristic value (8.5 kJ / m 2 ) This shows that even if the target material is opaque in the solid phase, as long as the sample used to derive the correlation and the recycled sample used to derive the blending ratio have the same phase and transparent / opaque state (morphological conditions), it is possible to produce a recycled material by mixing recycled materials in an appropriate blending ratio.

[0160] Next, a fourth recycled material was prepared for use in the production of recycled materials. The index value of the fourth recycled material was measured in the same manner as samples 5 to 8. Specifically, recycled sample R4 was prepared from the fourth recycled material. Recycled sample R4 was an opaque pulverized material. The total area of ​​the portion of recycled sample R4 facing the photodetector 58A (see Figure 4) was significantly different from the total area of ​​the portion of samples 5 to 8 facing the photodetector 58A. The amount of chemiluminescence (index value) of recycled sample R4 prepared as described above was measured. The index value (RV) of recycled sample R4 was 50,638,486 counts / g.

[0161] The desired characteristic value (DV) is 8.5 kJ / m 2 The index value f -1 From the DV of 37,425,000 counts / g, the index value of sample 1 (VV), and the index value of recycled sample R4 (RV), RV×a+VV×(1-a)=f -1 The value of a that satisfies (DV) was calculated. The calculated value of a was approximately 0.73.

[0162] The virgin material of the target material and the fourth recycled material were mixed in a mixing ratio of 2.7:7.3 to produce a recycled material. Test pieces were made from the produced recycled material. The Charpy impact strength (characteristic value) of the produced test pieces was measured. The measured characteristic value was 6.14 kJ / m 2 and the desired characteristic value (8.5 kJ / m2 ) was significantly lower. This indicates that when the target material is opaque in the solid phase, even if the sample used to derive the correlation and the recycled sample used to derive the blending ratio have the same phase and transparent / opaque state (morphological conditions), it is not possible to produce a recycled material containing recycled materials in an appropriate blending ratio unless they also have the same morphological condition of having the same total area facing the photodetector 58A (see FIG. 4), or unless a measured value per area is used as the index value.

[0163] Example 3 Referring to FIG. 11, in Example 3, homopolypropylene (homoPP) was used as the target material, the oxidation induction time measured by the Chemiluminescence method was used as the index value, and the color difference Δb * was used.

[0164] The oxidation induction time was measured using a common device, such as the chemiluminescence measuring device 30A shown in Figure 4. Specifically, virgin PP material and three levels of test materials were prepared by subjecting the virgin material to several heat treatments to oxidative degradation. Sample 12 was prepared from the virgin material, and Samples 9 to 11 were prepared from the three levels of test material. Each sample contained a certain number of cylindrical, translucent pellets. The pellet shapes were similar. That is, Samples 9 to 12 had the same phase and transparency / opacity, and the total area of ​​the portion of Samples 9 to 12 facing the photodetector 58A (see Figure 4) was similar. Samples 9 to 12 also had similar weights. The oxidation induction time (index value) of Samples 9 to 12 prepared as described above was measured. The index value (VV) of Sample 12, which was virgin material, was 35 minutes.

[0165] Color difference Δb * was measured using four test pieces 9 to 12 prepared from each of the samples 9 to 12. Specifically, for each of the samples 9 to 12, the test piece was injection molded using the same pellets as the sample. The color difference Δb of the test pieces 9 to 12 prepared as described above was * (characteristic values) were measured.

[0166] The index values ​​of specimens 9 to 12 were plotted on the XY graph in FIG. 11, with the X-axis representing the index values ​​and the Y-axis representing the characteristic values ​​of specimens 9 to 12. Furthermore, a regression function (correlation between index values ​​and characteristic values), which is a linear function, was derived from the index values ​​of specimens 9 to 12 and the characteristic values ​​of specimens 9 to 12 by the least squares method. As shown in FIG. 11, the derived linear function f(x) was y = -0.1522x + 5.138. Furthermore, the coefficient of determination R 2 The coefficient of determination (R) was 0.9743. 2 indicates that there is an extremely strong correlation between the index value and the characteristic value.

[0167] Next, a fifth recycled material was prepared for use in the production of recycled materials. The index value of the fifth recycled material was measured in the same manner as samples 9 to 12. Specifically, recycled sample R5 was prepared from the fifth recycled material. Recycled sample R5 contained a certain number of cylindrical, translucent pellets. The pellet shapes were similar to each other. That is, the phase and transparency / opacity of recycled sample R5 were the same as those of samples 9 to 12, and the total area of ​​the portion of recycled sample R5 facing the photodetector 58A (see Figure 4) was the same as those of samples 9 to 12. Furthermore, the weight of recycled sample R5 was the same as those of samples 9 to 12. The oxidation induction time (index value) of recycled sample R5 prepared as described above was measured. The index value (RV) of recycled sample R5 was 10.8 minutes.

[0168] The desired characteristic value (DV) was set to 1, and the index value at which this characteristic value was obtained was calculated using the linear function described above. The calculated index value f -1 The DV was approximately 27.2 minutes. From the index value (VV) of sample 12 and the index value (RV) of recycled sample R5, RV×a+VV×(1-a)=f -1 The value of a that satisfies (DV) was calculated. The calculated value of a was approximately 0.32.

[0169] As explained above, the oxidation induction time measured by the Chemiluminescence method is used as an index value, and the color difference Δb *Even when using the above method, it is possible to derive an appropriate mixing ratio between virgin and recycled materials without relying on experience.

[0170] Example 4 Referring to FIG. 12, in Example 4, general-purpose polystyrene (GPPS) was used as the target material, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide was used as the index value, and flexural strength was used as the characteristic value.

[0171] The chemiluminescence intensity was measured using a common device such as the chemiluminescence measuring device 30A shown in Figure 4. Specifically, virgin GPPS material and three levels of test materials were prepared by subjecting the virgin material to several heat treatments to oxidative degradation. Sample 13 was prepared from the virgin material, and Samples 14 to 16 were prepared from the three levels of test material. Each sample contained a certain number of cylindrical transparent pellets. The pellet shapes were similar. In other words, Samples 13 to 16 had the same phase and transparency / opacity, and also had similar weights. The chemiluminescence intensity (index value) of Samples 13 to 16 prepared as described above was measured.

[0172] The bending strength was measured using four test pieces 13 to 16 prepared from each of the samples 13 to 16. Specifically, for each of the samples 13 to 16, the test piece was injection molded using the same pellets as the sample. The bending strength (characteristic value) of the test pieces 13 to 16 prepared as described above was measured.

[0173] The index values ​​of specimens 13 to 16 were plotted on the XY graph in FIG. 12, with the X-axis representing the values ​​and the Y-axis representing the values ​​of the characteristics of specimens 13 to 16. In addition, a regression function (correlation between index values ​​and characteristic values), which is a linear function, was derived from the index values ​​of specimens 13 to 16 and the characteristic values ​​of specimens 13 to 16 by the least squares method. As shown in FIG. 12, the derived linear function f(x) is expressed as y=-2(10 -6 )x+103.96. Also, the coefficient of determination R 2 The coefficient of determination (R) was 0.8927. 2indicates that there is a strong correlation between the index value and the characteristic value. This strong correlation also indicates that in Example 4, an appropriate mixing ratio between virgin and recycled materials can be derived without relying on experience by using a method similar to Examples 1 to 3.

[0174] Example 5 Referring to FIG. 13, in Example 5, general-purpose polystyrene (GPPS) was used as the target material, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide was used as the index value, and tensile strength was used as the characteristic value.

[0175] The chemiluminescence intensity was measured using a common device such as the chemiluminescence measuring device 30A shown in Figure 4. Specifically, virgin GPPS material and three levels of test materials were prepared by subjecting the virgin material to several heat treatments to oxidative degradation. Sample 17 was prepared from the virgin material, and Samples 18 to 20 were prepared from the three levels of test material. Each sample contained a certain number of cylindrical transparent pellets. The pellet shapes were similar. In other words, Samples 17 to 20 had the same phase and transparency / opacity, and also had similar weights. The chemiluminescence intensity (index value) of Samples 17 to 20 prepared as described above was measured.

[0176] The tensile strength was measured using four test pieces 17 to 20 prepared from each of the samples 17 to 20. Specifically, for each of the samples 17 to 20, the test piece was injection molded using the same pellets as the sample. The tensile strength (characteristic value) of the test pieces 17 to 20 prepared as described above was measured.

[0177] The index values ​​of specimens 17 to 20 were plotted on the XY graph in FIG. 13, with the X-axis representing the values ​​and the Y-axis representing the values ​​of the characteristics of specimens 17 to 20. In addition, a regression function (correlation between index values ​​and characteristic values), which is a linear function, was derived from the index values ​​of specimens 17 to 20 and the characteristic values ​​of specimens 17 to 20 by the least squares method. As shown in FIG. 13, the derived linear function f(x) is expressed as y=-6(10 -7 )x+43.308. Also, the coefficient of determination R 2The coefficient of determination (R) was 0.8565. 2 indicates that there is a strong correlation between the index value and the characteristic value. This strong correlation also indicates that in Example 5, an appropriate mixing ratio between virgin and recycled materials can be derived without relying on experience by using a method similar to Examples 1 to 3.

[0178] Example 6 Referring to FIG. 14, in Example 6, homopolypropylene (homoPP) was used as the target material, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide was used as the index value, and the tensile elongation at break was used as the characteristic value.

[0179] The chemiluminescence intensity was measured using a common device, such as the chemiluminescence measuring device 30A shown in Figure 4. Specifically, virgin homo-PP material and three levels of test materials were prepared by subjecting the virgin material to several heat treatments to oxidative degradation. Sample 21 was prepared from the virgin material, and Samples 22 to 24 were prepared from the three levels of test material. Each sample contained a certain number of cylindrical, translucent pellets. The pellet shapes were similar. That is, Samples 21 to 24 had the same phase and transparency / opacity, and the total area of ​​the portion of Samples 21 to 24 facing the photodetector 58A (see Figure 4) was similar. Furthermore, Samples 21 to 24 had the same weight. The chemiluminescence intensity (index value) of Samples 21 to 24 prepared as described above was measured.

[0180] The tensile elongation at break was measured using four test pieces 21 to 24 prepared from samples 21 to 24, respectively. Specifically, for each of samples 21 to 24, the test piece was injection molded using the same pellets as the sample. The tensile elongation at break (characteristic value) of test pieces 21 to 24 prepared as described above was measured.

[0181] The index values ​​of specimens 21 to 24 were plotted on the XY graph in FIG. 14, with the X-axis representing the index values ​​and the Y-axis representing the characteristic values ​​of specimens 21 to 24. Furthermore, a regression function (correlation between index values ​​and characteristic values), which is a linear function, was derived from the index values ​​of specimens 21 to 24 and the characteristic values ​​of specimens 21 to 24 by the least squares method. As shown in FIG. 14, the derived linear function f(x) was y = 0.1724x + 12.25. Furthermore, the coefficient of determination R 2 The coefficient of determination (R) was 0.9245. 2 indicates that there is a very strong correlation between the index value and the characteristic value. This very strong correlation also indicates that in Example 6, an appropriate mixing ratio between virgin and recycled materials can be derived without relying on experience by using a method similar to Examples 1 to 3.

[0182] Example 7 Referring to FIG. 15, in Example 7, block polypropylene (block PP) was used as the target material, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide was used as the index value, and Charpy impact strength was used as the characteristic value.

[0183] The chemiluminescence intensity was measured using a common device, such as the chemiluminescence measuring device 30A shown in Figure 4. Specifically, two levels of test materials were prepared: virgin block PP material and two levels of virgin material that had been subjected to multiple heat treatments to oxidize and deteriorate. Sample 25 was prepared from the virgin material, and Samples 26 and 27 were prepared from the two levels of test material. Each sample contained a certain number of cylindrical opaque pellets. The pellet shapes were similar. That is, Samples 25 to 27 had the same phase and transparency / opacity, and the total area of ​​the portion of Samples 25 to 27 facing the photodetector 58A (see Figure 4) was similar. Samples 25 to 27 also had similar weights. The chemiluminescence intensity (index value) of Samples 25 to 27 prepared as described above was measured.

[0184] The Charpy impact strength was measured using three test pieces 25 to 27 prepared from each of the samples 25 to 27. Specifically, for each of the samples 25 to 27, the test piece was injection molded using the same pellets as the sample. The Charpy impact strength (characteristic value) of the test pieces 25 to 27 prepared as described above was measured.

[0185] The index values ​​of specimens 25 to 27 were plotted on the XY graph in FIG. 15, with the X-axis representing the index values ​​and the Y-axis representing the characteristic values ​​of specimens 25 to 27. In addition, a regression function (correlation between index values ​​and characteristic values), which is a linear function, was derived from the index values ​​of specimens 25 to 27 and the characteristic values ​​of specimens 25 to 27 by the least squares method. As shown in FIG. 15, the derived linear function f(x) is expressed as y=-9(10 -8 )x+11.916. Also, the coefficient of determination R 2 The index value was 0.9941, indicating a very strong correlation between the index value and the characteristic value. This very strong correlation indicates that in Example 7, too, an appropriate mixing ratio between virgin and recycled materials can be derived using a method similar to Examples 1 to 3 without relying on experience.

[0186] Example 8 9, in Example 8, general-purpose polystyrene (GPPS) was used as the target material, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide was used as the index value, and the Charpy impact strength was used as the characteristic value, as in Example 1. Therefore, in Example 8, the XY graph and linear function in FIG. 9 that were already created in Example 1 were used.

[0187] First, a sixth recycled material was prepared for use in producing the recycled material. The sixth recycled material was a mixture of the seventh recycled material, which had a relatively low degree of oxidative degradation, and the eighth recycled material, which had a relatively high degree of oxidative degradation. In the sixth recycled material, the weight ratio of the seventh recycled material was 25%, and the weight ratio of the eighth recycled material was 75%. As in Example 1, a recycled sample R6 was prepared from the sixth recycled material, and the chemiluminescence amount (index value) was measured. The index value (RV) of recycled sample R6 was 6,875,214 counts / g.

[0188] Desired characteristic value (DV) is 2kJ / m 2 The index value that gives this characteristic value was calculated using the linear function in Figure 9. The calculated index value f -1 The DV was 2,432,000 counts / g, the same as in Example 1. From the index value (VV: 801,553 counts / g) of sample 1 in Example 1 and the index value (RV) of recycled sample R6, RV×a+VV×(1−a)=f -1 The value of a that satisfies (DV) was calculated. The calculated value of a was approximately 0.27.

[0189] As is clear from the description of this embodiment, even if the recycled material to be mixed with virgin material is a mixture of multiple recycled materials, as in Example 8, an appropriate mixing ratio between virgin material and recycled material can be derived without relying on experience.

[0190] Example 9 Referring to Figure 16, in Example 9, a mixture formed from a base material, polypropylene (PP), and starch (additive) blended into the base material was used as the target material, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide was used as the index value, and Charpy impact strength was used as the characteristic value.

[0191] As in Example 1, the chemiluminescence intensity was measured using a general device such as the chemiluminescence measuring device 30A shown in Figure 4. Specifically, the mixture was subjected to a thermal load using an extruder, thereby producing three levels of test materials (Samples 28-30) that were oxidatively degraded. Samples 28, 29, and 30 were extruded once, three times, and five times, respectively. The appearance of each of Samples 28-30 was opaque white. Meanwhile, all three Samples 28-30 had the same weight and shape, and the total area of ​​the portion of Samples 28-30 facing the photodetector 58A (see Figure 4) was similar to each other. The chemiluminescence intensity (index value) of Samples 28-30 prepared as described above was measured.

[0192] Similarly to Example 1, the Charpy impact strength (characteristic value) was measured using three test pieces 28 to 30 prepared from Samples 28 to 30, respectively.

[0193] The index values ​​of specimens 28 to 30 were plotted on the XY graph of FIG. 16, with the X-axis representing the index values ​​and the Y-axis representing the characteristic values ​​of specimens 28 to 30. Furthermore, a regression function (correlation between index values ​​and characteristic values), which is a linear function, was derived from the index values ​​of specimens 28 to 30 and the characteristic values ​​of specimens 28 to 30 by the least squares method. As shown in FIG. 16, the derived linear function f(x) is expressed as y=-2(10 -6 )x+20.701. Also, the coefficient of determination R 2 The correlation coefficient was 0.961, indicating a very strong correlation between the index value and the characteristic value. This very strong correlation indicates that in Example 9, too, an appropriate mixing ratio between virgin and recycled materials can be derived without relying on experience by using a method similar to Examples 1 to 3.

[0194] Example 10 Referring to FIG. 17, in Example 10, polypropylene (PP) was used as the target material, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide was used as the index value, and complex viscosity was used as the characteristic value.

[0195] As in Example 1, the chemiluminescence intensity was measured using a general device such as the chemiluminescence measuring device 30A shown in Figure 4. Specifically, virgin PP material and three levels of test materials were prepared by subjecting the virgin material to several heat treatments to oxidative degradation. Transparent pellet-shaped sample 31 was prepared from the virgin material, and transparent pellet-shaped samples 32 to 34 were prepared from the three levels of test material. That is, samples 31 to 34 had the same phase and transparent / opaque state. Furthermore, samples 31 to 34 had similar weights. The chemiluminescence intensity (index value) of samples 31 to 34 prepared as described above was measured. The index value (VV) of sample 31, which was virgin material, was 647,463 counts.

[0196] The complex viscosity was measured using the same resin material as samples 31 to 34. Specifically, the virgin material from which sample 31 was made and the three levels of test materials from which samples 32 to 34 were made were each heated to make four disk-shaped members (circular members). The four circular members were melted and measured for 0.1 sec using a rotational rheometer. -1 The complex viscosity (characteristic value) was measured when a shear rate of 1000 kJ / min was applied.

[0197] The index values ​​of Samples 31 to 34 were plotted on an XY semi-logarithmic graph in FIG. 17, with the X-axis representing the index values ​​and the Y-axis representing the characteristic values ​​of the same resin material as Samples 31 to 34. In addition, a regression function (correlation between index values ​​and characteristic values), which is an exponential function, was derived from the index values ​​and characteristic values ​​of Samples 31 to 34 by the least squares method. As shown in FIG. 17, the derived exponential function f(x) was expressed as y=2414.8×e -2E-07x (The exponent of e is -2(10 -7 )x). Also, the coefficient of determination R 2 The coefficient of determination (R) was 0.9645. 2 indicates that there is a strong correlation between the index value and the characteristic value.

[0198] Next, a ninth recycled material was prepared for use in the production of recycled materials. The index value of the ninth recycled material was measured in the same manner as samples 31 to 34. Specifically, a transparent pellet-shaped recycled sample R9 was prepared from the ninth recycled material. That is, the phase and transparent / opaque state of recycled sample R9 were the same as those of samples 31 to 34. The weight of recycled sample R9 was also the same as those of samples 31 to 34. The amount of chemiluminescence (index value) of recycled sample R9 prepared as described above was measured. The index value (RV) of recycled sample R9 was 5,664,239 counts.

[0199] The desired characteristic value (DV) was set to 1410 Pa·s, and the index value at which this characteristic value was obtained was calculated using the exponential function described above. The calculated index value f -1 The DV was 2,690,134 counts. From the index value (VV) of sample 31 and the index value (RV) of recycled sample R9, RV×a+VV×(1-a)=f-1 The value of a that satisfies (DV) was calculated. The calculated value of a was approximately 0.41.

[0200] Example 10 shows that, even when the characteristic values ​​are processing characteristics and the regression function is an exponential function, results similar to those of Examples 1 to 9 described above can be obtained if the morphological conditions are the same.

[0201] Example 11 17, in Example 11, polypropylene (PP) was used as the target material, the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide was used as the index value, and complex viscosity was used as the characteristic value, similar to Example 10. Therefore, in Example 11, the XY graph and exponential function in FIG. 17 that were already created in Example 10 were used.

[0202] First, the tenth recycled material was prepared for use in producing the recycled material. The tenth recycled material was a mixture of the eleventh recycled material, which had a relatively low degree of oxidative degradation, and the ninth recycled material, which had a relatively high degree of oxidative degradation. In the tenth recycled material, the weight ratio of the eleventh recycled material was 75%, and the weight ratio of the ninth recycled material was 25%. As in Example 10, a recycled sample R10 was prepared from the tenth recycled material, and the chemiluminescence amount (index value) was measured. The index value (RV) of the recycled sample R10 was 3,060,635 counts.

[0203] The desired characteristic value (DV) was set to 1410 Pa·s, and the index value at which this characteristic value was obtained was calculated using the exponential function described above. The calculated index value f -1 The DV was 2,690,134 counts. From the index value (VV) of sample 31 and the index value (RV) of recycled sample R10, RV×a+VV×(1-a)=f -1 The value of a that satisfies (DV) was calculated. The calculated value of a was approximately 0.84. As a result, the mixing ratio between virgin material, 11th recycled material, and 9th recycled material was 0.16:0.63:0.21.

[0204] Example 11 shows that even if the characteristic value is a processing characteristic, the regression function is an exponential function, and the recycled material to be mixed with the virgin material is a mixture of multiple recycled materials, it is possible to derive an appropriate mixing ratio between the virgin material and the recycled material without relying on experience. [Explanation of symbols]

[0205] 10 Playback support device 20 Control device 202 Control Processing 204 Correlation Derivation Processing 206 Mixing ratio derivation process 22 Device body 24 Storage device 26 Input Devices 28 Display device 30, 30A, 30B Chemiluminescence measurement device 32 Photography Department 34 Measurement section 38 Interface section 50 Sample Chamber 52 Target Samples 53 Peroxide 54 Petri dish 56 Heating section 57,58 Receiver 58A Photodetector (Photomultiplier Tube)

Claims

1. A method for recycling a resin material, which produces a recycled material-containing resin from a virgin material and a recycled material containing at least one of a pre-consumer recycled material and a consumer recycled material, a pre-process of preparing three or more levels of samples of the resin material, the samples having different degrees of oxidative degradation, but the samples having the same morphological conditions suitable for measuring the degree of oxidative degradation; a correlation deriving step of deriving a correlation between an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the sample and a characteristic value indicating the strength or appearance of a test piece formed from the same resin material as the sample; a preparation step of preparing a recycled sample that is a sample of the recycled material, the recycled sample having the same morphological conditions as the sample; and a mixing ratio deriving step of deriving a mixing ratio between the virgin material and the recycled material to obtain the recycled material-containing resin having the desired characteristic value based on the correlation from the index value of the recycled material. How to play.

2. 2. The reproducing method according to claim 1, the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide or the oxidation induction time, the characteristic value is a mechanical characteristic value or an optical characteristic value, When the sample and the recycled sample are both solids in the same transparent / opaque state, or when the sample and the recycled sample are both liquids, the sample and the recycled sample have the same morphological conditions. How to play.

3. A method for recycling a resin material, which produces a recycled material-containing resin from a virgin material and a recycled material containing at least one of a pre-consumer recycled material and a consumer recycled material, a pre-process of preparing three or more levels of samples of the resin material, the samples having different degrees of oxidative degradation, but the samples having the same morphological conditions suitable for measuring the degree of oxidative degradation; a correlation deriving step of deriving a correlation between an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the sample and a characteristic value indicating processing characteristics when molding the same resin material as the sample; a preparation step of preparing a recycled sample that is a sample of the recycled material, the recycled sample having the same morphological conditions as the sample; and a mixing ratio deriving step of deriving a mixing ratio between the virgin material and the recycled material to obtain the recycled material-containing resin having the desired characteristic value based on the correlation from the index value of the recycled material. How to play.

4. 4. The regeneration method according to claim 3, the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence derived from peroxide or the oxidation induction time, The characteristic value is a value indicating viscosity, rheological properties, or thermal properties during melting or solidification, When the sample and the recycled sample are both solids in the same transparent / opaque state, or when the sample and the recycled sample are both liquids, the sample and the recycled sample have the same morphological conditions. How to play.

5. The regeneration method according to claim 2 or 4, the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence, Both the sample and the recycled sample are transparent solids. How to play.

6. 6. The reproducing method according to claim 5, When the sample and the recycled sample are pulverized, the sample and the recycled sample are sieved with sieves having the same mesh size. How to play.

7. 6. The reproducing method according to claim 5, The temperature reached when measuring the amount of chemiluminescence is equal to or lower than the temperature at which the thermal weight loss rate of the sample or the recycled sample in thermogravimetric analysis under nitrogen flow is 1% or less. How to play.

8. The regeneration method according to claim 2 or 4, the index value is the amount of chemiluminescence, Both the sample and the recycled sample are opaque solids. How to play.

9. 9. The reproducing method according to claim 8, When the sample and the recycled sample are pulverized, the sample and the recycled sample are sieved with sieves having the same mesh size. How to play.

10. 9. The reproducing method according to claim 8, The temperature reached when measuring the amount of chemiluminescence is equal to or lower than the temperature at which the thermal weight loss rate of the sample or the recycled sample in thermogravimetric analysis under nitrogen flow is 1% or less. How to play.

11. The regeneration method according to claim 2 or 4, The index value is an oxidation induction time, The holding temperature when measuring the oxidation induction time is a temperature or lower at which the thermal weight loss rate of the sample or the recycled sample in thermogravimetric analysis under nitrogen flow is 1% or less. How to play.

12. A recycling support device that supports the recycling of resin materials from virgin materials and recycled materials including at least one of pre-consumer recycled materials and consumer recycled materials, The regeneration support device includes a chemiluminescence measurement device and a control device, The chemiluminescence measuring device is capable of measuring an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the resin material sample, and is also capable of measuring an index value indicating the degree of oxidative degradation of the recycled material. the control device is equipped with an input device and is communicably connected to the chemiluminescence measurement device; the control device is capable of executing a correlation deriving process and a mixing ratio deriving process; the control device, in the correlation deriving process, derives a correlation between the index value of the sample received from the chemiluminescence measuring device and a characteristic value of a test piece formed from the same resin material as the sample and input from the input device; In the mixing ratio derivation process, the control device derives a mixing ratio between the virgin material and the recycled material to obtain a recycled-material-containing resin having a desired characteristic value based on the correlation from the index value of the recycled material received from the chemiluminescence measurement device. Playback support device.

13. A program for causing a computer to function as a control device in the playback support device according to claim 12.

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