Research focuses on low-temperature processes

A new research project is set to deliver dramatic cost savings in reduced-temperature compounding of uPVC and in reduced temperature extrusion of solid uPVC profiles.

Rapra Technology is spearheading a new research project that is set to deliver dramatic cost savings in reduced-temperature compounding of uPVC and in reduced temperature extrusion of solid uPVC profiles.

Research monies of more than GBP 600,000 have been sourced for the project, which is based on the use of liquid carbon dioxide; lowering processing temperatures to reduce energy costs.

Investors include energy saving foundation, The Carbon Trust, Rapra member and PVC producer Hydro Polymers and Telford Extrusions.

An ancillary part of the overall research is investigating the processing use of the liquid CO2 technology as applied to recycled polymers.

This involves Rapra member, Synbra Polymers and JET International.

Rapra Technology is co-ordinating and leading the research across all areas and - thanks to its new corporate status following the MBO of July 2002 - is putting GBP 140,000 of its own money into the venture.

Patent applications have already been submitted to protect the developed technology.

Energy measurements will be carried out throughout the duration of the trials and the processes optimised to establish the maximum energy reductions possible.

If the technology is successful and is implemented across the industry then Rapra Technology estimates that CO2 emission savings of 40,600 tonnes per year are possible.

The project will start in April 2003 and is expected to be concluded twelve months hence.

"This is the first of what we hope are many research-based projects to be approved by the new Rapra", says Mark Gaddes, Project Co-ordinator.

"As a new company we are now at liberty to identify and back our own technology winners together with industry partners.

We are looking forward to sharing the benefits with them too".

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