Technology
Plastic Identification Technology Using Terahertz Waves
By analyzing the differences in transmittance and reflectance of terahertz waves on plastic molecules, it is possible to identify types of waste plastics based on their materials (e.g., PE, PP, PS, PET, bioplastics), distinguish black plastics, and detect plastics with added substances.
Plastic packaging identification experiment in progress
Strength
The ability to identify previously unrecognizable plastics in recycling processes such as “black plastics”, “additive mixed plastics” & “bioplastics” can significantly enhance the market value of recycled plastics.
Conventional identification technologies have difficulty detecting black plastics. When mixed plastics containing additives or flame retardants are included, the purity of the plastic decreases, significantly limiting its potential applications and reducing its market value.
Use Case
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1
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Implementation at material recycling plants for packaging plastics, large supermarkets, and recycling stations in public facilities.
By introducing this technology to resource waste collection stations at large supermarkets, public facilities, and waste recycling plants, it becomes possible to recycle waste plastic into high-purity plastic materials. This contributes to the horizontal recycling of packaging plastics (e.g. Containers, trays, vinyl packaging). Additionally, the technology enables the identification of bioplastics, which are expected to see a significant increase in usage. -
2
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Implementation at recycling plants for waste plastics derived from used automobiles
By introducing this technology to recycling plants for used automobiles, it becomes possible to recycle plastic waste generated from end-of-life vehicles into high-purity plastic materials. This contributes to Car2Car horizontal recycling, which demands high-purity and high-durability plastics, a trend that is gaining momentum, particularly in Europe. -
3
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Implementation at recycling plants for waste plastics derived from used electronics
By introducing this technology to recycling plants for used household and small electronics, it becomes possible to recycle plastic waste generated from these devices into high-purity plastic materials.
Message from the Lab
What I want to know
Tohoku University Green Future Creation Organization,
Graduate school of International Cultures,
Graduate school of Environmental Sciences, Professor
Prof. Yu Jeongsoo
The current state of plastic waste management in various countries, the associated social issues that arise, the market size of recycled plastics, and the level of environmental awareness among stakeholders (businesses, residents, governments, and the recycling industry).
Desired Candidate Profile
- Individuals with a passion for addressing their country's plastic waste problems and associated social issues through precise plastic sorting, as well as those eager to enhance public environmental awareness.
- Individuals particularly interested in policy proposals, with a vision and passion for making policy recommendations to address their country's waste issues in the future or integrating such proposals into business initiatives.
Since waste management is a systemic issue at the national level, collaboration with policies is considered essential for fundamental solutions.
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