Polymer containing aluminum film used for packaging of foods was recycled by chemical processing with the aid of sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide. The products obtained from the recycling process were polymer, free of impurities, and aluminum sulfate [(Al2SO4)3], which is used as flocculating agent in water treatment processes and effluent. Infrared (FTIR) and flame tests were performed to help characterizing the polymers. The tests showed the presence of polyethylene and polyester, which are products used in the manufacture of such packaging.
Recycle; polymer; aluminum; plastic; packaging of foods
