Advances in Recycling & Waste Management

The effect of repeated injection processing cycles on the structure and properties of poly (hydroxybutyrate)/ poly (butylene succinate-co-adipate) blends, initially extruded by using a twin screw extruder, was investigated. The recycling was simulated by performing five successive injections/ grinding runs. Neat poly (hydroxybutyrate) was also reprocessed under the same conditions as a reference. The results showed that the recyclability of PHB is restricted due to its sensitivity to thermomechanical degradation. Nevertheless, the PBSA addition had a stabilizing effect on PHB and an improved compatibility between the two components was observed during the reprocessing cycles due to a morphology evolution from cocontinuous to droplets in matrix type. This morphological transition was the main factor to the significant increase of the blend ductility right after the first injection cycle.

The thermal, the viscoelastic and the mechanical properties of this blend were maintained during the recycling process thus testifying that this formulation can be recycled several times by injection molding without losing its performances before being composted.

This article explores the latest advancements in the extraction of lycopene from tomato waste, shedding light on its potential as a powerful antioxidant with numerous health benefits. Lycopene, a carotenoid pigment responsible for the red color in tomatoes, has gained significant attention for its antioxidant properties and potential in preventing various chronic diseases. With an increasing focus on sustainable practices and waste utilization, researchers are actively working on developing efficient methods to extract lycopene from tomato by-products. This article provides an overview of the importance of lycopene, the challenges in extraction, and recent breakthroughs in the field. Additionally, it discusses the diverse applications of lycopene in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, highlighting its role in promoting health and wellness.

Plastic waste pollution presents a significant environmental challenge worldwide, demanding innovative solutions for mitigation and recycling. One promising avenue involves the conversion of plastic waste into supports for nanostructured heterogeneous catalysts, offering dual benefits of waste management and environmental cleanup. This article explores the various methodologies, catalysts, and applications involved in this emerging field. By repurposing plastic waste into catalyst supports, researchers aim to address environmental concerns while fostering sustainable practices. Through a comprehensive examination of the current literature, this article elucidates the mechanisms, challenges, and potential of plastic waste conversion into supports for nanostructured heterogeneous catalysts in environmental cleanup efforts.

The rapid growth of electronic waste (e-waste) poses a significant environmental challenge, with the accumulation of valuable metals in discarded devices contributing to resource depletion and pollution. Traditional methods of metal extraction from e-waste are often energy-intensive and environmentally detrimental. This article explores an innovative and sustainable approach to metal extraction from electronic waste by harnessing the unique abilities of manganese-oxidizing fungi. These fungi, known for their role in biogeochemical cycling, offer a promising avenue for eco-friendly and cost-effective metal recovery. This article reviews the current state of electronic waste management, highlights the potential of manganese-oxidizing fungi, discusses the mechanisms involved in metal extraction, and evaluates the environmental and economic implications of this approach.