Treating polystyrene foam

摘要: Method and apparatus are provided for treating (e.g., recycling) polystyrene foam scrap particulate in a manner which increases the density of while minimizing an amount heat required to convert into densified solid plastic flakes), thereby avoiding noticeable polymer degradation. The invention involves first heating particulates semi-molten state zone so that coalesce. Pressure is then applied pressure coalescing. by mechanism crushes heated softened polystyrene, preferably maintains on until cools below softening temperature polystyrene. squeezes essentially all gases (entrained air expansion gases) from thus precludes, e.g., rebounding pre-crushed density. retention sustained obviates utilization degree would melt its completely liquid (molten) state. crushing cooling enhances bulk producing chips or flakes having average thickness range about 0.010 inch 0.035 inch. heater comprise disclosed techniques facilitate obtain enhanced throughput index ρ excess 500, advantageously enhancing even when low input utilized.