Develop techniques using raman spectroscopy to improve the valorization of contaminated plastic waste during extrusion processes

Active Cooperative Agreement Awarded Last action

Award ID
70NANB25H089
Recipient
Awarding agency
Obligated
$399,421

Award facts

Completion date 58% complete
Place of performance
Lowell, MA 01854, USA

Award details come from USAspending.gov.

Description

Purpose
The purpose of this project is to develop techniques using raman spectroscopy to improve the valorization of contaminated plastic waste during extrusion processes.
Activities
The project will be carried out in three tasks: 1) evaluating the composition of mixed plastic waste samples using time-gated raman spectroscopy, 2) continuous reaction monitoring for polymer blend compatibilization using online raman spectroscopy, and 3) implementing real-time process control in polymer extrusion leveraging process line raman and near infrared spectroscopy. The research will be conducted in collaboration with industry partners and will involve the use of specialized equipment, including a twin-screw extruder and raman spectroscopy probes.
Expected outcomes
The project is expected to result in new applications for raman spectroscopy in plastics manufacturing, advancements in reactive extrusion, and the development of process control algorithms to handle variable plastic waste streams. These outcomes will enable more effective use of recycled plastics and improve the resilience of the US plastics manufacturing industry.
Intended beneficiaries
The techniques developed in this project will be beneficial to the plastics industry, with a specific focus on plastics reclaimers and recyclers working on plastics valorization. The data gathered from the measurements proposed in this project will be useful to industrial recyclers as well as researchers working on waste plastics innovation and enhancing supply chain stability.
Subrecipient activities
The recipient does not intend to subaward funds.

Transactions

Action Obligated Date
Amendment $179,421
Original award $220,000

Quick answers

Who received award 70NANB25H089?

70NANB25H089 was awarded to University Of Massachusetts Lowell by National Institute of Standards and Technology (Department of Commerce) on September 1, 2025.

How much is award 70NANB25H089 worth?

$399,421 has been obligated on 70NANB25H089.

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