When assessing the mechanical performance of original and recovered plastic granules, notable distinctions arise that significantly impact their performance in manufacturing and end use.

Primary granules, derived directly from virgin hydrocarbon inputs, maintain stable and repeatable performance. They possess a uniform molecular structure, virtually no pollutants, and engineered compounding agents, resulting in greater breaking load capacity, improved strain capacity, and better resistance to sudden force.

These qualities make primary pellets perfect for mission-critical uses such as medical devices, engine housings and structural elements, and food packaging.

Reprocessed pellets, on the other hand, are produced by reprocessing used consumer plastics or industrial scrap. While they offer sustainability advantages and cost reductions, their structural integrity are typically degraded compared to newly produced granules. Repeated extrusion and molding processes during recycling can cause polymer chain scission, lowering average chain length, and leading to weakened structural integrity and elongation potential. Contaminants such as dirt, other plastics, تولید کننده گرانول بازیافتی or residual additives may also interfere with the material's integrity.

Therefore, reprocessed pellets tend to be fragile under stress, with reduced elongation and impact resistance.

The degree of property loss depends on the specific thermoplastic, the recovery technique, and how many cycles it has undergone. As an illustration, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP) can preserve key mechanical traits after one or two recycling cycles, if thoroughly segregated and washed. Conversely, materials like polystyrene (PS) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) often show marked loss in performance.

To counteract degradation, fabricators frequently mix reclaimed pellets with new polymer feedstock. This composite formulation can balance cost savings with performance requirements. Functional modifiers such as UV inhibitors, nucleating agents, or carbon nanotubes can also be included to strengthen the mechanical properties of recycled content.

In essence, while virgin granules offer superior and more consistent mechanical performance, secondary polymers are advancing technologically and are expanding into general-purpose applications. The choice between the two should be guided by the specific demands of the product, sustainability goals, and acceptable trade-offs in performance. As recovery methods improve, the quality gap is closing, turning recycled granules into a viable mainstream choice across a broader range of industries.

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Pub: 21 Dec 2025 16:20 UTC

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