Formulation of Adhesive from Polyurethane/Polystyrene Waste Plastics

Plastic debris represents a worldwide problem. Since they can affect all underground and surface water bodies with impermissible and negatively impacts risks on wildlife, ecological habitats and health of coastal communities. This study aimed at developing an adhesive from waste Styrofoam (polystyrene) and polyurethane. This is dual beneficial by reducing environmental pollution and creating wealth from waste. The polyurethane (PU) and Styrofoam (PS) were obtained from waste heap within Jimeta Metropolis Yola, Adamawa State. These plastic wastes were washed; dry under sun and processed into small pieces to enable uniform solubility. Subsequently, various blend of PU:PS were processed into adhesive by chemical interaction of toluene solvent. The assessment of the physicochemical parameters of the formulated adhesives affirmed conformity with the standard and literatures. Also, the formulated adhesive was tested for bond strength on five different surfaces namely; ceramic, aluminium sheet, wood, glass and plastic. The bond strength is: ceramic (3.64 MPa), aluminium sheet (1.540MPa), wood (3.010MPa), glass (3.150MPa) and plastic (2.316MPa) respectively. The formulated adhesive from these plastics depicted good bond strength on the different surfaces studied.