Development of Formulations to Recycle Expanded EVA Powder and Scraps, Reducing Environmental Impacts

Abstract: By means of a technological extension service using the PRUMO service mode, created and operated by IPT, we have developed new formulations based in the copolymer Ethylene Vinyl Acetate — EVA, incorporating and recycling residues as EVA scraps resulting from the cutting of expanded plates and EVA powder made during the machining of these plates, generated during the forming and manufacturing process of sporting goods, keeping the desired physical properties and, consequently, the quality of the goods manufactured. For such purpose, an EVA-based compound was developed, followed by the development of two new compounds using EVA powder and scraps, which are residues of the production process. These new compounds were properly characterized in laboratory. Such classification showed that these new materials can be used in the production of sporting goods, preserving the quality of the products, reducing costs, and eliminating the need to send EVA powder and scraps to incinerators or landfill sites, thus contributing to the environment.

Key words: expanded EVA, EVA formulations, EVA repairing, EVA residues