Areas of Application

With the special technique "sliding spark spectrometry" now an interesting tool for fast plastic identification exists. It enables direct analysis of solid, non-conductive parts of household, engineering electronics and automotive waste plastics and other materials.

Dust, dirt or paints covering the sample surface and disturbing the measurement can be easily removed by scratching with a knife.

The basic principle of the method is the thermal vaporization of a small amount of the plastic surface using a row of defined high-current sliding sparks. The material components in the spark plasma are vaporized, atomized and activated to emit radiation.

For plastic identification the sparking head is simply pressed on to the analysis sample. The measurement begins by pressing the start button on the pistol grip. After one second an integrated LCD displays the result. Furthermore the result can be shown on an external VGA screen. The measuring head is equipped with a conductivity metal detector and a cable about 80 cm long connecting to the instrument.

The portable device includes the optical system, the spark generator and a computer, which controls and evaluates the identification process.

Parameter input and spectra views, can be set by using the integrated LCD-touchscreen. Additional connections like an external keyboard and a serial interface allows data transfer.

Halogen detection is effected by the characteristic emission of Chlorine and Bromine in the optical spectrum. The intensities of these spectral lines are compared with preset threshold values. These elements are detected if the pre-set threshold values for PVC, Chlorine and Bromine are exceeded. After calibration with known analyzed halogen containing samples, the system enables semi-quantitative measurements down to 1%.

Identification of PVC is possible by high concentrations of Chlorine measured.

The portable sliding spark spectrometer allows the following samples to be analyzed within 1 second and independently of colour:

Identification of PVC
Detection of halogenated flame-retardants
Identification of Cl-containing surface layers
Detection of Cl-containing multilayers

Technical Data

Dimensions:	260 x 150 x 160 mm
Weight:	4 kg
Power Supply:	100 - 230 VAC, 50/60 Hz

Optional Accessories

External VGA-screen for bigger display of the results

Specifics of this unit

Customers can arrange to have the system calibrated using their own samples or to detect other significant elements (e.g. Lead or Fluorine).

For RPF (Refuse Paper and Plastic Fuel)
Identification of plastics from household- and electronics waste
On site analysis, e.g. in a dismantling area
1 sec. measuring time
Identification of PVC
Detection of Bromine- and Chlorine containing fire retardants and surface layers

Intelligent Technologies
for Plastic Detection