- Date & Time: Thursday May 25th, 2023 4pm – 5pm. CST
- Location: EH 3690
- Webinar Link: https://uwmadison.zoom.us/j/93148223178?pwd=YzY0RW8xbjNIN0xRZmQxdkdLaHdlUT09
- Meeting ID: 931 4822 3178
- Passcode: 316921
Dr. Natalie Rudolph
Division Manager Polymer at NETZSCH
Abstract. Increasing recycling rates presents a major challenge in identifying and quantifying unknown compositions in recycled materials. Common methods are expensive and/or limited, especially for materials with nearly identical chemical structures such as polyolefins. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) offers an opportunity by identifying materials based on their melting properties while allowing for the quantification of components relative to a reference. This presentation will explain the method and important supplementary tools using several mixing examples that enable identification and quantification. At the same time, we will discuss the current weaknesses, along with the possible applications.
Biosketch. Dr. Natalie Rudolph has over 15 years experience in plastic processing and analysis in university and non-university research, as well as start-up environments. Her focus is on structure-property relationships for material and process optimization in classical plastic processing, composite manufacturing, and additive manufacturing while considering material circularity. She is a co-author of the textbook “Understanding Plastic Recycling: Economic, Ecological, and Technical Aspects of Plastic Waste Handling” (Carl Hanser Verlag, Munich, 2019). Today, she is the Division Manager Polymer at NETZSCH Analyzing & Testing.
*Dr. Rudolph will be attending the CUWP Annual Meeting on Tuesday May 16th*
