Abstract: Apparatus and method for reclaiming expanded synthetic resin wastes in a form suitable for subsequent injection molding. The apparatus includes a tank containing a solvent having a pump for pumping dissolved resin wastes to an evaporator. The evaporator comprises an endless belt on which dissolved resin waste is deposited and precipitates in the form of a thin film. A heater is disposed below the belt to expedite separation of solute and solvent by evaporation. A blower disposed within a housing enclosing the endless belt establishes air circulation over the belt, further promoting evaporation. The thin film is wound on a roller and subjected to a heated roller to fuse the many thin film strata into a solid, generally cylindrical mass. The solid mass is then comminuted by a granulator. Evaporated solvent is recovered in a condenser and is reused.

Abstract: The present invention features a portable waste disposal unit designed to receive expanded polystyrene or similar polymeric waste. Waste is loaded into a waste reception chamber via a loading door. Once the loading door is closed and locked, a mechanical ram forces the waste charge downward into a removable tank containing a layer of a solvent such as perchloroethylene and an upper layer of water. The waste is dissolved in the solvent and stored until the tank is either removed or drained and the contents shipped to an appropriate waste recovery facility. The small size of the portable waste disposal unit makes it ideal for location near the source of the waste to be recycled. Significant compacting of wastes such as expanded polystyrene may be realized by dissolving the waste in a solvent such as perchloroethylene. In addition, the first step of a recycling process is effectively accomplished within the inventive unit.