Abstract: A process for separating ethylene glycol from a mixture of ethylene glycol and dimethyl terephthalate polymers is described. The mixture is comminuted, mixed with water, and agitated at a high fluid shear rate to disperse the polymers. A flocculant and, optionally, a filter aid are added to the mixture. Thereafter, the dimethyl terephthalate polymers are separated from the mixture. The process produces a commercially valuable ethylene glycol stream. The separated dimethyl terephthalate polymers are recovered in a form which facilitates disposal or, alternatively, re-use.

Abstract: A process for recovering dimethyl terephthalate and ethylene glycol from a stream including aqueous ethylene glycol is described. Adding a dispersing agent to the stream renders it filterable, and a subsequent cooling of the stream containing the dispersing agent causes dimethyl terephthalate to precipitate in a form which can be removed by conventional filtration. The precipitated dimethyl terephthalate is of a quality and purity suitable for use in the manufacture of polyethylene terephthalate. A commercially valuable ethylene glycol stream is also recovered by the process.