(665b) Processing of Excess DoD Molding Powder in a Twin Screw Extruder

The ability to reformulate a molding powder and mix and extrude it into a desired shape using a continuous twin-screw process was explored. A series of hand mixes were made to determine if the molding powder could be reformulated using additional polymer and to develop a solvent system that could be used to form a lacquer. Batch mechanical mixes of various formulations were then processed and extruded through a vertical press to evaluate the "processability" of the formulations. Sensitivity testing was also performed to ensure that additional polymer did not render the product useless for its end application. Currently, larger scale methods of lacquer production, feeder testing of the molding powder, pump testing of the lacquer, and extruder processing trials are under way. . Successful completion of this project will allow for the profitable reuse/recycling of large amounts of excess DoD molding powders for use in the commercial mining industry.

Distribution Statement A. Approved for Public Release. Log No. 10-081