Howard T Bradsher

US Patent:

55041205, Apr 2, 1996

Filed:

Nov 28, 1994

Appl. No.:

8/345273

Inventors:

John B. Hopkins - Pineville NC
Howard T. Bradsher - Charlotte NC
David O. Kutscher - Charlotte NC

Assignee:

Hoechst Celanese Corporation - Somerville NJ

International Classification:

C08J 1100

US Classification:

521 40

Abstract:

A process for recycling waste from the manufacture of filtered cigarettes is disclosed herein. The process comprises the following steps: A waste stream from the manufacture of filtered cigarettes is provided. The waste stream includes tobacco, filter tips comprising cellulose ester polymer, and paper. A substantial portion of the filter tips is separated from this waste stream. The filter tips are washed with a sufficient volume of water to liberate bound tipping paper and to remove contaminants from the cellulose ester polymer. Oxidizers may be added to improve tip color and/or serve as a pretreatment. The cellulose ester polymer may then be dried, resolutioned, and processed into useful articles of commerce.