Aluminum-plastic composite panels (often called ACP or aluminum composite panels) are everywhere—building façades, signage, curtain walls, interiors, and even transportation projects. Lightweight, durable, and cost-effective, they helped modern architecture boom.

But here’s the problem: ACP waste is notoriously difficult to recycle. Aluminum and plastic are tightly bonded. Mechanical separation alone is inefficient, while landfilling or incineration wastes valuable resources and creates environmental pressure.

That’s where the aluminum-plastic composite panel thermal decomposition and separation machine steps in.

What Is an Aluminum-Plastic Composite Panel Thermal Decomposition and Separation Machine?

An aluminum-plastic composite panel thermal decomposition and separation machine is an industrial recycling system designed to separate aluminum sheets from plastic cores by controlled heating.

Instead of burning or shredding ACP waste indiscriminately, this machine uses precise thermal decomposition to:

• Break down or soften the plastic layer
• Release aluminum sheets intact
• Recover high-purity aluminum with minimal loss

The result? Clean aluminum, reusable plastic residues, and significantly higher recycling value.

Why ACP Waste Is So Hard to Recycle?

ACP panels typically consist of:

• Two aluminum sheets (0.2–0.5 mm thick)
• A polyethylene (PE) or fire-retardant plastic core

These layers are bonded under high pressure. Traditional shredding:

• Produces mixed fragments
• Lowers aluminum purity
• Increases downstream sorting costs

According to industry estimates, up to 30–40% of aluminum value can be lost using outdated recycling methods. Thermal decomposition machines solve this bottleneck.

ACP Stripping Machine

How does the thermal decomposition and separation process work?

The process is simple and efficient:

1. Feeding and Pre-treatment

Aluminum composite panels (ACP) are cut into manageable sizes or fed directly into the system. Excessive crushing is not required.

2. Controlled Thermal Decomposition

The material is heated by flame as it is fed into the system.

The temperature is precisely controlled (typically 300–550°C).

The plastic core decomposes or melts, while the aluminum does not oxidize.

3. Aluminum-Plastic Separation

As the plastic decomposes:

The aluminum sheets separate naturally.

The plastic residue can be collected, recycled, or safely disposed of.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does the aluminum melt during the process?

No. Aluminum melts at 660°C, while decomposition operates well below that. This ensures:

Structural integrity of aluminum

No oxidation loss

Higher resale value

2. What types of ACP can be processed?

Most machines handle:

• PE core ACP
• Fire-retardant ACP
• Used façade panels
• Factory off-cuts

Thickness and size ranges are adjustable.

So, what is an aluminum-plastic composite panel thermal decomposition and separation machine?

It’s not just a piece of equipment.
It’s a strategic upgrade for modern recyclers who want:

• Higher aluminum recovery
• Cleaner separation
• Better margins
• Long-term sustainability

As ACP waste continues to grow worldwide, thermal decomposition is quickly becoming the gold standard. Those who adopt it early won’t just recycle better—they’ll lead the market.