Recyclability of polymer scrap: which among the following scrap types can be remelted, recycled, and re-utilised most readily?

Introduction / Context:Polymer recyclability depends strongly on whether the material is a thermoplastic or a thermoset. This question checks the practical distinction from a waste-processing perspective.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Bakelite and epoxy resins are thermosets.
• Polythene (polyethylene) is a thermoplastic.
• We consider mechanical recycling by remelting and re-extrusion.

Concept / Approach:Thermoplastics soften and flow when heated, so their scrap can often be reprocessed by melting. Thermosets are crosslinked irreversibly and do not melt; they degrade on heating, making remelting impossible. Therefore, among the choices, polythene is the readily recyclable material via melt reprocessing.

Step-by-Step Solution:Classify materials: polythene = thermoplastic; Bakelite/epoxy = thermosets.Apply recyclability rule: only thermoplastics remelt.Select polythene accordingly.

Verification / Alternative check:Recycling codes and industry practice list polyethylene (PE) among the most recycled plastics (e.g., HDPE bottles, LDPE films) by melt reprocessing.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:Bakelite, epoxy: crosslinked networks do not remelt; only downcycling as fillers/ground powders is possible.None of these: incorrect because polythene qualifies.

Common Pitfalls:Assuming all plastics recycle identically; cure chemistry dictates feasibility.

Final Answer:Polythene (thermoplastic)