CARE has named the University of Connecticut as the recipient of the organization’s grant to develop processes, products and identify viable market outlets for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) derived from post-consumer carpet.

“CARE is delighted with the proposal submitted by Dr. Richard Parnas of the University of Connecticut, and look forward to a creative effort for the use of PET post-consumer carpet recycle opportunities,” said CARE’s Executive Director Dr. Robert Peoples.

An 18 month project, the University of Connecticut and Parnas research group will receive funding from CARE to developing a clear and economically viable path toward PET carpet recycling. While the infrastructure for the path forward cannot be completely finalized in one year, demonstration of a variety of technologies, applicable products, market outlets, performance specifications and an economic model will be complete.

“The Parnas research group is very pleased to continue our green materials research under the sponsorship of CARE, with the goal of recycling waste carpet fiber into state-of-the-art construction materials,” said Dr. Richard Parnas, professor of chemical engineering at the University of Connecticut.

Dr. Parnas’ research team will provide quarterly updates and undergo bi-annual reviews with the CARE board of directors. In addition, a comprehensive final report and presentation on the future of the initiative will be offered at the 2016 CARE National Meeting.