Method of processing a polycondensate in a multi-screw extruder

Abstract

A method for processing a polycondensate to give a granulate formed as pellets is disclosed, whereby the polycondensate is fused in the course of the method and then later resolidified. In an exemplary method, a total time during which the temperature of the polycondensate is above the melting point thereof is less than about 60 seconds. This method can be carried out by a multi-shaft extruder, whereby the degrassing and/or drying of the polycondensate in the solid state occurs at a pressure below atmospheric pressure and/or with addition of an inert gas. The time period, during which the polycondensate remains in the extruder, after being melted therein, amounts to, for example, less than about 15 seconds.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.