Valoration of the Synthetic Antioxidant Tris-(Diterbutyl-Phenol)-Phosphite (Irgafos P-168) from Industrial Wastewater and Application in Polypropylene Matrices to Minimize Its Thermal Degradation

Industrial wastewater from petrochemical processes is an essential source of the synthetic phenolic phosphite antioxidant (Irgafos P-168), which negatively affects the environment. For the determination and analysis of Irgafos P-168, DSC, HPLC-MS, and FTIR methodologies were used. Solid phase extraction (SPE) proved to be the best technique for extracting Irgafos from wastewater. HPLC-MS and SPE determined the repeatability, reproducibility, and linearity of the method and the SPE of the standards and samples. The relative standard deviations, errors, and correlation coefficients for the repeatability and reproducibility of the calibration curves were less than 4.4% and 4.2% and greater than 0.99955, respectively. The analysis of variance (ANOVA), using the Fisher method with confidence in 95% of the data, did not reveal significant differences between the mentioned parameters. The removal of the antioxidant from the wastewater by SPE showed recovery percentages higher than 91.03%, and the chemical characterization of this antioxidant by FTIR spectroscopy, DSC, TGA, and MS showed it to be structurally the same as the Irgafos P-168 molecule. The recovered Irgafos was added to the polypropylene matrix, significantly improving its oxidation times. An OIT analysis, performed using DSC, showed that the recovered Irgafos-blended polypropylene (PP) demonstrated oxidative degradation at 8 min. With the addition of the Irgafos, the oxidation time was 13 min. This increases the polypropylene’s useful life and minimizes the environmental impact of the wastewater.


Introduction
Industrial processes are some of the productive forces that have significantly contributed to the development of today's society, developing products and providing services that have improved our quality of life [1][2][3]. However, one of the most significant problems revolving around industrial production is the pollution that it generates, since in every industrial process and each of its unit operations, specific residues are developed, most of which are toxic and highly polluting [2,4,5]. One of the products whose highest consumption has increased in the last century is plastic [6], thanks to its durability and great versatility [7]. With this increase in production come several industry challenges related to waste treatment [7]. The petrochemical industry is a producer of plastics or polymers, and the industry uses additives to increase or improve the properties of the plastic, such This di-terbutyl-phenol derived from Irgafos P-168 is cytotoxic, and it directly and significantly increases the expression of the P53 gene in more than one cell line. In rats, it caused hepatic and renal toxicity, increased organ weight, and histopathological changes [52]. For these rodents, the no-harm concentrations were between 5.01 and 20.03 mg kg −1 day −1 . Irgafos P-168 (tris(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl) phosphite) has direct effects on human cells, such as preventing their growth, and can cause endocrine disruption [51], [53]. The impact of these molecules on health and the environment has been determined thanks to the existence of analytical quantification techniques and previous sample treatments. Irgafos P-168 has been effectively extracted using extraction techniques such as solid phase microextraction (SPME), liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) [54], solvent microextraction (MEPS), pressurized liquid fluid extraction (PLE) and dispersive solid phase extraction (dSPE) [55]. Some of the techniques used to quantify Irgafos P-168 in different processes and under other conditions have included mass spectrometry [56], pyrolysis-GC/MS [51], FTIR spectroscopy [57,58], DSC and TGA [59], NMR and UV-Vis [58], and HPLC [60][61][62].
In this investigation, we will evaluate the reliability of the Irgafos P-168 measurement method using HPLC. For this purpose, the repeatability, reproducibility, linearity, and recovery percentage are evaluated. The Irgafos molecule is quantified in industrial wastewater samples from polypropylene production plants. In this research, a methodology for extracting Irgafos from wastewater is proposed to minimize its environmental impact. The extracted Irgafos is purified and characterized using mass spectrometry, FTIR spectroscopy, TGA, and DSC. To guarantee the performance of this recovered Irgafos, it is added to a virgin PP matrix, and the resulting mixture is evaluated using FTIR spectroscopy, TGA, OIT and MFI.

Samples Collection
Samples were acquired at a polypropylene production facility that divides the production of the material into four steps ( Figure 2): arrival, polymerization, additivation, and granulation, which are described in eight steps. In step 1, the material is received; in In this investigation, we will evaluate the reliability of the Irgafos P-168 measurement method using HPLC. For this purpose, the repeatability, reproducibility, linearity, and recovery percentage are evaluated. The Irgafos molecule is quantified in industrial wastewater samples from polypropylene production plants. In this research, a methodology for extracting Irgafos from wastewater is proposed to minimize its environmental impact. The extracted Irgafos is purified and characterized using mass spectrometry, FTIR spectroscopy, TGA, and DSC. To guarantee the performance of this recovered Irgafos, it is added to a virgin PP matrix, and the resulting mixture is evaluated using FTIR spectroscopy, TGA, OIT and MFI.

Samples Collection
Samples were acquired at a polypropylene production facility that divides the production of the material into four steps ( Figure 2): arrival, polymerization, additivation, and granulation, which are described in eight steps. In step 1, the material is received; in step 2, the raw material enters the reactor. It is mixed with a catalyst (Ziegler-Natta) that reduces the activation energy for the polymerization reaction. In step 3, darkening the extrusion, in order to lower the temperature and produce a more uniform grain, water is employed in the polymer extrusion process. After the polymer is produced, it is transferred to a purging column (step 4) for purification. The additives that improve and complement the properties of the PP are then added (step 5). In step 6, the extrusion and pelletization of the PP mixture containing the additives occur. The samples of interest in this inquiry primarily originated from the condensates of the extrusion and deodorization procedures (step 6). Every 12 min for 4 h, 200 mL of samples were taken, and the samples were kept at 4 • C in an amber glass bottle. plement the properties of the PP are then added (step 5). In step 6, the extrusio pelletization of the PP mixture containing the additives occur. The samples of inter this inquiry primarily originated from the condensates of the extrusion and deodori procedures (step 6). Every 12 min for 4 h, 200 mL of samples were taken, and the sa were kept at 4 °C in an amber glass bottle.

Extraction System for Sample and Standard
The collected sample was subjected to filtration through a PTFE filter before extracted. Solid phase extraction (SPE) was performed with Strata-X tubes (33 μm). A of 15 mL of the sample was used, and the operating flow rate was 1.1 mL min −1 . Th conditioning was carried out with methanol and distilled water with an 80:20 ra MeOH: H2O. To carry out the elution of OA in SPE, 10 mL of acetonitrile (ACN) was as a solvent. The eluted extract from the SPE was dissolved in ACN to 1 mL and sepa by HPLC. When 500 mL of the extract was obtained, the pre-concentration proces repeated. The recovered solid was then dried (by recovering it with a stream of N subjected to FTIR spectroscopy, DSC, TGA, and HPLC-MS analysis. The obtained e product (Irgafos P-168) was stored in a controlled environment for later use in virg resin. Figure 3 represents the general outline of the SPE process. In the SPE proces residual water sample, which contained several residues of additives, such as Irga

Extraction System for Sample and Standard
The collected sample was subjected to filtration through a PTFE filter before being extracted. Solid phase extraction (SPE) was performed with Strata-X tubes (33 µm). A total of 15 mL of the sample was used, and the operating flow rate was 1.1 mL min −1 . The SPE conditioning was carried out with methanol and distilled water with an 80:20 ratio of MeOH: H 2 O. To carry out the elution of OA in SPE, 10 mL of acetonitrile (ACN) was used as a solvent. The eluted extract from the SPE was dissolved in ACN to 1 mL and separated by HPLC. When 500 mL of the extract was obtained, the pre-concentration process was repeated. The recovered solid was then dried (by recovering it with a stream of N 2 ) and subjected to FTIR spectroscopy, DSC, TGA, and HPLC-MS analysis. The obtained export product (Irgafos P-168) was stored in a controlled environment for later use in virgin PP resin. Figure 3 represents the general outline of the SPE process. In the SPE process, the residual water sample, which contained several residues of additives, such as Irgafos P-168 and even trace metals, was poured into the extraction cartridge. The extraction cartridge included a porous solid phase which, given its chemical structure, has a specific molecular region for non-polar substances. Although Irgafos has polarized regions in its chemical structure, the three Di-tert-butyl groups it has generate a steric hindrance, so the polar region does not have an affinity. This causes steric hindrance, so it has an affinity with the stationary phase of the extraction capsule. 168 and even trace metals, was poured into the extraction cartridge. The extraction cartridge included a porous solid phase which, given its chemical structure, has a specific molecular region for non-polar substances. Although Irgafos has polarized regions in its chemical structure, the three Di-tert-butyl groups it has generate a steric hindrance, so the polar region does not have an affinity. This causes steric hindrance, so it has an affinity with the stationary phase of the extraction capsule. This analysis was conducted using a Micromass Quattro II triple quadrupole mass spectrometer and an Agilent 1200 HPCL. The system includes a Lichrosorb RP-18 column (4.6 m × 200 mm × 5 μ), syringes of 5 and 10 mL, a precision balance, a degasser (G1322A), a pump (G1311A), an automatic sampler (G1313A), a column carrier (G1316A), and these components. The chromatographic modifications were made using the Irgafos P-168 solution, which was produced in ACN, as a starting point. The solvents ACN and H2O were combined in the following ratios to form the mobile phase: 83 and 17% (1 min, 15 mL/min); 93 and 7% (2 min, 2 mL/min); 95 and 5% (3.5 min, 3.5 mL/min); and 100 and 0% (8 min, 3.5 mL/min). The temperature in the column was 50 °C. Irgafos 168 was identified using MS and MS/MS fragments.

Reincorporation of Wastewater Additive in the PP Production Process
A virgin PP resin with no additives was used. It was separately combined with the recovered PP-Irgafos 168 samples and pure PP-Irgafos 168 samples to produce recovered PP-Irgafos 168 samples. The PP powder was premixed with 0.1 weight percent of recovered Irgafos P-168 and neat Irgafos 168. An ordinary Prodex Henschel 115JSS mixer was This analysis was conducted using a Micromass Quattro II triple quadrupole mass spectrometer and an Agilent 1200 HPCL. The system includes a Lichrosorb RP-18 column (4.6 m × 200 mm × 5 µ), syringes of 5 and 10 mL, a precision balance, a degasser (G1322A), a pump (G1311A), an automatic sampler (G1313A), a column carrier (G1316A), and these components. The chromatographic modifications were made using the Irgafos P-168 solution, which was produced in ACN, as a starting point. The solvents ACN and H 2 O were combined in the following ratios to form the mobile phase: 83 and 17% (1 min, 15 mL/min); 93 and 7% (2 min, 2 mL/min); 95 and 5% (3.5 min, 3.5 mL/min); and 100 and 0% (8 min, 3.5 mL/min). The temperature in the column was 50 • C. Irgafos 168 was identified using MS and MS/MS fragments.

Reincorporation of Wastewater Additive in the PP Production Process
A virgin PP resin with no additives was used. It was separately combined with the recovered PP-Irgafos 168 samples and pure PP-Irgafos 168 samples to produce recovered PP-Irgafos 168 samples. The PP powder was premixed with 0.1 weight percent of recovered Irgafos P-168 and neat Irgafos 168. An ordinary Prodex Henschel 115JSS mixer was used for this process, running at 800 revolutions per minute for 7 min. Melt extrusion was used for mixing with a Welex-200 24.1 extruder. (see Figure 4) The extruder has five heating zones that guaranteed the correct homogenization of the PP and the additive mixtures. The working temperatures of the extruder were 190, 195, 200, 210, and 220 • C. used for this process, running at 800 revolutions per minute for 7 min. Melt extrusion w used for mixing with a Welex-200 24.1 extruder. (see Figure 4) The extruder has five he ing zones that guaranteed the correct homogenization of the PP and the additive mixtur The working temperatures of the extruder were 190, 195, 200, 210, and 220 °C. The PP solid produced by the extruder die was granulated, and these samples w spiked with 1000 mg kg −1 of recovered Irgafos P-168 and 1000 mg kg −1 of pure Irgafos 168. Irgafos P-168 was diluted in ACN to a 500 mg/L to create a standard, and 5 mL of t solution was then dissolved in 100 mL to create a 25 mg/L solution.

Heat Flux Characterization System (DSC)
To ascertain the samples' oxidation induction time (OIT), a DSC Q2000 V24.11 Bu 124 device was used for calorimetric analysis. Results were obtained using a 6.1 mg sa ple under nitrogen and oxygen ambient conditions. The experiment was conducted to vestigate the material's oxidation and volatility effects. The sample was first heated i thermally for 5 min at 60 °C and then for 20 min at 200 °C in a nitrogen atmosphere mov at 50 mL/min. The atmosphere was then altered to 50 mL/min of airflow and 30 min oxidation at 200 °C. It was feasible to determine the OIT value, which corresponds to instant at which the change in pitch happens, due to this change in atmosphere's reve tion of a difference in the slope of the exothermic heat.

Spectrometric Characterization System
For the spectrometric characterization, Nicolet 6700 reference infrared spectrosco equipment was used, with readings between 400 and 600 cm −1 and a resolution of 2 cm (reflection mode). The PP solid produced by the extruder die was granulated, and these samples were spiked with 1000 mg kg −1 of recovered Irgafos P-168 and 1000 mg kg −1 of pure Irgafos P-168. Irgafos P-168 was diluted in ACN to a 500 mg/L to create a standard, and 5 mL of this solution was then dissolved in 100 mL to create a 25 mg/L solution.

Heat Flux Characterization System (DSC)
To ascertain the samples' oxidation induction time (OIT), a DSC Q2000 V24.11 Build 124 device was used for calorimetric analysis. Results were obtained using a 6.1 mg sample under nitrogen and oxygen ambient conditions. The experiment was conducted to investigate the material's oxidation and volatility effects. The sample was first heated isothermally for 5 min at 60 • C and then for 20 min at 200 • C in a nitrogen atmosphere moving at 50 mL/min. The atmosphere was then altered to 50 mL/min of airflow and 30 min of oxidation at 200 • C. It was feasible to determine the OIT value, which corresponds to the instant at which the change in pitch happens, due to this change in atmosphere's revelation of a difference in the slope of the exothermic heat.

Spectrometric Characterization System
For the spectrometric characterization, Nicolet 6700 reference infrared spectroscopy equipment was used, with readings between 400 and 600 cm −1 and a resolution of 2 cm −1 (reflection mode).

Thermogravimetric Characterization System
Using a Perkin Elmer TGA7 thermobalance and a N 2 environment flowing at a rate of 50 mL/min, a TGA was conducted. The temperature at which there was a 5% mass loss served as the benchmark for the initial degradation temperature, and the DTG curve served as the benchmark for the maximum degradation temperature.

Melt Flow Index (MFI)
A Tinius Olsen MP1200 plastometer was used to determine the MFI. The working temperature inside the equipment cylinder was 230 • C, and a 2.16 kg piston was used to move the molten material.

Standards Calibration Curve for Irgafos P-168
We proceeded to establish the repeatability and reproducibility of the quantification method in which the concentration of the Irgafos P-168 recovered using the HPLC-MS method would be measured. For this, a calibration curve was generated with known amounts of concentrations between 0 and 5000 ppm. To carry out this calibration and guarantee its reliability, seven different samples were analyzed for five days by the same analyst. The tests were also carried out with five various analysts, each analyzing seven samples in different concentrations, as shown in Table 1. The maximum relative standard deviations for repeatability and reproducibility were 3% and 4.4%, respectively, and their respective maximum errors were 4.2% and 2.6%. The acceptance value for validating the calibration of the deviation obtained with respect to the expected values was less than 15% [62]; in addition, an ANOVA was applied using the Fisher grouping method, with which it was possible to establish that the difference in the measurements was not significant. The reliability of the process was established with a confidence of 95%, and a significance value of α = 0.05 was established. Figure 2 shows the confidence intervals, comparing pairs of data columns for the same analyst ( Figure 5a) and for different analysts (Figure 5b). These are the repeatability and reproducibility. The semi-continuous line perpendicular to all intervals indicates the position of zero in a break. When this semi-continuous line intersects with any of the intervals, it indicates that zero belongs to the gap, showing that there are no appreciable differences between the data pairs being examined. Therefore, it is concluded that there are no significant differences. Consequently, the method is repeatable and reproducible.
using the Fisher grouping method, with which it was possible to establish that the d ence in the measurements was not significant. The reliability of the process was e lished with a confidence of 95%, and a significance value of α = 0.05 was established ure 2 shows the confidence intervals, comparing pairs of data columns for the same lyst ( Figure 5a) and for different analysts (Figure 5b). These are the repeatability an producibility. The semi-continuous line perpendicular to all intervals indicates the tion of zero in a break. When this semi-continuous line intersects with any of the inter it indicates that zero belongs to the gap, showing that there are no appreciable differe between the data pairs being examined. Therefore, it is concluded that there are no si icant differences. Consequently, the method is repeatable and reproducible.

SPE of Standards with Acetonitrile
The values for the variables studied in the extraction are presented in Table 2. (Table 2), the maximum errors for repeatability and reproducibility were 4.8 % and 5 respectively, the maximum relative standard deviations of repeatability and reprodu ity were 3.2 % and 2.5%, and the complete extractions were 96% and 98%.

SPE of Standards with Acetonitrile
The values for the variables studied in the extraction are presented in Table 2. Here (Table 2), the maximum errors for repeatability and reproducibility were 4.8 % and 5.3 %, respectively, the maximum relative standard deviations of repeatability and reproducibility were 3.2 % and 2.5%, and the complete extractions were 96% and 98%. Figure 6 shows the confidence intervals, comparing pairs of data columns for the same analyst (Figure 6a) and for different analysts (Figure 6b), i.e., the repeatability and reproducibility of the SPE. The significance of the difference for the intraday and interday data of the SPE was also analyzed using the Fisher method, with an p = 0.05 value and 95% confidence. Under the same analysis made in Section 3.1, Figure 6a,b, which show the repeatability and reproducibility of the standards extraction, respectively, show that there are no appreciable variances in the data.

Linearity Analysis for the Calibration Curve and SPE of Standards
Using Origin, the average interday and intraday data were plotted against theoretical concentrations for the calibration curve and SPE. Each underwent a linear regression to obtain the parameters of R 2 and the correlation coefficient (r). Figure 7a,b show the linear regressions for the calibration curve, in which intraday and interday values of 0.99966 and 0.99997 were obtained for R 2 and 0.99983 and 0.99999 were obtained for the correlation coefficient. Figure 7c,d provide the same information as the previous paragraphs for the SPE unemployment. Here, intraday and interday values of 0.99999 and 0.99985 for R2 and 0.99999 and 0.99993 for the correlation coefficient were obtained.

Analysis of Concentration and Recovery of Irgafos 168 in Samples
To analyze the recovered Irgafos P-168, 40 samples were taken over 40 consecutive days. These samples were subjected to analysis by five different analysts on the same day, and the data are listed in Table 3. From the data, we can see that the RSDs were less than 15%; more specifically, the maximum was 4.7%, and the concentration of the recovered samples was in all cases was greater than 91.03%. The highest concentration, which was taken on day 26, was 99.38%, with a value average of 2548 ppm. Molecules 2023, 28, x FOR PEER REVIEW 10 of 24

Linearity Analysis for the Calibration Curve and SPE of Standards.
Using Origin, the average interday and intraday data were plotted against theoretical concentrations for the calibration curve and SPE. Each underwent a linear regression to obtain the parameters of R 2 and the correlation coefficient (r). Figure 7a,b show the linear regressions for the calibration curve, in which intraday and interday values of 0.99966 and 0.99997 were obtained for R 2 and 0.99983 and 0.99999 were obtained for the correlation coefficient. Figure 7c,d provide the same information as the previous paragraphs for the SPE unemployment. Here, intraday and interday values of 0.99999 and 0.99985 for R2 and 0.99999 and 0.99993 for the correlation coefficient were obtained.    In order to assess the model's error, a linear regression was conducted. The results showed a proportionate association between the concentration determined by the analysts and the concentration of the Irgafos P-168 retrieved. As shown graphically in Figure 8, the model is predictive since it has an R 2 of 0.99955 and a correlation coefficient of 0.99978.

FTIR Analysis of the Recovered Irgafos
Samples of Irgafos recovered from the wastewater were taken for analysis by FTIR spectroscopy. The results indicated that the recovered Irgafos P-168 presented significant similarities with the spectrum of the compound in its pure state, as shown in Figure 9, suggesting a high purity of the recovered Irgafos P-168. Some differences are noted in the spectra due to noise from the equipment and the low concentrations of the samples used in this equipment.
In analyzing the spectrogram graph corresponding to the pure and recovered Irgafos P-168, an absorption band is found between 3000 and 2800 cm −1 that is related to the alcohol and ester groups. Precisely at 2868 cm −1 , a band of overlapping absorption corresponds to CH. At 2961 cm −1 , there is another band corresponding to CH 3 . In the Irgafos P-168, the aromatic C=C bond is tenuously situated at 1602 cm −1 and 1491 cm −1 . At 1398 cm −1 , there is a corresponding deformed CH and CH 3 absorption band. Finally, at 1212 cm −1 , there is a band of the phosphite group (C-O-P. All these particularities are typical of Irgafos P-168 [63].

Analysis of Concentration and Recovery of Irgafos 168 in Samples
To analyze the recovered Irgafos P-168, 40 samples were taken over 40 consecutive days. These samples were subjected to analysis by five different analysts on the same day, and the data are listed in Table 3. From the data, we can see that the RSDs were less than 15%; more specifically, the maximum was 4.7%, and the concentration of the recovered samples was in all cases was greater than 91.03%. The highest concentration, which was taken on day 26, was 99.38%, with a value average of 2548 ppm.

FTIR Analysis of the Recovered Irgafos
Samples of Irgafos recovered from the wastewater were taken for analysis by FTIR spectroscopy. The results indicated that the recovered Irgafos P-168 presented significant similarities with the spectrum of the compound in its pure state, as shown in Figure 9, suggesting a high purity of the recovered Irgafos P-168. Some differences are noted in the

FTIR Analysis of the Recovered Irgafos
Samples of Irgafos recovered from the wastewater were taken for analysis by FTIR spectroscopy. The results indicated that the recovered Irgafos P-168 presented significant similarities with the spectrum of the compound in its pure state, as shown in Figure 9, suggesting a high purity of the recovered Irgafos P-168. Some differences are noted in the spectra due to noise from the equipment and the low concentrations of the samples used in this equipment. In analyzing the spectrogram graph corresponding to the pure and recovered Irgafos P-168, an absorption band is found between 3000 and 2800 cm −1 that is related to the

TGA Analysis of the Recovered Irgafos
The physicochemical properties of the recovered material were analyzed by measuring its thermal stability. To measure its thermal decomposition point, scanning thermography tests were carried out on the Irgafos P-168 that was recovered after use in the PP process. Temperature changes were applied to the recovered and pure Irgafos samples at a rate of roughly 0.3 • C/s. It was observed that the thermal resistance of both samples was quite similar since in both cases, the mass did not vary substantially until it reached 280 • C. After this point, it began to decay; the results obtained suggest that the recovery process of the Irgafos P-168 did not significantly affect its thermal stability as its thermal decomposition point remained similar to that of pure Irgafos P-168, as can be seen in Figure 10.

TGA Analysis of the Recovered Irgafos
The physicochemical properties of the recovered material were analyzed by measuring its thermal stability. To measure its thermal decomposition point, scanning thermography tests were carried out on the Irgafos P-168 that was recovered after use in the PP process. Temperature changes were applied to the recovered and pure Irgafos samples at a rate of roughly 0.3 °C/s. It was observed that the thermal resistance of both samples was quite similar since in both cases, the mass did not vary substantially until it reached 280 °C. After this point, it began to decay; the results obtained suggest that the recovery process of the Irgafos P-168 did not significantly affect its thermal stability as its thermal decomposition point remained similar to that of pure Irgafos P-168, as can be seen in Figure  10. To achieve a clearer vision of the similarity of the data, the derivative of the previous data was graphed (Figure 11) to show the similarity of the data. In these graphs, it can be seen that both the recovered Irgafos P-168 and the pure Irgafos P-168 demonstrate a change in the inflection point of the thermal curve at the same value, approximately 425 To achieve a clearer vision of the similarity of the data, the derivative of the previous data was graphed (Figure 11) to show the similarity of the data. In these graphs, it can be seen that both the recovered Irgafos P-168 and the pure Irgafos P-168 demonstrate a change in the inflection point of the thermal curve at the same value, approximately 425 • C.  Table 4 shows the mass of the ions and molecules obtained from the fragmentation of Irgafos P-168 by the detection technique of mass spectrometry coupled with TGA. Figure 12 shows the chemical and molecular structure of some of the ions generated from the fragmentation of the Irgafos P-168A molecular ion with a mass of 206; M+ can be seen in the 2,4-DTBP mass spectrum. The molecular ion at m/z 191 changes into an intense fragment ion after losing the methyl group. The phosphite mass spectrum shows the presence of the M+ molecular ion, and the loss of the 2,4-ditest group from the molecular ion is assumed to be butyl phenoxy, which produces the peak with a maximum intensity at m/z 441. It was then discovered that the sharp peak at m/z 647 in the phosphite spectrum is caused by a fragment ion created when the M+ molecular ion lost a methyl group. They contain the compound 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol in the phosphite spectrum at m/z 206. The fragment ions associated with the tropylium ion at m/z 91 and the tert-butyl fragment at m/z 57 are present in all ranges.   Table 4 shows the mass of the ions and molecules obtained from the fragmentation of Irgafos P-168 by the detection technique of mass spectrometry coupled with TGA. Figure 12 shows the chemical and molecular structure of some of the ions generated from the fragmentation of the Irgafos P-168A molecular ion with a mass of 206; M+ can be seen in the 2,4-DTBP mass spectrum. The molecular ion at m/z 191 changes into an intense fragment ion after losing the methyl group. The phosphite mass spectrum shows the presence of the M+ molecular ion, and the loss of the 2,4-ditest group from the molecular ion is assumed to be butyl phenoxy, which produces the peak with a maximum intensity at m/z 441. It was then discovered that the sharp peak at m/z 647 in the phosphite spectrum is caused by a fragment ion created when the M+ molecular ion lost a methyl group. They contain the compound 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol in the phosphite spectrum at m/z 206. The fragment ions associated with the tropylium ion at m/z 91 and the tert-butyl fragment at m/z 57 are present in all ranges.

DSC Analysis of the Recovered Irgafos
The purity of a chemical compound such as Irgafos P-168 can be analyzed using va ious scientific techniques. In this case, DSC was used to assess the purity of the Irgaf recovered from wastewater. In the test carried out, a temperature change was applied a rate of 19.7 °C/min. The data obtained indicated that the melting point of the sample w close to 187 °C, and it reached a maximum point of heat absorption of approximately mW. When comparing these results with those obtained by subjecting the compound its pure state to the same conditions, it was possible to conclude that the purity of t recovered Irgafos is still relatively high, given the similarity of the data (see Figure 13).

DSC Analysis of the Recovered Irgafos
The purity of a chemical compound such as Irgafos P-168 can be analyzed using various scientific techniques. In this case, DSC was used to assess the purity of the Irgafos recovered from wastewater. In the test carried out, a temperature change was applied at a rate of 19.7 • C/min. The data obtained indicated that the melting point of the sample was close to 187 • C, and it reached a maximum point of heat absorption of approximately 40 mW. When comparing these results with those obtained by subjecting the compound in its pure state to the same conditions, it was possible to conclude that the purity of the recovered Irgafos is still relatively high, given the similarity of the data (see Figure 13).

FTIR Analysis of PP Plus Pure Irgafos P-168 and PP Plus Recovered Irgafos P-168
To generate the most accurate analysis possible, the reuse of the recovered Irgafos P-168 in the production of polypropylene was carried out to compare the characteristics of the final material with both the pure and the recovered additive.
Both materials were subjected to FTIR spectroscopy studies (see Figura 14) with resultant graphs. We can see that the absorbance regions are the same for both materials, meaning that the performance of P-168 is high since the characteristics of the obtained PP are the same as those obtained with the pure additive. The observed spectra ( Figure 14) display two bands between 1305 and 1055 cm −1 that correspond to the symmetric and asymmetric stretches of the ester group of Irgafos P-168 and a peak at roughly 1737 cm −1 that is suggestive of the ester group (C=O) present in the structure of the Irgafos P-168. Between 2953 and 2975 cm −1 , one can see the typical CH 3 group band. Irgafos P-168's chemical composition also reveals these classes. Another indication of the existence of aromatic groups in the spectrum is the relative strength of the absorption, which is typical of the spectra of aromatic compounds and occurs in the range of 1450-1500 cm −1 .

FTIR Analysis of PP Plus Pure Irgafos P-168 and PP Plus Recovered Irgafos P-168
To generate the most accurate analysis possible, the reuse of the recovered Irgafos P-168 in the production of polypropylene was carried out to compare the characteristics of the final material with both the pure and the recovered additive.
Both materials were subjected to FTIR spectroscopy studies (see Figura 14) with resultant graphs. We can see that the absorbance regions are the same for both materials, meaning that the performance of P-168 is high since the characteristics of the obtained PP are the same as those obtained with the pure additive. The observed spectra ( Figure 14) display two bands between 1305 and 1055 cm −1 that correspond to the symmetric and asymmetric stretches of the ester group of Irgafos P-168 and a peak at roughly 1737 cm −1 that is suggestive of the ester group (C=O) present in the structure of the Irgafos P-168. Between 2953 and 2975 cm −1 , one can see the typical CH3 group band. Irgafos P-168's chemical composition also reveals these classes. Another indication of the existence of aromatic groups in the spectrum is the relative strength of the absorption, which is typical of the spectra of aromatic compounds and occurs in the range of 1450-1500 cm −1 .

Melt Flow Index (MFI) and Molecular Weight Distribution
The thermal properties of polypropylene are some of the most critical qualities for its processing and the evaluation of multiple changes that can affect its quality during application. Using the MFI (see Figure 15), we can estimate the melt processing of the PP; the higher the MFI values, the higher the melt flowability, and the lower the MFI values, the

Melt Flow Index (MFI) and Molecular Weight Distribution
The thermal properties of polypropylene are some of the most critical qualities for its processing and the evaluation of multiple changes that can affect its quality during application. Using the MFI (see Figure 15), we can estimate the melt processing of the PP; the higher the MFI values, the higher the melt flowability, and the lower the MFI values, the lower the melt flowability of the PP. The MFI measurements of each sample were performed in triplicate. The MFI results are shown in Figure 15, and it can be seen that the MFI of the PP decreased with the dosage of the recovered P-168 and pure P-168. Concentrations of 0.1% of pure or recovered P-168 significantly improve the MFI. Without additives, PP has an MFI of 6.5. This MFI decreased to 4.1 and 4.3 with the addition of pure P-168 and recovered P-168, respectively.
The Bramner equation shows the relationship between the MFI and the average molecular weight (Mw). In Figure 15, an inverse relationship between the MFI and Mw is observed. Samples with an MFI of 6.5, 4.1, and 4.3 g/10 min presented Mw values of 46,961, 50, 870, and 50,466 kDaltons. It was observed that the addition of Irgafos P-168 stabilized the PP, preventing its complete degradation, decreasing its fluidity, and increasing its molecular weight distribution.

OIT
To determine the oxidation time, the changes in the slope of the curve generated by the DSC concerning the expected time and the heat flux were taken into account. As shown in Figure 16, an endothermic peak was observed, but with time and the oxygen atmosphere, the slope of the curves changed, revealing a new exothermic behavior consistent with oxidation. It can be seen that the non-stabilized PP had a significantly shorter oxidation time than the PP with additives. The OIT value for the unstabilized PP was 0.9 min, taking the change in slope at 17.3 min as reference, and the OIT for pure PP + P-168 and recovered PP + P-168 were 8 and 7.8 min, respectively. This demonstrates how the presence of P-168 minimizes the oxidation processes of PP and improves its thermal stability due to its coupling in the polymeric matrix.
The Bramner equation shows the relationship between the MFI and the average molecular weight (Mw). In Figure 15, an inverse relationship between the MFI and Mw is observed. Samples with an MFI of 6.5, 4.1, and 4.3 g/10 min presented Mw values of 46,961, 50, 870, and 50,466 kDaltons. It was observed that the addition of Irgafos P-168 stabilized the PP, preventing its complete degradation, decreasing its fluidity, and increasing its molecular weight distribution.

OIT
To determine the oxidation time, the changes in the slope of the curve generated by the DSC concerning the expected time and the heat flux were taken into account. As shown in Figure 16, an endothermic peak was observed, but with time and the oxygen atmosphere, the slope of the curves changed, revealing a new exothermic behavior consistent with oxidation. It can be seen that the non-stabilized PP had a significantly shorter oxidation time than the PP with additives. The OIT value for the unstabilized PP was 0.9 min, taking the change in slope at 17.3 min as reference, and the OIT for pure PP + P-168 and recovered PP + P-168 were 8 and 7.8 min, respectively. This demonstrates how the presence of P-168 minimizes the oxidation processes of PP and improves its thermal stability due to its coupling in the polymeric matrix.

Conclusions
According to the findings of this study, it is possible to recover Irgafos P-168 with a high degree of purity in amounts greater than 91.03%, and its integration into the PP matrix enhances the material's thermal and thermo-oxidative stability. Without thermal stabilizers, PP cannot be used since it would entirely deteriorate during the extrusion process. As a result, the recovery of this Irgafos P-168 at such high purity levels exemplifies a critical methodology for use in the industrial sector, promotes the use of sustainable raw materials, and makes a significant contribution to the circular economy of the PP polymer industry.