a solid polymer is recovered from a solution by the addition of a water - based solution containing a surfactant . the solutions are mixed and heated , so that the organic solvent containing the polymer is driven off , and the solid polymer can be recovered . the solid polymer is generally recovered in the form of small particles , which can be easily moved , as part of a slurry , and then dried . the process produces no hazardous waste . the by - products of the process can be re - used or discarded through ordinary channels .