1
|
Sun Z, Wang K, Lin Q, Guo W, Chen M, Chen C, Zhang C, Fei J, Zhu Y, Li J, Liu Y, He H, Cao Y. Value-Added Upcycling of PET to 1,4-Cyclohexanedimethanol by a Hydrogenation/Hydrogenolysis Relay Catalysis. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202408561. [PMID: 38923654 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202408561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
We present an innovative process for directly transforming poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), a polymer extensively used in food and beverage packaging, into trans-isomer-enriched 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol (CHDM), a key ingredient in advanced specialty polymers. Our approach leverages a dual-catalyst system featuring palladium on reduced graphene oxide (Pd/r-GO) and oxalate-gel-derived copper-zinc oxide (og-CuZn), utilizing hydrogenation/hydrogenolysis relay catalysis. This method efficiently transforms PET into polyethylene-1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylate (PECHD), which is then converted into CHDM with an impressive overall yield of 95 % in a two-stage process. Our process effectively handles various post-consumer PET plastics, converting them into CHDM with yields between 78 % and 89 % across different substrates. Additionally, we demonstrate the applicability and scalability of this approach through a temperature-programmed three-stage relay process on a 10-gram scale, which results in purified CHDM with an isolated yield of 87 % and a notably higher trans/cis ratio of up to 4.09/1, far exceeding that of commercially available CHDM. This research not only provides a viable route for repurposing PET waste but also enhances the control of selectivity patterns in multistage relay catalysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zehui Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Kaizhi Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Qiang Lin
- SINOPEC, Beijing Research Institute of Chemical Industry Co. Ltd. Yanshan Branch
| | - Wendi Guo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Mugeng Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Jiachen Fei
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Yifeng Zhu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Jinbing Li
- SINOPEC, Beijing Research Institute of Chemical Industry Co. Ltd. Yanshan Branch
| | - Yongmei Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Heyong He
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Yong Cao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Watanabe Y, Fukushima K, Kato T. Degradation of a Wholly Aromatic Main-Chain Thermotropic Liquid-Crystalline Polymer Mediated by Superbases. JACS AU 2024; 4:2944-2956. [PMID: 39211589 PMCID: PMC11350567 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.4c00286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Plastic circular economy needs to be established to solve environmental issues related to plastic waste. Superengineering plastics such as liquid-crystalline (LC) polymers exhibit excellent thermal and mechanical properties, resulting in poor degradability in natural environment. Herein, we report the degradation of a wholly aromatic thermotropic LC polyester, poly(4-hydroxybenzoic acid-co-6-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid) (Vectra) mediated by superbases. Methanolysis and hydrolysis of Vectra yield its monomeric compounds, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, 6-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid, and their methyl esters. Among several transesterification catalysts explored, 1,5,7-triazabicylco[4.4.0]dec-5-ene (TBD) is the most suitable for the methanolysis of Vectra. The complete degradation of Vectra is achieved under reflux. The degradation proceeds heterogeneously via a surface erosion mechanism, preferentially starting from less chain-packed regions. Model reactions using aryl arylates reveal that monomeric compound-superbase complexes could mediate the cleavage of the ester bonds in both homogeneous and heterogeneous systems. The ester bonds of Vectra have inherent poor reactivity and are protected by oriented robust structures of the polymer. Nevertheless, the superbases enable the degradation of Vectra via the cleavage of the ester bonds by methanol. These outcomes open the way for recycling high-performance plastics as well as demonstrate the feasibility of recovering precious aromatic compounds from plastic waste as aromatic feedstock.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuya Watanabe
- Department
of Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Kazuki Fukushima
- Department
of Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
- Japan
Science and Technology Agency (JST), PRESTO, Honcho, Kawaguchi, Saitama 332-0012, Japan
| | - Takashi Kato
- Department
of Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
- Research
Initiative for Supra-Materials, Shinshu
University, Wakasato, Nagano 380-8553, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Du M, Xue R, Yuan W, Cheng Y, Cui Z, Dong W, Qiu B. Tandem Integration of Biological and Electrochemical Catalysis for Efficient Polyester Upcycling under Ambient Conditions. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:9768-9775. [PMID: 39057181 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c02966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Excessive production of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) poses an ecological challenge, which necessitates developing technologies to extract the values from end-of-life PET. Upcycling has proven effective in addressing the low profitability of current recycling strategies, yet existing upcycling technologies operate under energy-intensive conditions. Here we report a cascade strategy to steer the transformation of PET waste into glycolate in an overall yield of 92.6% under ambient conditions. The cascade approach involves setting up a robust hydrolase with 95.6% PET depolymerization into ethylene glycol (EG) monomer within 12 h, followed by an electrochemical process initiated by a CO-tolerant Pd/Ni(OH)2 catalyst to convert the EG intermediate into glycolate with high Faradaic efficiency of 97.5%. Techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment indicate that, compared with the widely adopted electrochemical technology that heavily relies on alkaline pretreatment for PET depolymerization, our designed enzymatic-electrochemical approach offers a cost-effective and low-carbon pathway to upgrade PET.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Du
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pesticide Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Rui Xue
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, China
| | - Wenfang Yuan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pesticide Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yun Cheng
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, China
| | - Zhongli Cui
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Environmental Microbiology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Weiliang Dong
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211800, China
| | - Bocheng Qiu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pesticide Sciences, Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fang T, Jiang W, Zheng T, Yao X, Zhu W. Catalyst- and Solvent-Free Upcycling of Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate) Waste to Biodegradable Plastics. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2403728. [PMID: 39097946 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202403728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is an important polymer with annual output second only to polyethylene. Due to its low biodegradability, a large amount of PET is recycled for sustainable development. However, current strategies for PET recycling are limited by low added value or small product scale. It is urgent to make a breakthrough on the principle of PET macromolecular reaction and efficiently prepare products with high added value and wide applications. Here, the catalyst- and solvent-free synthesis of biodegradable plastics are reported through novel carboxyl-ester transesterification between PET waste and bio-based hydrogenated dimer acid (HDA), which can directly substitute some terephthalic acid (TPA) units in PET chain by HDA unit. This macromolecular reaction can be facilely carried out on current equipment in the polyester industry without any additional catalyst and solvent, thus enabling low-cost and large-scale production. Furthermore, the product semi-bio-based copolyester shows excellent mechanical properties, regulable flexibility and good biodegradability, which is expected to substitute poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) plastic as high value-added biodegradable materials. This work provides an environmental-friendly and economic strategy for the large-scale upcycling of PET waste.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianxiang Fang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Weipo Jiang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Tengfei Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xuxia Yao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Weipu Zhu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Shanxi-Zheda Institute of Advanced Materials and Chemical Engineering, Taiyuan, 030000, China
- Key Laboratory of Adsorption and Separation Materials & Technologies of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhang N, Wang Y, Liu M, Cheng T, Xing Z, Li Z, Zhou W. Hollow Cu 2-xS@NiFe Layered Double Hydroxide Core-Shell S-Scheme Heterojunctions with Broad-Spectrum Response and Enhanced Photothermal-Photocatalytic Performance. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2400652. [PMID: 38552224 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202400652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Designing a reasonable heterojunction is an efficient path to improve the separation of photogenerated charges and enhance photocatalytic activity. In this study, Cu2-xS@NiFe-LDH hollow nanoboxes with core-shell structure are successfully prepared. The results show that Cu2-xS@NiFe-LDH with broad-spectrum response has good photothermal and photocatalytic activity, and the photocatalytic activity and stability of the catalyst are enhanced by the establishment of unique hollow structure and core-shell heterojunction structure. Transient PL spectra (TRPL) indicates that constructing Cu2-xS@NiFe-LDH heterojunction can prolong carrier lifetime obviously. Cu2-xS@NiFe-LDH shows a high photocatalytic hydrogen production efficiency (5176.93 µmol h-1 g-1), and tetracycline degradation efficiency (98.3%), and its hydrogen production rate is ≈10-12 times that of pure Cu2-xS and NiFe-LDH. In situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and electron spin resonance (ESR) provide proofs of the S-scheme electron transfer path. The S-scheme heterojunction achieves high spatial charge separation and exhibits strong photoredox ability, thus improving the photocatalytic performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhang
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology, Heilongjiang University, Harbin, 150080, P. R. China
| | - Yichao Wang
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology, Heilongjiang University, Harbin, 150080, P. R. China
| | - Meijie Liu
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology, Heilongjiang University, Harbin, 150080, P. R. China
| | - Tao Cheng
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology, Heilongjiang University, Harbin, 150080, P. R. China
| | - Zipeng Xing
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology, Heilongjiang University, Harbin, 150080, P. R. China
| | - Zhenzi Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology, (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, P. R. China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology, (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cao J, Liang H, Yang J, Zhu Z, Deng J, Li X, Elimelech M, Lu X. Depolymerization mechanisms and closed-loop assessment in polyester waste recycling. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6266. [PMID: 39048542 PMCID: PMC11269573 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50702-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcoholysis of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) waste to produce monomers, including methanolysis to yield dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) and glycolysis to generate bis-2-hydroxyethyl terephthalate (BHET), is a promising strategy in PET waste management. Here, we introduce an efficient PET-alcoholysis approach utilizing an oxygen-vacancy (Vo)-rich catalyst under air, achieving space time yield (STY) of 505.2 gDMT·gcat-1·h-1 and 957.1 gBHET·gcat-1·h-1, these results represent 51-fold and 28-fold performance enhancements compared to reactions conducted under N2. In situ spectroscopy, in combination with density functional theory calculations, elucidates the reaction pathways of PET depolymerization. The process involves O2-assisted activation of CH3OH to form CH3OH* and OOH* species at Vo-Zn2+-O-Fe3+ sites, highlighting the critical role of Vo-Zn2+-O-Fe3+ sites in ester bond activation and C-O bond cleavage. Moreover, a life cycle assessment demonstrates the viability of our approach in closed-loop recycling, achieving 56.0% energy savings and 44.5% reduction in greenhouse-gas emissions. Notably, utilizing PET textile scrap further leads to 58.4% reduction in initial total operating costs. This research offers a sustainable solution to the challenge of PET waste accumulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Cao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Huaxing Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomass Clean Energy, Department of Applied Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhiyang Zhu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jin Deng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomass Clean Energy, Department of Applied Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Xiaodong Li
- Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Weinberg 2, Halle, Germany.
| | - Menachem Elimelech
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Xinglin Lu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhao Y, Zhang H, Wu F, Li R, Tang M, Wang Y, Zeng W, Han B, Liu Z. Hydroxyl carboxylate anion catalyzed depolymerization of biopolyesters and transformation to chemicals. Chem Sci 2024; 15:10892-10899. [PMID: 39027286 PMCID: PMC11253192 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc02533d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Upcycling biopolyesters (e.g., polyglycolic acid, PGA) into chemicals is an interesting and challenging topic. Herein, we report a novel protocol to upgrade biopolyesters derived from hydroxyl carboxylic acids over ionic liquids with a hydroxyl carboxylate anion (e.g., glycolate, lactate) into various chemicals under metal-free conditions. It is found that as hydrogen-bond donors and acceptors, hydroxyl carboxylate anions can readily activate the ester group via hydrogen bonding and decompose biopolyesters via autocatalyzed-transesterification to form hydroxyl carboxylate anion-based intermediates. These intermediates can react with various nucleophiles (e.g. H2O, methanol, amines and hydrazine) to access the corresponding acids, esters and amides under mild conditions (e.g., 40 °C). For example, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium glycolate can achieve complete transformation of PGA into various chemicals such as glycolic acid, alkyl glycolates, 2-hydroxy amides, 2-(hydroxymethyl)benzimidazole, and 1,3-benzothiazol-2-ylmethanol in excellent yields via hydrolysis, alcoholysis and aminolysis, respectively. This protocol is simple, green, and highly efficient, which opens a novel way to upcycle biopolyesters to useful chemicals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Zhao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics Department, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for Carbon Neutral Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100190 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics Department, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for Carbon Neutral Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100190 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Fengtian Wu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics Department, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for Carbon Neutral Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100190 China
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Polymer Micro/Nano Manufacturing and Devices, Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry, East China University of Technology Economic Development Zone, Guanglan Avenue 418 Nanchang 330013 China
| | - Rongxiang Li
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics Department, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for Carbon Neutral Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100190 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Minhao Tang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics Department, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for Carbon Neutral Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100190 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Yusi Wang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics Department, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for Carbon Neutral Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100190 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Wei Zeng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics Department, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for Carbon Neutral Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100190 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Buxing Han
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics Department, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for Carbon Neutral Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100190 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Zhimin Liu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics Department, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for Carbon Neutral Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100190 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Qin L, Li X, Ren G, Yuan R, Wang X, Hu Z, Ye C, Zou Y, Ding P, Zhang H, Cai Q. Closed-Loop Polymer-to-Polymer Upcycling of Waste Poly (Ethylene Terephthalate) into Biodegradable and Programmable Materials. CHEMSUSCHEM 2024; 17:e202301781. [PMID: 38409634 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202301781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), extensively employed in bottles, film, and fiber manufacture, has generated persistent environmental contamination due to its non-degradable nature. The resolution of this issue requires the conversion of waste PET into valuable products, often achieved through depolymerization into monomers. However, the laborious purification procedures involved in the extraction of monomers pose challenges and constraints on the complete utilization of PET. Herein, a strategy is demonstrated for the polymer-to-polymer upcycling of waste PET into high-value biodegradable and programmable materials named PEXT. This process involves reversible transesterifications dependent on ester bonds, wherein commercially available X-monomers from aliphatic diacids and diols are introduced, utilizing existing industrial equipment for complete PET utilization. PEXT features a programmable molecular structure, delivering tailored mechanical, thermal, and biodegradation performance. Notably, PEXT exhibits superior mechanical performance, with a maximal elongation at break of 3419.2 % and a toughness of 270.79 MJ m-3. These characteristics make PEXT suitable for numerous applications, including shape-memory materials, transparent films, and fracture-resistant stretchable components. Significantly, PEXT allows closed-loop recycling within specific biodegradable analogs by reprograming PET or X-monomers. This strategy not only offers cost-effective advantages in large-scale upcycling of waste PET into advanced materials but also demonstrates its enormous prospect in environmental conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lidong Qin
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Xiaoxu Li
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Geng Ren
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Rongyan Yuan
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Zexu Hu
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Chenwu Ye
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Yangyang Zou
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Peiqing Ding
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Hongjie Zhang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Qiuquan Cai
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Andini E, Bhalode P, Gantert E, Sadula S, Vlachos DG. Chemical recycling of mixed textile waste. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eado6827. [PMID: 38959304 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ado6827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Globally, less than 0.5% of postconsumer textile waste is recycled, with the majority incinerated or ending up in landfills. Most postconsumer textiles are mixed fibers, complicating mechanical recycling due to material blends and contaminants. Here, we demonstrate the chemical conversion of postconsumer mixed textile waste using microwave-assisted glycolysis over a ZnO catalyst followed by solvent dissolution. This approach electrifies the process heat while allowing rapid depolymerization of polyester and spandex to their monomers in 15 minutes. A simple solvent dissolution enables the separation of cotton and nylon. We assess the quality of all components through extensive material characterization, discuss their potential for sustainable recycling, and provide a techno-economic analysis of the economic feasibility of the process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erha Andini
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Catalysis Center for Energy Innovation, University of Delaware, 221 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Pooja Bhalode
- Center for Plastics Innovation, 221 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Evan Gantert
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Sunitha Sadula
- Center for Plastics Innovation, 221 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Dionisios G Vlachos
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Catalysis Center for Energy Innovation, University of Delaware, 221 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Center for Plastics Innovation, 221 Academy St., Newark, DE 19716, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Galstyan V, D'Angelo P, Tarabella G, Vurro D, Djenizian T. High versatility of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste for the development of batteries, biosensing and gas sensing devices. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 359:142314. [PMID: 38735489 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Continuously growing adoption of electronic devices in energy storage, human health and environmental monitoring systems increases demand for cost-effective, lightweight, comfortable, and highly efficient functional structures. In this regard, the recycling and reuse of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste in the aforementioned fields due to its excellent mechanical properties and chemical resistance is an effective solution to reduce plastic waste. Herein, we review recent advances in synthesis procedures and research studies on the integration of PET into energy storage (Li-ion batteries) and the detection of gaseous and biological species. The operating principles of such systems are described and the role of recycled PET for various types of architectures is discussed. Modifying the composition, crystallinity, surface porosity, and polar surface functional groups of PET are important factors for tuning its features as the active or substrate material in biological and gas sensors. The findings indicate that conceptually new pathways to the study are opened up for the effective application of recycled PET in the design of Li-ion batteries, as well as biochemical and catalytic detection systems. The current challenges in these fields are also presented with perspectives on the opportunities that may enable a circular economy in PET use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vardan Galstyan
- Institute of Materials for Electronics and Magnetism, National Research Council (IMEM-CNR), Parco Area delle Scienze, 37/A, 43124, Parma, (PR), Italy; Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Vivarelli 10, 41125, Modena, Italy.
| | - Pasquale D'Angelo
- Institute of Materials for Electronics and Magnetism, National Research Council (IMEM-CNR), Parco Area delle Scienze, 37/A, 43124, Parma, (PR), Italy
| | - Giuseppe Tarabella
- Institute of Materials for Electronics and Magnetism, National Research Council (IMEM-CNR), Parco Area delle Scienze, 37/A, 43124, Parma, (PR), Italy
| | - Davide Vurro
- Institute of Materials for Electronics and Magnetism, National Research Council (IMEM-CNR), Parco Area delle Scienze, 37/A, 43124, Parma, (PR), Italy
| | - Thierry Djenizian
- Mines Saint-Etienne, Center of Microelectronics in Provence, Department of Flexible Electronics, F-13541, Gardanne, France; Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Center of Physical-Chemical Methods of Research and Analysis, Tole bi str., 96A, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhao T, Lin F, Dong Y, Wang M, Ning D, Hao X, Hao J, Zhang Y, Zhou D, Zhao Y, Luo J, Lu J, Wang B. Lattice Matching and Microstructure of the Aromatic Amide Fatty Acid Salts Nucleating Agent on the Crystallization Behavior of Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate. Molecules 2024; 29:3100. [PMID: 38999052 PMCID: PMC11242935 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29133100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
To solve the decrease in the crystallization, mechanical and thermal properties of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) during mechanical recycling, the aromatic amide fatty acid salt nucleating agents Na-4-ClBeAmBe, Na-4-ClBeAmGl and Na-4-ClAcAmBe were synthesized and the rPET/nucleating agent blend was prepared by melting blending. The molecular structure, the thermal stability, the microstructure and the crystal structure of the nucleating agent were characterized in detail. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) result indicated that the addition of the nucleating agent improved the crystallization temperature and accelerated the crystallization rate of the rPET. The nucleation efficiencies (NE) of the Na-4-ClBeAmBe, Na-4-ClBeAmGl and Na-4-ClAcAmBe were increased by 87.2%, 87.3% and 41.7% compared with rPET which indicated that Na-4-ClBeAmBe and Na-4-ClBeAmGl, with their long-strip microstructures, were more conducive to promoting the nucleation of rPET. The equilibrium melting points (Tm0) of rPET/Na-4-ClBeAmBe, rPET/Na-4-ClBeAmGl and rPET/Na-4-ClAcAmBe were increased by 11.7 °C, 18.6 °C and 1.9 °C compared with rPET, which illustrated that the lower mismatch rate between rPET and Na-4-ClBeAmGl (0.8% in b-axis) caused Na-4-ClBeAmGl to be the most capable in inducing the epitaxial crystallization and orient growth along the b-axis direction of the rPET. The small angle X-ray diffraction (SAXS) result proved this conclusion. Meanwhile, the addition of Na-4-ClBeAmGl caused the clearest increase in the rPET of its flexural strength and heat-distortion temperature (HDT) at 20.4% and 46.7%.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianjiao Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; (T.Z.); (Y.D.); (M.W.); (D.N.); (X.H.); (J.H.); (Y.Z.); (D.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Fuhua Lin
- School of Traffic Engineering, Shanxi Vocational University of Engineering Science and Technology, Jinzhong 030619, China;
| | - Yapeng Dong
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; (T.Z.); (Y.D.); (M.W.); (D.N.); (X.H.); (J.H.); (Y.Z.); (D.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Meizhen Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; (T.Z.); (Y.D.); (M.W.); (D.N.); (X.H.); (J.H.); (Y.Z.); (D.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Dingyi Ning
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; (T.Z.); (Y.D.); (M.W.); (D.N.); (X.H.); (J.H.); (Y.Z.); (D.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Xinyu Hao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; (T.Z.); (Y.D.); (M.W.); (D.N.); (X.H.); (J.H.); (Y.Z.); (D.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Jialiang Hao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; (T.Z.); (Y.D.); (M.W.); (D.N.); (X.H.); (J.H.); (Y.Z.); (D.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Yanli Zhang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; (T.Z.); (Y.D.); (M.W.); (D.N.); (X.H.); (J.H.); (Y.Z.); (D.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Dan Zhou
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; (T.Z.); (Y.D.); (M.W.); (D.N.); (X.H.); (J.H.); (Y.Z.); (D.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Yuying Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; (T.Z.); (Y.D.); (M.W.); (D.N.); (X.H.); (J.H.); (Y.Z.); (D.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Jun Luo
- Guangzhou Fibre Product Testing and Research Institute, Guangzhou 510220, China;
| | - Jingqiong Lu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; (T.Z.); (Y.D.); (M.W.); (D.N.); (X.H.); (J.H.); (Y.Z.); (D.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Bo Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Taiyuan University of Science and Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China; (T.Z.); (Y.D.); (M.W.); (D.N.); (X.H.); (J.H.); (Y.Z.); (D.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Mu B, Yu X, Shao Y, Yang Y. High-quality acrylic fibers from waste textiles. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 931:172752. [PMID: 38677427 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this work is to develop a closed-loop recycling method specifically tailored for acrylic fibers. Recycling waste acrylic is essential, given the vast volumes of acrylic-containing textiles produced yearly and the strong capability of acrylics to generate toxic microplastics. However, none of the available closed-loop recycling, mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, and direct extrusion technologies work for acrylics. Acrylic fibers are always blended with other textile fibers, making fiber separation via mechanical recycling almost impossible. Polyacrylonitrile, an addition-polymerized thermoplastic material, cannot be depolymerized into its original monomer. Direct extrusion of waste acrylics faces issues of uncontrollable colors on fibers and pollution of spinning lines due to the influence of existing colorants. In our method, acrylic fibers were extracted from waste textiles using a novel approach involving maximized acrylic swelling and dissolution with dimethyl sulfoxide and butanediol. Cationic dyes were effectively removed through cost-effective recycling technology. This work demonstrates that cationic dyes seriously affect the acrylic dissolution, color consistency, and dyeability of regenerated fibers via direct wet extrusion. Such negative impacts of dyes have been eliminated by our cost-effective and closed-loop acrylic recycling technology, which enables the efficient separation of non-acrylic fibers and dyes from acrylic fibers. Our recycling system achieved zero discharges through recycling solvents, dyes, and acrylics. The regenerated acrylic fibers exhibited mechanical properties and dyeability comparable to virgin acrylic fibers. The material and energy costs to produce pure acrylic from waste textiles were only 40 % of those from fossils. This study successfully introduces a closed-loop recycling method for acrylic fibers from waste textiles, addressing key challenges in acrylic fiber recycling. Further research and implementation of this technology are recommended to advance its commercial viability and widespread adoption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bingnan Mu
- Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States
| | - Xiaoqing Yu
- Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States
| | - Yuanyi Shao
- Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States
| | - Yiqi Yang
- Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States; Department of Biological Systems Engineering, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States; Nebraska Center for Materials and Nanoscience, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Enache AC, Grecu I, Samoila P. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Recycled by Catalytic Glycolysis: A Bridge toward Circular Economy Principles. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:2991. [PMID: 38930360 PMCID: PMC11205646 DOI: 10.3390/ma17122991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has escalated into a critical global issue, with production soaring from 2 million metric tons in 1950 to 400.3 million metric tons in 2022. The packaging industry alone accounts for nearly 44% of this production, predominantly utilizing polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Alarmingly, over 90% of the approximately 1 million PET bottles sold every minute end up in landfills or oceans, where they can persist for centuries. This highlights the urgent need for sustainable management and recycling solutions to mitigate the environmental impact of PET waste. To better understand PET's behavior and promote its management within a circular economy, we examined its chemical and physical properties, current strategies in the circular economy, and the most effective recycling methods available today. Advancing PET management within a circular economy framework by closing industrial loops has demonstrated benefits such as reduced landfill waste, minimized energy consumption, and conserved raw resources. To this end, we identified and examined various strategies based on R-imperatives (ranging from 3R to 10R), focusing on the latest approaches aimed at significantly reducing PET waste by 2040. Additionally, a comparison of PET recycling methods (including primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary recycling, along with the concepts of "zero-order" and biological recycling techniques) was envisaged. Particular attention was paid to the heterogeneous catalytic glycolysis, which stands out for its rapid reaction time (20-60 min), high monomer yields (>90%), ease of catalyst recovery and reuse, lower costs, and enhanced durability. Accordingly, the use of highly efficient oxide-based catalysts for PET glycolytic degradation is underscored as a promising solution for large-scale industrial applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Petrisor Samoila
- “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Grigore Ghica Voda Alley, 700487 Iasi, Romania; (A.-C.E.); (I.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yang J, Li Z, Xu Q, Liu W, Gao S, Qin P, Chen Z, Wang A. Towards carbon neutrality: Sustainable recycling and upcycling strategies and mechanisms for polyethylene terephthalate via biotic/abiotic pathways. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH 2024; 3:117-130. [PMID: 38638172 PMCID: PMC11021832 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2024.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), one of the most ubiquitous engineering plastics, presents both environmental challenges and opportunities for carbon neutrality and a circular economy. This review comprehensively addressed the latest developments in biotic and abiotic approaches for PET recycling/upcycling. Biotically, microbial depolymerization of PET, along with the biosynthesis of reclaimed monomers [terephthalic acid (TPA), ethylene glycol (EG)] to value-added products, presents an alternative for managing PET waste and enables CO2 reduction. Abiotically, thermal treatments (i.e., hydrolysis, glycolysis, methanolysis, etc.) and photo/electrocatalysis, enabled by catalysis advances, can depolymerize or convert PET/PET monomers in a more flexible, simple, fast, and controllable manner. Tandem abiotic/biotic catalysis offers great potential for PET upcycling to generate commodity chemicals and alternative materials, ideally at lower energy inputs, greenhouse gas emissions, and costs, compared to virgin polymer fabrication. Remarkably, over 25 types of upgraded PET products (e.g., adipic acid, muconic acid, catechol, vanillin, and glycolic acid, etc.) have been identified, underscoring the potential of PET upcycling in diverse applications. Efforts can be made to develop chemo-catalytic depolymerization of PET, improve microbial depolymerization of PET (e.g., hydrolysis efficiency, enzymatic activity, thermal and pH level stability, etc.), as well as identify new microorganisms or hydrolases capable of degrading PET through computational and machine learning algorithms. Consequently, this review provides a roadmap for advancing PET recycling and upcycling technologies, which hold the potential to shape the future of PET waste management and contribute to the preservation of our ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Yang
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhiling Li
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Qiongying Xu
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Wenzong Liu
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Shuhong Gao
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Peiwu Qin
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhenglin Chen
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Aijie Wang
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resources and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Amundarain I, Asueta A, Leivar J, Santin K, Arnaiz S. Optimization of Pressurized Alkaline Hydrolysis for Chemical Recycling of Post-Consumer PET Waste. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:2619. [PMID: 38893883 PMCID: PMC11173775 DOI: 10.3390/ma17112619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Addressing the environmental impact of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) disposal highlights the need for efficient recycling methods. Chemical recycling, specifically alkaline hydrolysis, presents a promising avenue for PET waste management by depolymerizing PET into its constituent monomers. This study focuses on optimizing the pressurized alkaline hydrolysis process for post-consumer PET residues obtained from packaging materials. Post-consumer PET packaging waste was chemically recycled by means of an alkaline hydrolysis reaction in a 2 L pressurized reactor under varying conditions of the NaOH/PET ratio and temperature. The reaction's progress was monitored by sampling the liquid phase hourly over a four-hour period. The obtained products were purified, with a focus on isolating terephthalic acid (TPA). Higher temperatures (150 °C) resulted in superior TPA yields (>95%) compared to lower temperatures (120 °C). The NaOH/PET ratio showed minimal influence on the TPA yield. The optimal conditions (T = 150 °C; NaOH:PET = 2) were identified based on TPA yield and reaction cost considerations. This study demonstrates the feasibility of pressurized alkaline hydrolysis for PET recycling, with optimized conditions yielding high TPA purity and efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Izotz Amundarain
- GAIKER Technology Centre, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Parque Tecnológico de Bizkaia, Edificio 202, 48170 Zamudio, Spain; (A.A.); (J.L.); (K.S.); (S.A.)
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Tanaka S, Koga M, Kuragano T, Ogawa A, Ogiwara H, Sato K, Nakajima Y. Depolymerization of Polyester Fibers with Dimethyl Carbonate-Aided Methanolysis. ACS MATERIALS AU 2024; 4:335-345. [PMID: 38737120 PMCID: PMC11083123 DOI: 10.1021/acsmaterialsau.3c00091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Polyester fibers, comprising mostly poly(ethylene terephthalate) with high crystalline content, represent the most commonly produced plastic for ubiquitous textiles, and approximately 60 million tons are manufactured annually worldwide. Considering the social issues of mismanaged waste produced from used textile products, there is an urgent demand for sustainable waste polyester fiber recycling methods. We developed a low-temperature, rapid, and efficient depolymerization method for recycling polyester fibers. By utilizing methanolysis with dimethyl carbonate as a trapping agent for ethylene glycol, depolymerization of polyester fibers from textile products proceeded at 50 °C for 2 h, affording dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) in a >90% yield. This strategy allowed us to depolymerize even practical polyester textiles blended with other fibers to selectively isolate DMT in high yields. This method was also applicable for colored polyester textiles, and analytically pure DMT was isolated via depolymerization and decolorization processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shinji Tanaka
- Interdisciplinary
Research Center for Catalytic Chemistry, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
(AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8565, Japan
| | - Maito Koga
- Research
Institute for Sustainable Chemistry, National
Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8565, Japan
| | - Takashi Kuragano
- Interdisciplinary
Research Center for Catalytic Chemistry, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
(AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8565, Japan
| | - Atsuko Ogawa
- Interdisciplinary
Research Center for Catalytic Chemistry, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
(AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8565, Japan
| | - Hibiki Ogiwara
- Interdisciplinary
Research Center for Catalytic Chemistry, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
(AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8565, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Sato
- Interdisciplinary
Research Center for Catalytic Chemistry, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
(AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8565, Japan
| | - Yumiko Nakajima
- Interdisciplinary
Research Center for Catalytic Chemistry, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
(AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8565, Japan
- School
of Materials and Chemical Technology, Tokyo
Institute of Technology, 2-12-1, Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8552, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Shi C, Quinn EC, Diment WT, Chen EYX. Recyclable and (Bio)degradable Polyesters in a Circular Plastics Economy. Chem Rev 2024; 124:4393-4478. [PMID: 38518259 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Polyesters carrying polar main-chain ester linkages exhibit distinct material properties for diverse applications and thus play an important role in today's plastics economy. It is anticipated that they will play an even greater role in tomorrow's circular plastics economy that focuses on sustainability, thanks to the abundant availability of their biosourced building blocks and the presence of the main-chain ester bonds that can be chemically or biologically cleaved on demand by multiple methods and thus bring about more desired end-of-life plastic waste management options. Because of this potential and promise, there have been intense research activities directed at addressing recycling, upcycling or biodegradation of existing legacy polyesters, designing their biorenewable alternatives, and redesigning future polyesters with intrinsic chemical recyclability and tailored performance that can rival today's commodity plastics that are either petroleum based and/or hard to recycle. This review captures these exciting recent developments and outlines future challenges and opportunities. Case studies on the legacy polyesters, poly(lactic acid), poly(3-hydroxyalkanoate)s, poly(ethylene terephthalate), poly(butylene succinate), and poly(butylene-adipate terephthalate), are presented, and emerging chemically recyclable polyesters are comprehensively reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Changxia Shi
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Ethan C Quinn
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Wilfred T Diment
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Clark R, Shaver MP. Depolymerization within a Circular Plastics System. Chem Rev 2024; 124:2617-2650. [PMID: 38386877 PMCID: PMC10941197 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The societal importance of plastics contrasts with the carelessness with which they are disposed. Their superlative properties lead to economic and environmental efficiency, but the linearity of plastics puts the climate, human health, and global ecosystems at risk. Recycling is fundamental to transitioning this linear model into a more sustainable, circular economy. Among recycling technologies, chemical depolymerization offers a route to virgin quality recycled plastics, especially when valorizing complex waste streams poorly served by mechanical methods. However, chemical depolymerization exists in a complex and interlinked system of end-of-life fates, with the complementarity of each approach key to environmental, economic, and societal sustainability. This review explores the recent progress made into the depolymerization of five commercial polymers: poly(ethylene terephthalate), polycarbonates, polyamides, aliphatic polyesters, and polyurethanes. Attention is paid not only to the catalytic technologies used to enhance depolymerization efficiencies but also to the interrelationship with other recycling technologies and to the systemic constraints imposed by a global economy. Novel polymers, designed for chemical depolymerization, are also concisely reviewed in terms of their underlying chemistry and potential for integration with current plastic systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robbie
A. Clark
- Department
of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
- Sustainable
Materials Innovation Hub, Henry Royce Institute, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
| | - Michael P. Shaver
- Department
of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
- Sustainable
Materials Innovation Hub, Henry Royce Institute, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lv H, Huang F, Zhang F. Upcycling Waste Plastics with a C-C Backbone by Heterogeneous Catalysis. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:5077-5089. [PMID: 38358312 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c03866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Plastics with an inert carbon-carbon (C-C) backbone, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), are the most widely used types of plastic in human activities. However, many of these polymers were directly discarded in nature after use, and few were appropriately recycled. This not only threatens the natural environment but also leads to the waste of carbon resources. Conventional chemical recycling of these plastics, including pyrolysis and catalytic cracking, requires a high energy input due to the chemical inertness of C-C bonds and C-H bonds and leads to complex product distribution. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the development of catalysts and the introduction of small molecules as additional coreactants, which could potentially overcome these challenges. In this Review, we summarize and highlight catalytic strategies that address these issues in upcycling C-C backbone plastics with small molecules, particularly in heterogeneous catalysis. We believe that this review will inspire the development of upcycling methods for C-C backbone plastics using small molecules and heterogeneous catalysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huidong Lv
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, Sichuan People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Huang
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, Sichuan People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, Sichuan People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhu R, Mao C, Gao F, Guo Z, Li M, Xin Y, Gu Z, Zhang L. Catalytic Cleavage of the C-O Bonds in Lignin and Lignin Model Compounds by Metal Triflate Catalysts. CHEMSUSCHEM 2024; 17:e202301743. [PMID: 38206879 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202301743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
The effective cleavage of C-O bonds in linkages of lignin was one of the significant strategies promoting lignin valorization. Herein, the strategy of C-O bonds cleavage of lignin using metal triflate as the catalyst was developed. The carboxylic acid or alcohol could be used as the nucleophile to stabilize the reactive intermediates formed during the depolymerization of lignin, and the corresponding ester/ether compounds could be obtained. This catalytic system was suitable for the C-O bond cleavage in α-O-4 and β-O-4 linkages with excellent efficiency. Additionally, reaction conditions were optimized. The reaction mixture was detected by 1 H NMR, and no other byproducts were found. As for treated lignin samples, the cleavage of C-O bonds in linkages was determined by 2D HSQC NMR, the increased content of the phenol hydroxyl group was proved by FT-IR, and the reduced molecular weight was investigated by GPC. Furthermore, multiple phenolic compounds were detected by GC-MS in the reaction mixtures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhu
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
| | - Changtao Mao
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
| | - Fang Gao
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
| | - Zhongpeng Guo
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
| | - Moying Li
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
| | - Yu Xin
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
| | - Zhenghua Gu
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
- JITRI Future Food Technology Research Institute Co., Ltd, Yixing, 214200, P. R. China
| | - Liang Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center of Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China
- JITRI Future Food Technology Research Institute Co., Ltd, Yixing, 214200, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Gao B, Yao C, Sun X, Yaras A, Mao L. Upcycling discarded polyethylene terephthalate plastics into superior tensile strength and impact resistance materials with a facile one-pot process. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 466:133662. [PMID: 38309171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Discarding PET plastic (dPET) causes serious environmental pollution and enormous fossil resources waste. Processing techniques have mainly focused on the conversion of dPET into monomers, with minimal reports highlighting their transformation into high-value materials. This work intends to transform dPET into a high-performance material with potential alternative value in harsh production environments. The soft and hard segments of the thermoplastic polyester elastomeric (TPEE) molecular structure are reacted and cross-linked with dPET using a facile one-pot process, and two main polymers, (C8H4O4)n and ((C16H18O4)0.76·(C4H8O)0.24)n are generated after the reaction. Through chemical reactions between TPEE and dPET, new characteristic products and chemical bond-crossing structures are formed, while the resulting product particles or multiple TPEE particles are anchored by the high viscosity of dPET, which endows the material with superior tensile strength (34.21 MPa) and impact resistance. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the material implies that neither the molecular chain nor the chain segments can move, while only the atoms or groups composing the molecule vibrate at their equilibrium positions. The development of this new treatment method may contribute to the reduction of environmental pollution and the improvement of the high-value conversion and utilization of dPET.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bingying Gao
- School of Petrochemical Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China
| | - Chao Yao
- School of Petrochemical Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China
| | - Xuzhang Sun
- School of Petrochemical Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China
| | - Ali Yaras
- Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Design, Department of Metallurgy and Material Engineering, Bartın University, Bartin, Turkey
| | - Linqiang Mao
- School of Environmental & Safety Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Bai X, Aireddy DR, Roy A, Ding K. Solvent-Free Depolymerization of Plastic Waste Enabled by Plastic-Catalyst Interfacial Engineering. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202309949. [PMID: 37775978 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202309949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Depolymerization of condensation polymers by chemolysis often suffers from the large usage of solvents and homogeneous catalysts such as acids, bases, and metal salts. The catalytic efficiency of heterogeneous catalysts is largely constrained by the poor interfacial contact between solid catalysts and solid plastics below melting points. We report here our discovery of autogenous heterogeneous catalyst layer on polyethylene terephthalate surfaces during the generally believed homogeneous catalytic depolymerization process. Inspired by the "contact mass" concept in industrial chlorosilane production, we further demonstrate that the construction of plastic-catalyst solid-solid interfaces enables solvent-free depolymerization of polyethylene terephthalate by vapor phase methanolysis at relatively low temperatures. Trace amounts of earth-abundant element (zinc) introduced by electrostatic adsorption is sufficient for catalyzing the depolymerization. The concept of plastic-catalyst contact mass interfacial catalysis might inspire new pathways for tackling plastic waste problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshen Bai
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Divakar R Aireddy
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Amitava Roy
- Center for Advanced Microstructures & Devices, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70806, USA
| | - Kunlun Ding
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Huang P, Ahamed A, Sun R, De Hoe GX, Pitcher J, Mushing A, Lourenço F, Shaver MP. Circularizing PET-G Multimaterials: Life Cycle Assessment and Techno-Economic Analysis. ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING 2023; 11:15328-15337. [PMID: 37886038 PMCID: PMC10598876 DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c04047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The recycling of multimaterials such as payment or access cards poses significant challenges. Building on previous experimental work demonstrating the feasibility of chemically recyclable payment cards made from glycol-modified poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET-G), we use life cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis to investigate two chemical recycling scenarios and evaluate their potential environmental and economic benefits. Recovering all components from the depolymerized products (Scenario 1) achieves substantial environmental benefits across most categories, reducing global warming by up to 67% compared to only recovering major components (Scenario 2). However, the environmental benefits in Scenario 1 incur 69% higher total annualized costs, causing its profitability to be dependent on a minimum selling price of £13.4/kg for cyclohexanedimethanol and less than a 10% discount rate. In contrast, Scenario 2 is less sensitive to discount rate variation and thus a lower risk and more economically feasible option, albeit less environmentally sustainable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng Huang
- Department
of Materials, Henry Royce Institute, The
University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, U.K.
| | - Ashiq Ahamed
- Pragmatic
Semiconductor Ltd., Cambridge CB4 0WH, U.K.
| | - Ruitao Sun
- School
of Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, U.K.
| | - Guilhem X. De Hoe
- Department
of Materials, Henry Royce Institute, The
University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, U.K.
| | - Joe Pitcher
- Mastercard
DigiSec Lab, 5 Booths Park, Chelford Road, Knutsford WA16 8QZ, U.K.
| | - Alan Mushing
- Mastercard
DigiSec Lab, 5 Booths Park, Chelford Road, Knutsford WA16 8QZ, U.K.
| | - Fernando Lourenço
- Mastercard
DigiSec Lab, 5 Booths Park, Chelford Road, Knutsford WA16 8QZ, U.K.
| | - Michael P. Shaver
- Department
of Materials, Henry Royce Institute, The
University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, U.K.
| |
Collapse
|