Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is one of the most used polymers, but the non-degradable and persistent nature of PET waste in the environment is a global menace. Hence upcycling PET waste becomes indispensable. Herein, we introduce the first metal-free electrochemical-upcycling of PET into value-added chemicals and H2 fuel using an organo-electrocatalyst (2,2,6,6-Tetramethylpiperidin-1-yl)oxyl (TEMPO). Electrolysis at pH 10 produces glycolate and oxalate exclusively while at pH 14, over-oxidation and subsequent C-C bond cleavage produce formate and carbonate as well. Tuning the rate and product selectivity via pH regulation with mechanistic insight displays a sustainable route to implement waste PET recycling.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 7777-7780 |
| Number of pages | 4 |
| Journal | Chemical Communications |
| Volume | 60 |
| Issue number | 60 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 3 Jul 2024 |
| Externally published | Yes |
UN SDGs
This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
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SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy -
SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production -
SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
- Catalysis
- Ceramics and Composites
- General Chemistry
- Surfaces, Coatings and Films
- Metals and Alloys
- Materials Chemistry
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