Work

Imino‐Pyrrole Zn(II) Complexes for the Rapid and Selective Chemical Recycling of Commodity Polymers

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Three imino-pyrrole zinc complexes were prepared and applied to the rapid degradation of polylactic acid (PLA) and the depolymerization of bisphenol A polycarbonate (BPA-PC) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). PLA alcoholysis proceeded rapidly at a range of conditions, including reflux in air. Remarkable activity was demonstrated for the solvent-free methanolysis of PLA at mild conditions with full conversion reached in 11 min at 80 °C. Various conditions were investigated including a range of PLA sources and, importantly, catalyst recycling was demonstrated. The methanolysis of BPA-PC and the glycolysis of PET were achieved, the latter giving full conversion after 1.5 h for all catalysts. The chemical recycling of mixed plastic feedstocks was investigated, including the selective and sequential degradation of a PLA/BPA-PC mixture with a single catalyst and solvent.

Source: Angewandte Chemie International Edition

DOI: 10.1002/anie.202502845

Authors: Jack A. Stewart, Louis T. W. Powell, Matthew J. Cullen, Gabrielle Kociok‐Köhn, Matthew G. Davidson, Matthew D. Jones

Institution: University of Bath

Language: English

Topic: biodegradable polymer synthesis and properties

Subfield: Biomaterials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,510