Work

A Sustainable Circular Route for PET LDH Nanocomposites: Catalyst-Driven Polymerization and Depolymerization for a BHET-to-BHET Cycle

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: A sustainable circular pathway was developed for poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) nanocomposites through a catalyst-driven polymerization and depolymerization process. In this study, calcium dodecylbenzene sulfonate with n-butyl alcohol modified ZnAl layered double hydroxides (LDHs) were utilized as bifunctional catalysts to synthesize highly exfoliated PET/LDH nanocomposites via in situ polycondensation of bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET). The organic modification of LDHs expanded interlayer spacing, improved interfacial compatibility, and promoted uniform dispersion, leading to enhanced mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties. In the second stage, the pristine LDH catalyst efficiently depolymerized the prepared PET/LDH nanocomposites back into BHET through glycolysis, completing a closed-loop BHET-to-BHET cycle. This integrated strategy demonstrates the reversible catalytic functionality of LDHs in both polymerization and depolymerization, reducing metal contamination and energy demand. The proposed approach represents a sustainable route for designing recyclable high-performance PET nanocomposites aligned with the principles of green chemistry and circular material systems.

Source: Sustainable Chemistry

DOI: 10.3390/suschem7010006

Authors: Tsung-Yen Tsai, Basharat Hussain, Naveen Bunekar

Institution: Chung Yuan Christian University

Language: English

Topic: Polymer Nanocomposites and Properties

Subfield: Polymers and Plastics

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,207