Selective Sequential Depolymerization of Mixed Plastics Mediated by Photothermal Conversion
Abstract
Chemical recycling of plastics into monomers is a promising strategy to achieve a circular economy. However, selective depolymerization methods for mixed plastics are still underdeveloped. Herein, we report a selective and sequential depolymerization strategy for mixed plastics, including poly(L-lactide) (PLLA), polystyrene (PS), and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), using photothermal conversion. We were able to selectively depolymerize PLLA into L-lactide in the presence of PS and PET. Then, PS was selectively depolymerized to styrene, followed by the depolymerization of PET into its monomer. Our protocol was carried out in one pot without any additional purification of the unreacted plastics at each stage. This method was successfully applied to mixtures of post-consumer waste plastic.
Fields of Study & Subjects
biodegradable polymer synthesis and properties
Microplastics and Plastic Pollution
Polymer composites and self-healing
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Angewandte Chemie
- Publisher
- Wiley
- Volume
- 138
- Issue
- 36
- Pages
- e2075380–e2075380
- Publication date
- 13 July 2026
- Language
- EN