Depolymerization of Nylon-6 over a Supported Ruthenium Catalyst to ε-Caprolactam
Abstract
-TPR revealed that the smaller Ru particles were easier to reduce, and this is suggested to be the reason for the higher activity. Moreover, we propose that Ru-supported catalysts, in conjunction with activated hydrogen, exert a synergistic effect, facilitating both the alteration of crystallinity and the cleavage of C-N bonds, thereby enhancing the depolymerization rate of nylon-6. The robustness of the catalyst system is studied using plasticizers and additives. Interestingly, the addition of water could suppress byproduct formation, resulting in 100% selectivity. Additionally, the reusability of the catalyst is demonstrated.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Organometallic Complex Synthesis and Catalysis
Polymer crystallization and properties
Synthetic Organic Chemistry Methods
Publication details
- Journal / source
- ACS Environmental Au
- Publisher
- American Chemical Society (ACS)
- Volume
- 6
- Issue
- 4
- Pages
- 589–607
- Publication date
- 9 April 2026
- Language
- EN