Selective Degradation of Polyurethanes in Mixed Plastic Wastes via Ir-Catalyzed Hydrogenolysis

Chemical recycling of plastic waste has been widely undertaken to address a circular carbon economy. However, the presence of different polymers or composites in plastic waste complicates its chemical degradation into reusable chemical feedstocks. Here, we report the selective degradation of polyurethanes in mixed plastics with polyesters and polyamides using H2 as a reactant, contrarily to the implicitly low reactivity of urethanes against esters and amides. This chemoselectivity enables selective chemical recycling of urethanes in mixed textiles and end-of-life car seats, while thermoplastic polyesters and polyamides can be separated for mechanical recycling. This innovative recycling approach facilitates composite separation and resource circulation in mixed plastic waste, addressing a pressing global concern.