The depolymerization of plastic waste to valuable chemicals (waste‐to‐chemicals) can be a useful implement for a resource‐efficient economy. In this regard, the selective depolymerization of end‐of‐life poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) via zinc(II) acetate‐catalyzed methanolysis was investigated. As low molecular weight products dimethyl terephthalate and ethylene glycol were generated. With the support of microwave heating excellent yields and selectivities were realized and a selection of daily‐used PET goods were depolymerized. The obtained chemicals can be used for the (re)polymerization to new PET. Additionally, the generated dimethyl terephthalate was used as platform chemical for the synthesis of different molecules relevant for polymerization chemistry.
The valorization of waste to valuable chemicals can contribute to a more resource‐efficient and circular chemistry. In this regard, the selective degradation of end‐of‐life polymers/plastics to produce useful chemical building blocks can be a promising target. We have investigated the hydrogenative depolymerization of end‐of‐life poly(bisphenol A carbonate). Applying catalytic amounts of the commercial available Ruthenium‐MACHO‐BH complex the end‐of‐life polycarbonate was converted to bisphenol A and methanol. Importantly, bisphenol A can be reprocessed for the manufacture of new poly‐(bisphenol A carbonate) and methanol can be utilized as energy storage material.
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