Researchers develop new 'organocatylst' capable of recycling mixed plastics

Researchers at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a new catalytic recycling process for mixed plastics that offers a promising strategy for combating global plastic waste. This process uses a tailored synthetic organocatalyst that can deconstruct multiple polymers in mixed plastics into pristine monomers that can be used to produce commercial-grade plastics and other materials. This new catalyst generates fewer greenhouse gases, requires less energy input, and reduces fossil fuel consumption compared to using individual catalysts for each type of plastic. This recycling process could significantly reduce annual energy consumption from fossil fuels.  (Phys.org)