Rome, May 18, 2021 – At Washington State University, in the United States, a group of researchers has developed an innovative process for convert plastic into jet fuel. The technique, presented in the journal Chem Catalysis, differs from other similar recycling methods for its practicality and low costs, which propel it towards a potential industrial application in a fairly short time. With a further advantage beyond the economic one: the reuse of materials that otherwise would go to infest oceans and soil.
The work of the team of Hongfei Lin, a professor at the department of bioengineering and chemical engineering, was guided by the desire to find a alternative solution to the main recycling methods currently in use, which essentially consist of melting and remodeling of plastic waste. These mechanical methods are now well established, but have the disadvantage of reducing the quality and therefore the economic value of the final product, as well as not working with all types of plastics. Conversely, recycling techniques that exploit chemistry give rise to more valuable recycled materials, but bring with them various problems, including high reaction temperatures, long and cumbersome passages, and last but not least very expensive costs.
Without going into too technical details, the recipe devised by the WSU scientists involves the use of a ruthenium-based catalyst and a common solvent for recycle polyethylene, the most widespread among the plastics on the market. At a temperature of “only” 220 degrees (very little, compared to the norm), the reaction allows transform about 90% of the plastic in jet fuel, but also in high-quality lubricants; the whole within a maximum time of one hour. “Depending on the demand, we can tune in to the product they want to generate,” Lin explained.
Thanks also to the support of some non-profit organizations, including the Washington Research Foundation, the project now aims at find a commercial outlet, with the hope of giving new impetus to the recycling of plastic, generating positive effects for the environment and the economy. In the meantime, the researchers are working to make the process even more efficient and attractive, for example by making sure that it can also give good results. with other types of plastic.
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