Advances in solar-driven, electro/photoelectrochemical, and microwave-assisted upcycling of waste polyesters
Xiangxi Lou, Fangyue Liu, Qingye Li, Mingyu Chu, Guiling Wang, Jinxing Chen, Muhan Cao
Abstract
Plastic waste in the environment causes significant environmental pollution. The potential of using chemical methods for upcycling plastic waste offers a dual solution to ensure resource sustainability and environmental restoration. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the latest technologies driven by solar-driven, electro/photoelectrochemical-catalytic, and microwave-assisted methods for the conversion of plastics into various valuable chemicals. It emphasizes selective conversion during the plastic transformation process, elucidates reaction pathways, and optimizes product selectivity. Finally, the article offers insights into the future developments of chemical upcycling of polyesters.