Photocatalytic Upcycling and Depolymerization of Vinyl Polymers
Kostas Parkatzidis, Hyun Suk Wang, Athina Anastasaki
Abstract
Photocatalytic upcycling and depolymerization of vinyl polymers have emerged as promising strategies to combat plastic pollution and promote a circular economy. This mini review critically summarizes current developments in the upcycling and degradation of vinyl polymers including polystyrene and poly(meth)acrylates. Of these material classes, polymethacrylates possess the unique possibility to undergo a photocatalytic depolymerization back to monomer under thermodynamically favourable conditions, thus presenting significant advantages over traditional thermal strategies. Our perspective on current formidable challenges and potential future directions are also discussed.
Topics & Concepts
DepolymerizationPhotocatalysisVinyl polymerPolymerMaterials sciencePolystyreneMonomerPolymer scienceNanotechnologyPolymer chemistryOrganic chemistryChemistryCatalysisComposite materialAdvanced Polymer Synthesis and CharacterizationMicroplastics and Plastic Pollutionbiodegradable polymer synthesis and properties