Catalytic conversion of mixed polyolefins under mild atmospheric pressure

The chemical recycling of polyolefin presents a considerable challenge, especially as upcycling methods struggle with the reality that plastic wastes typically consist of mixtures of polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), and polypropylene (PP). We report a catalytic aerobic oxidative approach for polyolefins upcycling with the corresponding carboxylic acids as the product. This method encompasses three key innovations. Firstly, it operates under atmospheric pressure and mild conditions, using O₂ or air as the oxidant. Secondly, it is compatible with HDPE (high-density polyethylene), LDPE (low-density polyethylene), PS, PP, and their blends; Thirdly, it utilizes an economical and recoverable metal catalyst. It has been demonstrated that this approach can efficiently degrade mixed wastes of plastic bags, bottles, masks, and foam boxes.