Shell-like Ni(OH)₂ loaded with Pd nanoparticle catalyst mediated efficient electrocatalytic upcycling of polyethylene...

Electrochemical techniques offer a promising approach to achieving plastic waste recycling, particularly to address plastic pollution problems. In this study, we developed a novel Pd/Ni(OH)₂/NF electrocatalyst. with efficient interfacial electron transfer capability in the conversion of ethylene glycol (EG) to high-value-added glycolic acid (GA) from the hydrolyzed product of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics. This Pd/Ni(OH)₂/NF electrocatalyst demonstrated low overpotentials of 0.53 V and 0.79 V vs. RHE and achieved current densities of 10 mA cm^-2 and 100 mA cm^-2, respectively. Notably, Pd/Ni(OH)₂/NF electrocatalyst can efficiently produce value-added glycolic acid over a wide potential range (0.9 V-1.3 V), with a maximum Faraday efficiency rate of 94.2 %. The low overpotential and high efficiency of Pd/Ni(OH)₂/NF is attributed to the strong electronic interaction at the Pd/Ni(OH)₂ interface, which enhances the catalytic conversion of the ethylene glycol. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations provide further theoretical insights into the transformation mechanisms. Additionally, the catalyst demonstrated stable electrocatalytic performance for 100 h in an anion-exchange membrane (AEM) flow reactor at a current density of 100 mA cm^-2. This study presents a novel electrocatalyst and viable electrochemical pathway for upgrading PET plastic waste into valuable products.