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Chemical recycling of polylactide by microwave-assisted processes
Federica Santulli1, Mauro Pio Ferrandino1, Costantino Cioffi1
1Department of Chemistry and Biology "Adolfo Zambelli", University of Salerno, via Giovanni Paolo II, 132. 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy. mmazzeo@unisa.it.
Faraday Discussions
|September 22, 2025
Summary
This study explores the microwave-assisted chemical recycling of polylactic acid using a zinc catalyst. The process efficiently breaks down plastic waste into valuable products using various alcohols and diols.
Area of Science:
- Green Chemistry
- Polymer Science
- Catalysis
Background:
- Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable polymer facing challenges in efficient post-consumer recycling.
- Chemical recycling offers a sustainable alternative to traditional methods for managing plastic waste.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microwave-assisted alcoholysis of post-consumer polylactic acid.
- To evaluate the efficacy of a phenoxy-imine pyridine zinc catalyst in this process.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing microwave irradiation to accelerate the alcoholysis reaction.
- Employing a phenoxy-imine pyridine zinc complex as a catalyst.
- Testing various alcohols and diols as reaction agents.
Main Results:
- Achieved outstanding catalytic activity and selectivity towards target products.
- Demonstrated catalyst robustness, enabling reactions in air.
- Confirmed the feasibility of using technical grade reagents and omitting additional solvents.
Conclusions:
- The developed method provides a sustainable and efficient route for chemical recycling of polylactic acid.
- The zinc-based catalyst exhibits excellent performance and stability under ambient conditions.
- This approach contributes to a circular economy for plastics by enabling high-value product recovery.
