Noncovalent Interaction-Catalyzed High Conversion of Waste PET Plastics into Organic Esters under Mild Conditions

Herein, we report a versatile esterolysis strategy, driven by noncovalent interactions (such as hydrogen bonding and electrostatic forces), that depolymerizes waste poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) into high-value molecular precursors under mild conditions. This strategy can be applied to a broad range of ester substrates, including carboxylates, carbonates, and silicon/titanium (Si/Ti)-based esters. A series of mechanistic studies reveal that the TBD catalyst serves a dual function. It catalyzes the in situ generation of methanol from dimethyl carbonate while simultaneously driving the cleavage of C-O bonds in PET via hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions. Ultimately, this work establishes a widely applicable and sustainable platform for PET upcycling, which not only enhances the valorization of plastic waste but also provides a scalable solution to the global plastic pollution crisis.