Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a common thermoplastic polymer, and it is widely used in plastic bottles and food packaging. This usage has resulted in a need to efficiently dispose of or recycle the polymer. This work represents an investigation into the chemical degradation of PET sheets into oligomers that can be converted into dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) and ethylene glycol. A summary of recent approaches to dealing with PET is provided, with a focus on a published report using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and hydrotalcite as a catalyst. This investigation follows the reported scheme under varying experimental conditions, representing a step toward an efficient recycling method of PET.

Evaluation of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) degradation scheme

Where thousands of chemistry professionals meet to share ideas and advance scientific and technical knowledge. Spring 2023 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch at the end of March.

ACS Spring 2023

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.