我国开发出全球首创的室温催化转化技术：实现塑料变燃油

Core Insights - The research team from East China Normal University has developed a groundbreaking room-temperature catalytic conversion technology for recycling difficult-to-degrade mixed plastic waste, achieving over 95% conversion efficiency [1][6][10] - This innovation addresses the global challenge of recycling chlorine-containing plastics, particularly PVC, and offers a new solution for plastic pollution management [1][4][10] Industry Context - Plastic has become a crucial material in modern society, with cumulative production exceeding 100 billion tons since the 1950s, of which approximately 80% ends up as waste, leading to significant environmental issues [3][4] - China, as the largest producer and consumer of plastics, faces severe challenges in plastic waste management, with over 1 billion tons of waste plastic stock and an annual increase of over 60 million tons [3][4] Technological Innovation - The new technology integrates the processes of dechlorination, cracking, and alkylation into a single step, significantly reducing energy consumption by over 70% compared to traditional methods [6][8] - The use of ionic liquids as catalysts enhances the safety, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency of the process, allowing for nearly complete conversion of mixed plastic waste into high-quality fuel [6][10] Environmental Impact - The technology not only improves the economic viability of plastic recycling but also establishes a complete resource recycling chain, contributing to global plastic pollution solutions [6][8] - By converting waste plastics into valuable products without toxic byproducts, the technology effectively mitigates chlorine pollution and aligns with carbon neutrality goals [6][10] Future Prospects - The research team aims to commercialize the technology through partnerships with petrochemical companies and leverage AI to develop more efficient catalytic systems [10] - The technology is expected to be compatible with existing refining processes, transforming the economic outlook of plastic waste from negative to positive [8][10]