Innovative catalyst transforms plastic trash into liquid fuels

A research team led by the University of Delaware has developed an innovative mesoporous MXene catalyst that significantly improves the conversion of plastic waste into liquid fuels. This catalyst enhances the hydrogenolysis process, which breaks down polymers in plastics using hydrogen gas and a catalyst. Unlike conventional catalysts that struggle with bulky polymer molecules, the mesoporous MXene catalyst features silica pillars inserted between its stacked two-dimensional layers, allowing polymers to flow more easily and increasing reaction rates nearly twofold. Tested on low-density polyethylene (LDPE), a common plastic, the catalyst not only accelerated the conversion but also improved fuel quality by producing liquid fuels efficiently while minimizing unwanted byproducts like methane. The success of this catalyst is attributed to the stabilization of ruthenium nanoparticles within the MXene layers, which enhances both speed and selectivity in the plastic-to-fuel conversion. This advancement points to a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly method for plastic upcycling, turning plastic waste into valuable fuels and chemicals rather than letting it accumulate as