Chemical Recycling of Polycarbonates via Ammonolysis and Polycaprolactones by KOH-Catalyzed Methanolysis

Chemical recycling polymer waste is a highly required technology to follow the current carbon-neutral trend. Here, we present practical recycling methods for poly (bisphenol A carbonate) (PC) and poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL). PC can be converted to bisphenol A and urea with excellent product yield at 80 degrees C via ammonolysis using ammonium salt (ammonium-formate or -carbonate) instead of liquid ammonia that is usually used in previous PC recycling. PCL can be converted to methyl 6-hydroxy-hexanoate monomer with excellent yield at 80 degrees C via methanolysis catalyzed by KOH.