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Chemical Recycling

Concept

About

Chemical recycling is a cutting-edge process that breaks down plastic waste into its fundamental components, such as monomers, allowing for the creation of new plastics. This method is crucial for handling complex plastics that are difficult to recycle through traditional mechanical means. Chemical recycling involves several technologies, including depolymerization, pyrolysis, and gasification, which use heat, solvents, or catalysts to transform plastic waste into raw materials or fuels. These technologies can convert plastic waste into virgin-like materials or feedstocks for petrochemical production, enhancing the circularity of plastic use. While chemical recycling offers potential environmental benefits by reducing plastic waste, it also raises concerns regarding energy consumption and emissions. As the technology evolves, it is essential to assess its sustainability and scalability in reducing plastic pollution effectively.