1: New Technology is able to break down polyethylene
- Researchers found a way to breakdown the bonds of polyethylene (ex: bottles, bags, and films) into useful liquid fuels and waxes
- New technique is less toxic and less energy-intensive than traditional approaches which can break down the polymers’ chemical bonds
- Innovative technique uses alkanes to scramble and separate the polymer molecules into other compounds.
- Substances needed for the technology are byproducts from oil refinement and are readily available and no pre-treatment is required
2. Technology Problem is Solving
- Large volume of synthetic plastic use in the modern world has led to serious environmental problems
- Creating a new source of liquid fuel and address the issue of plastic pollution
- Current method to rework the plastic is to head to over 700 degrees Fahrenheit so implantation of this new approach will be energy saving
3. Technology Stakeholders
- All consumers of plastic polyethylene products
- Oil refineries whose by products will be used
- Treatment facilities who currently break down polyethylene
- Mother Nature who won’t be so polluted 🙂
4. Implementing Technology
- Complete full pilot program utilizing the new technique to prove full capability
- Partner with oil refinery to receive steady supply of by products needed
- Roll out full scale across the countries and begin to measure energy savings across facilities
Article: http://www.sustainablebrands.com/news_and_views/chemistry_materials/sustainable_brands/chemists_find_new_way_turn_most_common_plastic
Awesome idea! I wonder if there is any health risk in this process…
LikeLike