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