What Are the Challenges and Innovations in Catalysis for Plastics?
While catalysis has revolutionized plastic production and recycling, several challenges remain. One major issue is the deactivation of catalysts over time due to impurities in raw materials or reaction by-products, which necessitates frequent catalyst regeneration or replacement. Innovations in green chemistry are driving the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly catalysts. For example, researchers are exploring biocatalysts and enzyme-based catalysts for polymerization and recycling processes, which offer the potential for lower energy consumption and reduced environmental impact.
