Electrocatalytic Upcycling of Biomass and Plastic Wastes to Biodegradable Polymer Monomers and Hydrogen Fuel at High Current Densities

Transformation of biomass and plastic wastes to value-added chemicals and fuels is considered an upcycling process that is beneficial to resource utilization. Electrocatalysis offers a sustainable approach; however, it remains a huge challenge to increase the current density and deliver market-demanded chemicals with high selectivity. Herein, we demonstrate an electrocatalytic strategy for upcycling glycerol (from biodiesel byproduct) to lactic acid and ethylene glycol (from polyethylene terephthalate waste) to glycolic acid, with both products being as valuable monomers for biodegradable polymer production. By using a nickel hydroxide-supported gold electrocatalyst (Au/Ni(OH)2), we achieve high selectivities…

• NN
  National Natural Science Foundation of China

  Awards: 22090031, 21991102, 22108008, 21978147, 22105026, 21935001
• NS
  Natural Science Foundation of Beijing Municipality

  Awards: JQ22003, 2214063
• CU
  Central University Basic Research Fund of China

  Award: buctrc202011