Depolymerization of End‐of‐Life Poly(bisphenol A carbonate) via Transesterification with Acetic Anhydride as Depolymerization Reagent

Abstract

AbstractThe chemical recycling, a combination of depolymerization and polymerization processes, of end‐of‐life plastics/polymers can contribute to a more sustainable, resource‐conserving and environmental‐benign society. In this regard, we have set up a capable procedure for the chemical recycling of the bisphenol A unit of poly(bisphenol A carbonate). In more detail, acetic acid or acetic anhydride were used as depolymerization reagent in the DMAP‐catalyzed conversion of end‐of‐life poly(bisphenol A carbonate) to obtain bisphenol A diacetate as well‐defined product. Moreover, it was demonstrated that bisphenol A diacetate in combination with diphenyl carbonate can be applied in the potassium tert‐butoxide catalyzed synthesis of new poly(bisphenol A carbonate). In consequence a recycling of poly(bisphenol A carbonate) is feasible.