Fe3O4-boosted MWCNT as an efficient sustainable catalyst for PET glycolysis†
Abstract
This study focuses on the utilization of Fe3O4-boosted multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) as a sustainable, easily recoverable and a robust catalyst in the glycolysis of PET. A maximum yield (100%) of bis(2-hydroxyethyl)terephthalate (BHET) was achieved using Fe3O4-boosted MWCNT, which was higher than any other catalyst used in PET glycolysis with regard to the BHET yield. The extraordinary performance of the prepared Fe3O4-boosted MWCNT is attributed to the synergetic effect induced by both magnetite and MWCNT in the catalytic glycolysis of PET. With regard to sustainability, the catalyst endures the glycolysis process conditions for at least eight sequential runs. The reaction mechanism of PET glycolysis using Fe3O4-boosted MWCNT has also been proposed.