Catalyst- and solvent-free depolymerization of poly(bisphenol A carbonate): aminolysis

Abstract

This study presents a sustainable strategy for the chemical recycling of bisphenol A polycarbonate (BPA-PC) via amine-induced depolymerization under solvent- and catalyst-free conditions. Comparative investigations of thermal and mechanochemical protocols revealed that BPA-PC undergoes efficient cleavage in the presence of only amines, yielding the bisphenol A (BPA) monomer and high-value urea derivatives. Importantly, the catalyst-free protocol proved to be highly effective for post-consumer BPA-PC waste containing additives and contaminants. Direct aminolysis of commercial items—including safety goggles, compact discs, and automotive components—achieved high depolymerization efficiency, enabling quantitative recovery of both monomers and urea products. The operational simplicity, broad substrate tolerance, and high efficiency underscore the environmental and economic advantages of this green approach for BPA-PC recycling.