Lewis-acid induced mechanochemical degradation of polyvinylidene fluoride: transformation into valuable products

Abstract

Polyvinylidene fluoride (–[CH₂CF₂]_n–, PVDF) waste poses significant environmental challenges due to its recalcitrant nature and widespread use. This study addresses the end-of-life management of PVDF by introducing a novel, sustainable mechanochemical approach for its valorisation. We investigated the degradation of PVDF into value-added materials using ball milling with anhydrous AlCl₃ to achieve a quantitative mineralisation producing AlF₃ and halide-functionalised graphite, along with gaseous products (HCl and CH₄). Mechanistic key steps involve Lewis-acid catalysed C–F bond activation, dehydrofluorination and aromatisation. This approach provides an effective solution for PVDF waste management while offering a promising route for the production of high-value materials from polymer waste streams. Our findings contribute to sustainable practices in polymer recycling and resource recovery, respond to pressing environmental concerns associated with fluoropolymer disposal, and demonstrate the potential to convert polymer wastes into useful products.