Tohoku University · Environmental Science
Professor Chuan Ma's research lab specializes in advanced thermal conversion and catalytic recycling of plastic wastes, with a strong focus on halogenated and sulfur-based polymers. The lab investigates pyrolysis and co-pyrolysis processes to transform end-of-life plastics into valuable chemicals such as BTX (benzene, toluene, xylene), phenolic compounds, and high-purity phenol, while minimizing bromine and other hazardous byproducts. Key research directions include catalyst design—particularly hierarchical zeolites and biochar—for selective product formation, and the use of in-situ analytical techniques like Py-GC/MS, XPS, and ESR to understand degradation mechanisms. The lab also explores the integration of waste streams (e.g., waste tires, epoxy PCBs) to enhance resource recovery and support circular economy goals.
Figures are computed from collected data and may differ slightly.
Plastic waste has emerged as a serious issue due to its impact on environmental degradation and resource scarcity. Plastic recycling, especially of halogen-containing plastics, presents challenges due to potential secondary pollution and lower-value implementations. Chemical recycling via pyrolysis is the most versatile and robust approach for combating plastic waste. In this Review, we present recent advancements in halogen-plastic pyrolysis for resource utilization and the potential pathways f
Three zeolite materials (HY, Hβ, and HZSM-5) and two mesoporous solids (all-silica MCM-41 and active Al2O3) with different textural properties were investigated for their catalytic effects on the pyrolysis of brominated acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (Br-ABS). The results indicated that, in the absence of a catalyst, the maximum liquid yield was obtained from the pyrolysis of Br-ABS, including oil and wax. The addition of HY and Hβ zeolites significantly decreased the oil yield from 63.6 to 45
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