News

Quantitative Analyses of Products and Rates in Polyethylene Depolymerization and Upcycling

Recent publication from members in our group detail techniques for product recovery of polyethylene depolymerization, characterization and quantification of hydrocarbon products in complex mixtures, quantitative analysis of reaction selectivity for alkanes versus aromatics, and enumeration of depolymerization rates using average rates of C–C bond scission. Read the publication here. 

Recent publication from the Scott Group demonstrates improvement in their innovative process that turns polyolefins into high-value alkylaromatics

In the original process of turning polyethylene into long chain alkylaromatics, the platinum on alumina catalyst was slow and the yield of products low. In the improved process, the speed and selectivity of the reaction is enhanced by increasing the acidity of the alumina via the addition of chlorine or fluorine. 

AIChE - CRE Webinar: Catalytic Depolymerization: Strategies for Chemical Recycling of Waste Plastics

Professor Susannah Scott discusses challenges and opportunities in chemical recycling of waste plastics in March 2020.

Susannah Scott Elected Chair, University of California Academic Senate, Santa Barbara Division

Professor Susannah Scott was elected as the Chair of the Santa Barbara Division of the University of California Academic Senate; She will take office in Fall 2020.

Read more about the UCSB Academic Senate.

University of Houston's "The Future of Plastics" Symposium

Professor Susannah Scott discusses the promises of polymer upcycling and the future of plastics at the UH Energy Symposium Series in November 2019.

Watch the symposium here!