Illustration Explaining the Mechanism of Tandem Catalytic Hydrocracking (Provided By Korea University)

By Ko Sukyoung sugar3241@korea.ac.kr

Korea University (KU) researchers have developed a procedure that converts waste plastics into high-value fuels without relying on external hydrogen injection. Led by Professor Ro Insoo (Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering) and Professor Won Wangyun (Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering), the team developed a tandem catalytic process for hydrocracking, a method that breaks long plastic chains into smaller fuel-like molecules using hydrogen. This process uses decalin, a type of liquid organic hydrogen carrier that can store and release hydrogen during the reaction. This approach addresses key limitations of conventional recycling methods, which often require high energy input and additional hydrogen sources.

Moreover, the development of Pt/HZSM-5, a catalyst that speeds up the reaction and controls how plastic molecules are broken down, enabled the system to decompose over 90 percent of polyethylene, with more than 70 percent of the output converted into gasoline and jet fuel. Compared to traditional processes, the method reduced greenhouse gas emissions significantly, lowering the environmental impact to nearly half that of petroleum-based fuel production. In addition, the estimated production cost of approximately 3.5 United States Dollars (USD) per gallon suggests strong economic feasibility. Supported by national research institutions, the study demonstrates both environmental and commercial potential. This research reflects KU’s continuing efforts to contribute to the sustainability movement through practical innovation.
출처 : 고려대학교 고파스 2026-04-21 10:04:30: