Low-temp molten-salt chemistry turns plastic waste into fuels
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a low-temperature process (<200°C) that uses aluminum-containing molten salts as both reaction medium and catalyst to convert polyethylene into gasoline- and diesel-like fuels, achieving about 60% gasoline yield without noble metals, external hydrogen, solvents, or initiators. Simpler polymers trend toward gasoline products, while more complex chains yield diesel; the method could scale to boost energy security, but moisture sensitivity of the salts presents stability challenges. A patent has been filed and further work is needed for commercialization.