Abstract:

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is common in plastic products, and its recycling by mechanical or chemical methods can effectively reduce environmental pollution and energy consumption. However, the chemical recycling method has not been extensively used because of the complexity of product separation. Therefore, electrocatalysis was combined with PET recycling by utilizing renewable energy as the driving force. Nickel foam was used as the working electrode to oxidize glycol, producing glycolaldehyde and sodium glycolate, which were further oxidized to obtain sodium oxalate. This reaction is economically beneficial and reduces energy consumption. Moreover, the innovative experiment is interdisciplinary, involving various fundamental experimental methods, and improves the understanding of students. In addition, it helps students understand the concept of green chemistry and sustainable development, which expands their professional horizon and stimulates their research interests.

Key words: Electro-oxidation, Polyethylene terephthalate, Ester hydrolysis, Terephthalic acid, Sodium oxalate