Depolymerization of End-of-Life Poly(bisphenol A carbonate) via Transesterification with Acetic Anhydride as Depolymerization Reagent

The chemical recycling, a combination of depolymerization and polymerization processes, of end-of-life plastics/polymers can contribute to a more sustainable, resource-conserving and environmental-benign society. In this regard, we have set up a capable procedure for the chemical recycling of the bisphenol A unit of poly(bisphenol A carbonate). In more detail, acetic acid or acetic anhydride were used as depolymerization reagent in the DMAP-catalyzed conversion of end-of-life poly(bisphenol A carbonate) to obtain bisphenol A diacetate as well-defined product. Moreover, it was demonstrated that bisphenol A diacetate in combination with diphenyl carbonate can be applied in the potassium tert-butoxide catalyzed synthesis of new poly(bisphenol A carbonate). In consequence a recycling of poly(bisphenol A carbonate) is feasible.