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MXene photocatalysts for microplastics degradation under simulated solar illumination
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This review examined MXene-based photocatalysts for degrading microplastics under simulated solar illumination, covering synthesis methods, photocatalytic mechanisms, and performance for polyolefin and other plastic types. MXene composites showed promising degradation efficiency for otherwise difficult-to-degrade polymers under visible light.
Abstract Microplastics (MPs) pollution is a widespread and growing problem. Consequently, there is significant interest in photocatalytic degradation and/or conversion of MPs, especially in the case of polyolefins, which are the dominant type of plastic waste and which are difficult to degrade due to their stable C–C backbones. Thus, complete mineralization of polyolefins, as well as their conversion to fuel or other chemicals, is highly challenging and requires the development of novel photocatalyst materials. Here, we investigate an MXene photocatalyst for photocatalytic conversion of polyethylene (PE) plastics in aqueous solutions with and without NaOH. In the absence of NaOH, Ti 2 CT x MXene results in complete mineralization of pristine PE as well as environmental PE MPs, with CO 2 as the dominant reaction product. In contrast, with the addition of 5 M NaOH, hydrogen becomes the dominant product with a high activity exceeding 500 μ mol g cat −1 .
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Tiny plastic particles called micro- and nanoplastics are showing up everywhere, including in our bodies, and scientists are searching for ways to break them down. This review paper (which summarizes existing research rather than presenting new experiments) looks at a promising material called MXene that can absorb plastic particles and use light to help chemically destroy them. While the technology is still being developed and isn't yet ready for widespread use, it points to a potential future tool for cleaning up plastic pollution before it accumulates in our water, food, and bodies.
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