University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Selective deconstruction of polyethylene to propylene via isomerization/metathesis and 1-hexene isomerization studies

DaSilva, Vanessa

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/132720

Description

Title
Selective deconstruction of polyethylene to propylene via isomerization/metathesis and 1-hexene isomerization studies
Author(s)
DaSilva, Vanessa
Issue Date
2025-04-28
Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)
Guironnet, Damien
Doctoral Committee Chair(s)
Guironnet, Damien
Committee Member(s)
  • Kenis, Paul J. A.
  • Kuenstler, Alexa
  • Olshansky, Lisa
Department of Study
Chemical & Biomolecular Engr
Discipline
Chemical Engineering
Degree Granting Institution
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Degree Name
Ph.D.
Degree Level
Dissertation
Keyword(s)
  • Polyethylene
  • Deconstruction
  • Chemical Recycling
  • ISOMET
  • Ethenolysis
  • Propylene Selectivity
  • Catalysis
  • Polymer to Polymer Recycling Strategy
Abstract
Polyethylene (PE), the world’s most produced single-use plastic, poses a significant environmental challenge due to its chemical inertness and resistance to degradation. Traditional recycling approaches—mechanical recycling and incineration—fail to offer selective, and circular solutions for effective PE waste management. This thesis explores an alternative strategy rooted in chemical upcycling, where PE is selectively converted into propylene, a high-value monomer, via a tandem catalytic process combining dehydrogenation, isomerization and metathesis. Chapter 1 outlines the limitations of current recycling strategies and introduces chemical recycling as a promising route toward closed-loop, polymer-to-polymer reuse. Chapter 2 highlights a tandem isomerization-metathesis (ISOMET) process that enables highly selective PE deconstruction to propylene in the presence of ethylene with both homogeneous and heterogenous catalysts in a continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR). Chapter 3 focuses on the development of a kinetic understanding of 1-hexene isomerization, serving as a model PE system to capture the thermodynamic behavior of internal olefin redistribution. Finally, Chapter 4 reflects on the author’s experience as a Research Group Leader in the Summer Predoctoral Institute (SPI), highlighting the program’s role in fostering community and early graduate student success.
Graduation Semester
2025-05
Type of Resource
Thesis
Handle URL
https://hdl.handle.net/2142/132720
Copyright and License Information
Copyright 2025 Vanessa DaSilva

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