Innovative recycling method can convert waste PET into high-quality raw materials and clean hydrogen

Despite polyethylene terephthalate (PET) being one of the most widely recycled plastics, only about 20% of used PET bottles are actually recovered as high-quality raw materials. The majority are transformed into lower-grade fibers or fillers before eventually being discarded. Addressing this gap, researchers at UNIST have developed a novel chemical recycling process that not only restores PET to its original high-grade form but also produces valuable chemicals and clean hydrogen, all under mild conditions.