The acetolysis technology for waste polyester fibers is characterized by simplicity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.However, challenges emerge when processing polyester-cotton blends, as the cotton component canno...The acetolysis technology for waste polyester fibers is characterized by simplicity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.However, challenges emerge when processing polyester-cotton blends, as the cotton component cannot enduremore aggressive chemical conditions due to its distinct chemical properties. To overcome this, we now employthe concept of "acetylation" for a mild cotton-stripping pretreatment. During acetylation, the cotton componentgradually dissolves in the acetic acid solution, forming a homogeneous solution, while the polyester fiber remainsin solid form, thereby ensuring efficient separation (removal rate exceeding 90%). The entire process utilizes inexpensivebulk chemicals and is straightforward to operate. Given the similarity in the solvent system, this approachis termed the extended acetolysis system. Comprehensive techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessmentindicate that, even when benchmarked against petroleum-based pricing, the extended acetolysis system can achieveeconomic viability alongside appreciable environmental benefits.展开更多
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(22279125,22478374),Anhui Provincial Development and Reform Commission’s 2023 Task List for Enhancing Industrial Fundamental Capabilities:Chemical Depolymerization Processes and Equipment for Polyester Materials.
文摘The acetolysis technology for waste polyester fibers is characterized by simplicity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.However, challenges emerge when processing polyester-cotton blends, as the cotton component cannot enduremore aggressive chemical conditions due to its distinct chemical properties. To overcome this, we now employthe concept of "acetylation" for a mild cotton-stripping pretreatment. During acetylation, the cotton componentgradually dissolves in the acetic acid solution, forming a homogeneous solution, while the polyester fiber remainsin solid form, thereby ensuring efficient separation (removal rate exceeding 90%). The entire process utilizes inexpensivebulk chemicals and is straightforward to operate. Given the similarity in the solvent system, this approachis termed the extended acetolysis system. Comprehensive techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessmentindicate that, even when benchmarked against petroleum-based pricing, the extended acetolysis system can achieveeconomic viability alongside appreciable environmental benefits.
