Published June 22, 2024 | Version v1
Publication Open

From rags to riches: Converting cellulose containing waste to 5-(chloromethyl)furfural (CMF)

  • 1. Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam
  • 2. ROR icon Avantium (Netherlands)

Description

This study proposes a chemical recycling pathway for valorizing the cellulosic component of municipal waste
streams such as textile, cleaning wipes, corrugated cardboard, contaminated cardboard (i.e. a pizza box), paper-
plastic laminate (PPL) coffee cups and cigarette butts (CBs). The goal of this study is to establish an experimental
procedure that allows to test a broad range of cellulose-containing waste materials, laying the groundwork for
commercial deployment of their chemical recycling. The cellulose contained in these materials is transformed
into 5-chloromethylfurfural (CMF), a precursor for bio-based plastics, without affecting the plastic counterpart (if
present). We employ a biphasic system concept using aqueous HCl solutions for CMF formation and in situ
extraction from the reaction medium using immiscible organic solvents, enabling straightforward product separation.
This method allows to hydrolyze cellulosic materials from waste without affecting PET or polyolefin
plastic also present, facilitating the subsequent recycling of this plastic as well. This study serves as a foundation
to assess the feasibility of using cellulose-containing waste streams for chemical recycling and to offer recommendations
on selecting optimal reaction procedures.

Files

Moron et al._Waste Management Bulletin_2024.pdf

Files (3.5 MB)

Additional details

Funding

European Commission
PEFerence – From bio-based feedstocks via di-acids to multiple advanced bio-based materials with a preference for polyethylene furanoate 744409