Innovation Converts Fossil Fuels into Plastics and Pharmaceuticals Using Light
Washington, 22 Jun (ONA) --- A scientific team from Colorado State University has developed a groundbreaking method to transform fossil fuels into industrial chemicals using only visible light, eliminating the need for high heat or pressure.
This technology represents a significant advancement toward more sustainable and cleaner chemical manufacturing. Operating at room temperature, it substantially reduces energy consumption and emissions associated with conventional chemical production.
The method, which relies on photocatalysis rather than thermal energy, could revolutionize industries that utilize arenes—chemical compounds found in fossil fuels—such as plastics, pharmaceuticals, and specialty materials manufacturing.
The team designed a catalytic system inspired by photosynthesis in plants. By exposing chemical compounds to visible light, the process triggers the desired reactions without requiring heat or harsh reagents, making it both safer and more efficient. These reactions take place within the university’s Center for Sustainable Photoredox Catalysis (SuPRCat).
A key feature of this new system is its ability to harness two photons (light particles) simultaneously. While a single photon lacks sufficient energy to drive certain reactions, the dual-photon approach provides the necessary energy to break strong molecular bonds—a process known as "super-reduction."
The team successfully tested the technology on aromatic hydrocarbons, known for their chemical stability (organic compounds composed solely of carbon and hydrogen, characterized by one or more benzene rings in their structure). The system proved effective in converting them into usable industrial compounds.
Beyond reducing energy use and emissions, this innovation also lowers production costs by enabling reactions at ambient temperatures, eliminating the need for heating, pressurization, or hazardous reagents. The method holds potential for manufacturing pharmaceuticals, plastics, fertilizers, and even breaking down toxic PFAS compounds, often called "forever chemicals."
--- Ends/Khalid
