We demonstrate that for polyethylene depolymerization
with induction
heating (IH), using a bifunctional (Pt- or Pt–Sn-containing
zeolite) hydrocracking catalyst, we can obtain high hydrocarbon product
yields (up to 95 wt % in 2 h) at a relatively low surface temperature
(375 °C) and with a tunable product distribution ranging from
light gas products to gasoline- to diesel-range hydrocarbons. Four
zeolite types [MFI, LTL, CHA(SSZ-13), and TON] were chosen as the
supports due to their varying pore sizes and structures. These depolymerization
results are obtained at atmospheric pressure and without the use of
H2and result in an alkane/alkene mixture with virtually
no methane, aromatics, or coke formation. We also demonstrate how
IH helps overcome diffusional resistances associated with conventional
thermal heating and thereby shortens reaction times.