Universities Aim to Turn Plastic Into Hydrogen

Article written by Robin Whitlock

Researchers from the Universities of Oxford and Cardiff are working with CarbonMeta Research Ltd to turn plastic waste into clean hydrogen fuel and high-value carbon nanomaterials.

CarbonMeta Technologies is commercializing breakthrough technology from the University of Oxford called ‘microwave catalysis’. The company is making plans to process waste plastic at scale in custom-designed microwave machines which will yield high-value products for industry.

One metric ton of plastic mixed with 200 kg of iron powder catalyst can selectively produce enough hydrogen to heat approximately 200 homes, and can yield 900 kg of graphite and carbon nanotubes, which can be used to build battery technology for powering electric vehicles.