Alternative to Incineration and Landfilling for PTFE
Tribochemical Method for Degradation of Polymers in Water
Tags: IIT Madras, India, Energy & Environment, Industrial Automation & Manufacturing
IIT Madras has developed a tribochemical method to degrade polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in water using common metals and carbohydrates. This process involves stirring PTFE pellets with glucose in a metal vessel at 60–70°C for up to 30 days, inducing triboelectric charging and metal ion interactions that break down the polymer. The method significantly degrades PTFE, producing nanoplastics in solution, offering an alternative to incineration and landfilling. It has potential applications in sustainable waste management and the manufacturing of kitchen appliances. The technology has received a granted patent (Patent No. 378255) and is currently at the proof-of-concept stage.
IP Type or Form Factor: Patent Granted; Process & Method
TRL: 3 - proof of concept with needs validated
Industry or Tech Area: Plastic Waste & Recycling; Sustainable Raw Materials
