Photocatalytic conversion of waste plastics to low carbon number organic products

As a great threat to all livings on earth, waste artificial plastics now are everywhere, from oceans to our cells [1]. The world cannot withstand the growing waste plastic in million tonnes every year, which has already caused environmental pollution and economic losses [2]. Besides the efforts for preparing novel plastics with the self-decomposition ability, methods are needed to clear away these waste plastics leftover from history or recycle well this organic carbon resource [3]. Photocatalysis is a potential solution for the conversion of waste plastics under mild conditions. In this perspective, we highlight the effect of photocatalytic approaches toward the generation of low carbon number organic products (Cn products, n ≤ 8) from waste plastics, which can proceed under an inert or aerobic atmosphere. Notably, critical analysis of the carbon source in products is necessary to reveal the active species for the C–X bonds (X = C, N, and O) cleavage of plastics. Finally, we outline potential avenues for further development of this emerging field to enhance the yield of Cn (n ≤ 8) products from waste plastics.