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Caltech's Breakthrough Boosts CO2 to Plastic Efficiency to 14%

7/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Caltech researchers have unveiled an innovative two-stage process that enhances CO2 utilization for plastic production, reaching an impressive 14% efficiency. By harnessing electrocatalysis and thermocatalysis, they transform CO2 into carbon monoxide and ethylene, paving the way for polyketone creation. Yet, the quality of these polyketones still leaves much to be desired.

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Story summary

Caltech researchers have unveiled an innovative two-stage process that enhances CO2 utilization for plastic production, reaching an impressive 14% efficiency. By harnessing electrocatalysis and thermocatalysis, they transform CO2 into carbon monoxide and ethylene, paving the way for polyketone creation. Yet, the quality of these polyketones still leaves much to be desired.