A viable approach for polymer upcycling of polystyrene (styrofoam) wastes to produce high value predetermined organic compounds

Styrofoam is generated mainly from polystyrene (PS) and has been used worldwide because of its low manufacturing cost and excellent physical properties such as lightweight, water resistance, high impact resistance, and durability. Styrofoam has been used for various applications in our lives, which are packaging goods, storage of chemical materials, producing plates, cups, and miniature electronic devices. The extensive use of styrofoam generates huge polystyrene wastes, causing enormous pollution not only to the environment but also to animal and human health. To minimize the styrofoam wastes from the environment, here we attempt to upcycle the discarded styrofoam materials into predetermine high-value acylated styrene (AS), 1-(4-vinylphenyl) ethanone, and brominated styrene (BS), 1‑bromo-4-vinylbenzene, organic compounds. Styrofoam is first functionalized by acyl and bromine groups to produce the acylated polystyrene (PSA) and brominated polystyrene (PSB). After photo-triggered depolymerization, upcycled organic AS and BS compounds are produced. We believe that our work will inspire researchers and waste management organizations not only to recycle styrofoam waste but also to generate more upcycled polystyrene-based high-value organic compounds using more sustainable and economical approaches.