Aryl sulfonic acid catalysts: Effect of pendant group structure on activity in hydrolysis of polyethylene terephthalate

Abstract A series of aryl sulfonic acids were tested as catalysts for acid hydrolysis occurring at the surface poly(ethylene) terephthalate (PET) particles. Specifically, p‐toluenesulfonic monohydrate (PTSA), 2‐naphthalenesulfonic (2‐NSA), and 1,5‐naphthalenedisulfonic tetrahydrate (1,5‐NDSA) chosen to provide active groups varying hydrophobic functionality. The effect catalyst concentration reaction temperature on PET rate was studied. exhibited much higher rates than mineral acid, H 2 SO 4 . At 150°C M catalyst, time required achieve more 90% TPA yield 3, 8 h, 18 h (1,5‐NDSA), , respectively. Ethyl acetate performed a model probe activity in homogenous reactions compare with heterogenous surface. catalytic activities PTSA, 2‐NSA, 1,5‐NDSA attributed improved wetting by media affinity