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Rewriting the reactivity rules: A new catalyst for recycling mixed plastics

Japanese researchers have developed a catalyst that selectively degrades polyurethane in mixed plastic waste, allowing for the separation and chemical recycling of complex materials. The breakthrough opens up new possibilities for waste management, particularly in industries such as end-of-life vehicle recycling and mattress disposal.

SourceKyushu University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2026

Cleaning up clean energy

University of Delaware researchers have developed a spray-jet method that recovers precious metals and other materials from used hydrogen-energy devices. The new recycling approach uses no harsh chemicals or burning, preserving the membrane itself while extracting platinum and iridium separately.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateJul 7, 2026

Engineers slash iridium use in electrolyzer catalyst by 80%, boosting path to affordable green hydrogen

Researchers at Rice University developed a new catalyst that reduces iridium needed in proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers, maintaining industrial-level performance for over 1,500 hours. The innovation uses just one-sixth as much iridium as conventional systems, addressing a significant economic and supply chain bottleneck.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 13, 2025

New porous crystal catalyst offers durable, efficient solution for clean hydrogen production

A new catalyst structure featuring mesoporous single-crystalline Co3O4 doped with atomically dispersed iridium (Ir) has been proposed as a potential pathway toward cost-effective hydrogen production. The material achieves efficient use of Ir while maintaining stability, reducing leaching during reaction.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 23, 2025