Virginia Tech researchers transform PVC plastic into premium lubricating oil

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a method to transform polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a notoriously difficult plastic to recycle, into high-quality lubricating oil. The chemical process, led by Guoliang “Greg” Liu and detailed in the journal Nature, addresses the challenges posed by the chlorine and various additives found in PVC products like pipes, window frames, and flooring.

The team's approach involves removing chlorine from the PVC and then breaking down the long plastic chains into shorter molecules. The resulting product is a high-grade base oil comparable to polyalphaolefins, which are commonly used in high-performance oils for engines, machinery, and turbines. This technique provides a way to utilize the carbon in waste PVC rather than allowing it to be incinerated or sent to landfills.