摘要：Consumption of plastic products has increased dramatically over the past few decades. This trend results in the generation of a vast waste stream that needs to be properly managed to avoid environmental damage. Increasingly stringent European legislation is setting new standards that promote the application of novel recycling technologies capable of absorbing large amounts of plastic wastes. An option with great potential is feedstock recycling, which includes a variety of processes like pyrolysis, catalytic conversion, depolymerisation and gasification, designed to transform plastic waste into hydrocarbon products for use in the preparation of recycled polymers, refined chemicals or fuels. This paper summarises the current situation regarding the generation of plastic residues in Europe and provides a general view of alternative recycling methods. Up-to-date information is also included on commercial or demonstration recycling activities currently in operation, paying special attention to the development and application of novel catalytic feedstock recycling processes.
