Efficient thermal approach for producing reduced graphene oxide from ethylene glycol derived from PET waste

This research focuses on the conversion of an ethylene glycol solution – one of the hydrolysis products of PET waste – into reduced graphene oxide (rGO), a high-value product, through thermal processes. According to characterization methods, FT-IR spectrum analysis revealed aromatic C = C, C – H, and – COOH bonds in the material. Raman spectroscopy indicated G and D peaks related to the rGO structure. EDX elemental analysis showed 77.33% carbon, 20.91% oxygen, and 1.77% sulfur. SEM images exhibited thick, rough layers and bud-like structures. The C1s XPS spectrum of rGO showed oxygen-free ring C (284.1 eV) and oxidized carbon (C – O at 285.4 eV, C = O, O – C = O at 288.6 eV). This study successfully produced reduced graphene oxide using a simple, rapid, one-step method, creating new opportunities for recycling PET, a significant plastic waste. Recycling PET waste from plastic bottles can provide economic and environmental benefits, making high-value products from plastic recycling more attractive.