American company manufactures nitrogen-rich graphene from discarded plastic materials

In an era where the United Nations warns that global plastic waste could triple by 2060 unless positive changes occur, Plastic 2 Green, a US-based company specialising in advanced materials and clean energy, is making significant strides in turning waste plastic into one of the world's most valuable resources.

The company, founded by Ed VanDyne, has developed plasma-based technologies that convert waste plastic into high-value products such as green ammonia, carbon black, and the game-changing material, nitrogen-doped graphene. This innovative product could enhance the performance of devices like supercapacitors, fuel cells, lithium-sulphur batteries, and improve the efficiency of oxygen reduction reactions.

These supercapacitors, known for their high power density, charge and discharge very quickly, unlike conventional batteries. Plastic 2 Green's technologies are being researched for use in next-generation supercapacitors, with the company funding a research team at the University of Notre Dame to explore their potential.

The company has also received a purchase order from its first customer for sample quantities, although the identity remains undisclosed. In a recent development, Plastic 2 Green has produced nitrogen-doped graphene from waste plastic in a project at Colorado State University, further demonstrating the potential of its technology.

Doping, in this context, refers to the intentional introduction of impurities, such as nitrogen, into carbon-based materials like graphene, replacing carbon atoms. This process improves the conductivity and catalytic activity of the material, depending on the type of nitrogen used. The improved properties of nitrogen-doped graphene could significantly enhance the performance of devices like supercapacitors.

Plastic 2 Green's technologies are not only environmentally friendly but also energy-efficient. They utilise renewable energy, making them a sustainable solution to plastic waste management and a promising step towards a greener future.

The company has recently raised $500,000 of its $1m pre-seed SAFE note round, with the remaining capital raise now open for other investors to participate. With the potential to revolutionise energy storage and waste management, Plastic 2 Green is poised to make a significant impact in the fight against plastic waste and the pursuit of clean energy.

Global plastic waste currently stands at 430 million tonnes annually, a figure that underscores the urgency for innovative solutions like those offered by Plastic 2 Green. As the company continues to develop its technologies and forge partnerships, it brings us one step closer to a world where waste plastic becomes a valuable resource rather than a burden.