Hydrogen Generation from PS and PE Microplastics via UV Photocatalysis

UV-driven photolysis and TiO ₂ -based photocatalysis are explored as potential pathways for hydrogen generation from polystyrene and polyethylene microplastics. The study compares the behavior of PS, LDPE, and HDPE under UVC irradiation, focusing on how polymer structure, surface properties, and reaction conditions influence hydrogen evolution. Thermodynamic considerations, polymer–photocatalyst interactions, and system-level effects such as particle dispersion and light accessibility are examined to clarify the factors governing reactivity. By addressing both photochemical and hydrodynamic aspects of microplastic conversion, this work provides insight into the opportunities and challenges of using UV-based processes for hydrogen recovery from plastic waste.