b'Macromolecule RadiolysisHarnessing ionizing radiation to convert energy to molecules adds value to Using Radical Precursors low-value macromolecules as they are broken down into smaller, more easily separated feedstocks or fuels before being converted to a value-added product.T he net-zero energy future depends on reusing carbon-based macromolecules and recycling waste products into higher value products. Converting macromolecules into liquid fuel or chemical feedstocks is challenging due to their large and sometimes heterogeneous network of polymeric TOTAL APPROVED AMOUNT:bonds. This project tested the hypothesis that macromolecular materials can be $125,000 over 1 year infused with radical capping donors, and gamma irradiation of the resulting mixtures PROJECT NUMBER:will produce ensembles of lower-molecular weight chemicals that can be more 20A1049-007 easily separated. The conversion chemistry was optimized by adjusting feedstock composition, irradiation time, and choice of radical capping donor to explore the PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR:different impacts of each of these materials on the radiolysis products. The results Brittany Hodges show that radiolysis of macromolecules in the presence of radical capping donors CO-INVESTIGATORS: can break down complex macromolecules into smaller molecules while controlling Christopher Zarzana, INL re-polymerization. This research offers a new cost-efficient way to use radiation Gary Groenewold, INL and heat byproducts of nuclear energy production to convert a simple mixture of complex molecules into a complex mixture of small molecules that can be used as an energy source or as potential feedstocks for new polymers or commodity chemicals.This project demonstrated foundational molecular research for a potential new application of waste radiation and heat energy from nuclear energy production to convert waste products like plastics and biomass into potential new feedstocks to help offset the cost of spent fuel storage and management. This project offers a new process for converting lower value materials that are not cost-competitive or come with undesirable negative environmental impacts into higher-value feedstocks for commodity chemicals or liquid energy sources.Control and irradiated sample comparison. Solvents tested were water, methanol, and water + 10% formic acid. Comprehensive gas chromatography mass spectroscopy shows significant differences between irradiated and unirradiated samples, with the most spectral changes in the methanol sample.84'