# CAS: Deconstructing Mixed Plastic, Biomass and Food Waste via Organosulfur Chemistry

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Clemson University (SC) · $590,484

## Abstract

With the support of the Macromolecular, Supramolecular, and Nanochemistry Program in the Division of Chemistry, Dr. Rhett C. Smith of Clemson University will investigate a new method for converting agricultural and plastic waste into useful materials through a process called thiocracking, where sulfur and heat are used to break down organic molecules. This research will address challenges in waste disposal, including plastics, agricultural residues, and mixed-material waste, while using excess sulfur, a byproduct of fossil fuel refining. Thiocracking could transform these waste streams into recyclable materials for construction and infrastructure, reducing landfill waste, and benefiting the U.S. economy. The project will also support education by training graduate and undergraduate students, collaborating with primarily undergraduate institutions, and sharing findings with the public through social media and open-access publications where possible.

The project will specifically explore a two-step thiocracking-desulfurization sequence to break down complex waste streams and recover valuable organic products. In the first step, thiocracking will be used to induce depolymerization and conversion into polymeric composites. These composites will then be assessed for mechanical properties and recyclability, with a focus on their potential applications as structural materials. The second step will employ catalytic hydrodesulfurization to remove sulfur and recover hydrocarbons. Th

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2505667
- **Awardee organization:** Clemson University (SC)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** H2BMNX7DSKU8
- **PI:** Rhett C Smith
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** CAS-Critical Aspects of Sustainability, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES
- **Estimated total:** $590,484
- **Funds obligated:** $590,484
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2505667

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2505667, CAS: Deconstructing Mixed Plastic, Biomass and Food Waste via Organosulfur Chemistry. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2505667. Licensed CC0.

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