Practical method for PCB degradation using Pd/C–H2–Mg system

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were mainly used as lubricants and coolants in electrical equipment. However, their chemical stabilities as well as hydrophobic properties caused persistent environmental pollution and damage to human health based on their bioaccumulative property. PCBs are currently targeted for worldwide elimination and should be disposed by 2028 based on the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. The conventional PCB degradation methods require high-heat, high-pressure or/and strongly basic conditions. The development of a safer and more practical method, therefore, is desired. We have reported a catalytic degradation method of PCBs based on a palladium on carbon (Pd/C)-catalyzed dechlorination in the presence of Et3N under ambient hydrogen pressure and temperature. In this study, we demonstrate a more practical system using magnesium metal instead of Et3N for the dechlorination of a variety of aromatic chlorides. The method was applicable for the complete degradation of a variety of PCB mixtures, such as Aroclor 1242, 1248, 1254 and PCBs removed from a capacitor to produce only biphenyl and magnesium chloride as the maritime component, both of which are less toxic and easily separable. Moreover, the Pd/C could be recovered and reused at least five times without any loss of catalytic activity. The present Pd/C–Mg–H2 system is a simple, safe, inexpensive, and environmentally-benign degradation method of PCBs.

► A new catalytic PCB hydrodechlorination method using the 10% Pd/C–H2–Mg combination.
► Ordinary hydrogen pressures and temperatures.
► This method was applicable for the complete degradation of a variety of PCB mixtures.
► The Pd/C could be recovered and reused at least five times.
► This reaction produces only the less toxic biphenyl and magnesium chloride.