Research data - team research project number 758

The project focuses on developing innovative sorbents for the removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by utilizing difficult-to-recycle composite waste, such as polyethylene-coated paper cups, and biowaste, including hazelnut shells. Pyrolysis enables the simultaneous decomposition of cellulose and polymer fractions without the need for prior separation, representing a significant departure from conventional recycling methods. The obtained chars were modified with deep eutectic solvents (DES) and functional additives, including carbon nanotubes, cyclodextrins, and Fe-BDC and FeCo-BDC metal-organic frameworks. Material characterization included functional group analysis using ATR-FTIR and assessment of VOC adsorption capacity using headspace gas chromatography (GC-FID). The results demonstrated the high effectiveness of the sorbents, particularly those modified with carbon nanotubes, which provide a broad adsorption spectrum without selectivity effects. The project aligns with the principles of a circular economy, transforming waste into materials with high utility value, and provides a basis for further research and implementation on a semi-technical scale in the environmental protection sector.