Mechanistic insights into photocatalytic poly(styrene) degradation and acetyl radical formation enabled by the uranyl cation

<jats:p>New ways to upcycle poly(styrene) continue to be of growing interest. Use of the uranyl cation as a photooxidant for the photochemical degradation of poly(styrene) results in a variety of benzoyl products (&gt;30% total carbon conversion after 24 h) and the unexpected formation of a significant amount of benzene. In addition, we demonstrate that uranyl photocatalyst generates acetonyl and acetyl radicals from the reaction solvent, acetone, under visible light and at room temperature. Coupled with small molecule model studies, we present a comprehensive mechanism for benzene formation and overall poly(styrene) degradation.</jats:p>