Knowridge: Scientists turn greenhouse gas into plastics
UC engineering professor is developing new ways of making in-demand chemical
Knowridge Science Report highlighted a University of Cincinnati engineer's innovative methods to convert carbon dioxide into ethylene, a chemical compound that is used in diverse manufacturing processes around the world.
Associate Professor Jingjie Wu in UC's College of Engineering and Applied Science and his research partners developed an efficient method for converting carbon dioxide to ethylene, a key ingredient in plastics and many other uses.
Ethylene has been called “the world’s most important chemical,” used in everything from textiles to antifreeze to vinyl. The chemical industry generated 225 million metric tons of ethylene in 2022.
Wu said the process holds promise for one day producing ethylene through green energy instead of fossil fuels. It has the added benefit of removing carbon from the atmosphere.
His research team's findings were published in the journal Nature Chemical Engineering.
UC chemical engineering in the news
In his chemical engineering lab, Associate Professor Jingjie Wu is refining a process that converts carbon dioxide into ethylene. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand
- Technology Networks: Conversion turns greenhouse gas into ethylene
- Chemical Processing: UC researchers ID path to more efficient ethylene production
- AZO Cleantech: A system that is more effective in handling climate change
Related Stories
News Cincinnati loved in 2025
January 2, 2026
The story of prohibition bootlegger George Remus was among WLWT's favorite segments in 2025. UC Law Professor Christopher Bryant spoke with journalist Lindsay Stone about Remus using a temporary insanity defense during a murder trial.
What to know about this year’s big tax changes
January 2, 2026
Local 12 reported that taxpayers can expect some major changes this tax season. Gary Friedhoff, adjunct instructor at the University of Cincinnati’s Carl H. Lindner College of Business, recently spoke to Local 12 about how to avoid surprises.
Study finds police officers face higher long-term health risks
January 2, 2026
J.C. Barnes, a University of Cincinnati professor, is interviewed by Spectrum News about new research showing that the physical and psychological demands of law enforcement can contribute to earlier deaths.