Hydrogenolysis and bifunctional hydrocracking have emerged as promising strategies for the catalytic conversion of polyolefins into valuable short chain hydrocarbons. Metal catalysts such as Pt@SiO₂ and Ni@SiO₂, along with acidic catalysts like tungstated zirconia (WO3/ZrO2), zeolites, and bifunctional metal-encapsulated zeolites, are particularly attractive due to their hydroconversion capabilities. While significant progress has been made in batch systems, scalability remains a challenge, primarily due to limited understanding of reaction kinetics, transport phenomena, adsorption/desorption equilibria, and catalyst deactivation - all of which substantially impact conversion and products selectivity. In this study, we conducted kinetic investigations using hexatriacontane (n-C36) as a model polyolefin to evaluate the catalytic performance and product selectivity of Pt/SiO₂. We systematically varied reaction parameters such as temperature, catalyst loading, hydrogen pressure, and reaction time to elucidate their effects on reaction pathways and selectivity. Various acid catalysts were also examined. Gas chromatography was employed as the primary analytical method for characterizing reaction products. Our kinetic analyses offered valuable insights into hydrogenolysis mechanisms, demonstrating how both catalyst composition and reaction conditions directly influence catalytic activity, product selectivity, and stability. Moreover, we extended our current understanding of adsorption behavior and catalyst deactivation observed on Pt/SiO₂. These findings provide a foundational framework for the rational design of catalysts aimed at improving the efficiency of catalytic plastic waste conversion.
