1
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Diment WT, Gowda RR, Chen EYX. Unraveling the Mechanism of Catalyzed Melt-Phase Polyester Depolymerization via Studies of Kinetics and Model Reactions. J Am Chem Soc 2024. [PMID: 39226399 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c08127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Developing a mechanistic understanding of catalyzed melt-phase depolymerization processes is of utmost importance to the rapidly expanding field of circular polymers with a closed chemical loop. Herein, we present a methodology to probe the mechanism of metal-catalyzed melt-phase depolymerization of polyesters utilizing an approach centered on studies of kinetics by thermogravimetric analysis and model reactions. Kinetic parameters associated with the prototypical Lewis-acid-catalyzed depolymerization of representative polyesters, including poly(δ-valerolactone) (PVL), poly(lactic acid), and poly(γ-butyrolactone), are elucidated. Focusing on PVL for further investigation of the depolymerization mechanism, effects of its molar mass, topology, and end-group chemistry are examined in detail. Overall, a catalyzed ring-closing depolymerization process to monomer from the polyester hydroxyl-chain ends is proposed as the key mechanistic step, although the process has a relatively large zip length (≈ 320) and follows nonimmortal depolymerization kinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilfred T Diment
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-1872, United States
| | - Ravikumar R Gowda
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-1872, United States
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-1872, United States
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2
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Yang S, Du S, Zhu J, Ma S. Closed-loop recyclable polymers: from monomer and polymer design to the polymerization-depolymerization cycle. Chem Soc Rev 2024. [PMID: 39177226 DOI: 10.1039/d4cs00663a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
The extensive utilization of plastic, as a symbol of modern technological society, has consumed enormous amounts of finite and non-renewable fossil resources and produced huge amounts of plastic wastes in the land or ocean, and thus recycling and reuse of the plastic wastes have great ecological and economic benefits. Closed-loop recyclable polymers with inherent recyclability can be readily depolymerized into monomers with high selectivity and purity and repolymerized into polymers with the same performance. They are deemed to be the next generation of recyclable polymers and have captured great and increasing attention from academia and industry. Herein, we provide an overview of readily closed-loop recyclable polymers based on monomer and polymer design and no-other-reactant-involved reversible ring-opening and addition polymerization reactions. The state-of-the-art of circular polymers is separately summarized and discussed based on different monomers, including lactones, thiolactones, cyclic carbonates, hindered olefins, cycloolefins, thermally labile olefin comonomers, cyclic disulfides, cyclic (dithio) acetals, lactams, Diels-Alder addition monomers, Michael addition monomers, anhydride-secondary amide monomers, and cyclic anhydride-aldehyde monomers, and polymers with activatable end groups. The polymerization and depolymerization mechanisms are clearly disclosed, and the evolution of the monomer structure, the polymerization and depolymerization conditions, the corresponding polymerization yield, molecular weight, performance of the polymers, monomer recovery, and depolymerization equipment are also systematically summarized and discussed. Furthermore, the challenges and future prospects are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaiqi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China.
| | - Shuai Du
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China.
| | - Jin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, P. R. China
| | - Songqi Ma
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, P. R. China.
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3
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Shi C, Diment WT, Chen EYX. Closed-Loop Recycling of Mixed Plastics of Polyester and CO 2-Based Polycarbonate to a Single Monomer. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202405083. [PMID: 38837601 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202405083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Physical blending is an effective strategy for tailoring polymeric materials to specific application requirements. However, physically blended mixed plastics waste adds additional barriers in mechanical or chemical recycling. This difficulty arises from the intricate requirement for meticulous sorting and separation of the various polymers in the inherent incompatibility of mixed polymers during recycling. To overcome this impediment, this work furthers the emerging single-monomer - multiple-materials approach through the design of a bifunctional monomer that can not only orthogonally polymerize into two different types of polymers - specifically lactone-based polyester and CO2-based polycarbonate - but the resultant polymers and their mixture can also be depolymerized back to the single, original monomer when facilitated by catalysis. Specifically, the lactone/epoxide hybrid bifunctional monomer (BiLO) undergoes ring-opening polymerization through the lactone manifold to produce polyester, PE(BiLO), and is also applied to ring-opening copolymerization with CO2, via the epoxide manifold, to yield polycarbonate, PC(BiLO). Remarkably, a one-pot recycling process of a BiLO-derived PE/PC blend back to the constituent monomer BiLO in >99 % selectivity was achieved with a superbase catalyst at 150 °C, thereby effectively obviating the requirement for sorting and separation typically required for recycling of mixed polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changxia Shi
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80523-1872, United States
| | - Wilfred T Diment
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80523-1872, United States
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80523-1872, United States
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4
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McGraw M, Addison B, Clarke RW, Allen RD, Rorrer NA. Synergistic Dual-Cure Reactions for the Fabrication of Thermosets by Chemical Heating. ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING 2024; 12:11913-11927. [PMID: 39148515 PMCID: PMC11323266 DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.4c01965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Large composite structures, such as those used in wind energy applications, rely on the bulk polymerization of thermosets on an impressively large scale. To accomplish this, traditional thermoset polymerizations require both elevated temperatures (>100 °C) and extended cure durations (>5 h) for complete conversion, necessitating the use of oversize ovens or heated molds. In turn, these requirements lead to energy-intensive polymerizations, incurring high manufacturing costs and process emissions. In this study, we develop thermoset polymerizations that can be initiated at room temperature through a transformative "chemical heating" concept, in which the exothermic energy of a secondary reaction is used to facilitate the heating of a primary thermoset polymerization. By leveraging a redox-initiated methacrylate free radical polymerization as a source of exothermic chemical energy, we can achieve peak reaction temperatures >140 °C to initiate the polymerization of epoxy-anhydride thermosets without external heating. Furthermore, by employing Trojan horse methacrylate monomers to induce mixing between methacrylate and epoxy-anhydride domains, we achieve the synthesis of homogeneous hybrid polymeric materials with competitive thermomechanical properties and tunability. Herein, we establish a proof-of-concept for our innovative chemical heating method and advocate for its industrial integration for more energy-efficient and streamlined manufacturing of wind blades and large composite parts more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael
L. McGraw
- Renewable Resources and Enabling
Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy
Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Bennett Addison
- Renewable Resources and Enabling
Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy
Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Ryan W. Clarke
- Renewable Resources and Enabling
Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy
Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Robert D. Allen
- Renewable Resources and Enabling
Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy
Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Nicholas A. Rorrer
- Renewable Resources and Enabling
Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy
Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
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5
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Sathe D, Yoon S, Wang Z, Chen H, Wang J. Deconstruction of Polymers through Olefin Metathesis. Chem Rev 2024; 124:7007-7044. [PMID: 38787934 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The consumption of synthetic polymers has ballooned; so has the amount of post-consumer waste generated. The current polymer economy, however, is largely linear with most of the post-consumer waste being either landfilled or incinerated. The lack of recycling, together with the sizable carbon footprint of the polymer industry, has led to major negative environmental impacts. Over the past few years, chemical recycling technologies have gained significant traction as a possible technological route to tackle these challenges. In this regard, olefin metathesis, with its versatility and ease of operation, has emerged as an attractive tool. Here, we discuss the developments in olefin-metathesis-based chemical recycling technologies, including the development of new materials and the application of olefin metathesis to the recycling of commercial materials. We delve into structure-reactivity relationships in the context of polymerization-depolymerization behavior, how experimental conditions influence deconstruction outcomes, and the reaction pathways underlying these approaches. We also look at the current hurdles in adopting these technologies and relevant future directions for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devavrat Sathe
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
| | - Seiyoung Yoon
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
| | - Zeyu Wang
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
| | - Hanlin Chen
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
| | - Junpeng Wang
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
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6
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Weng C, Ding Z, Qiu W, Wang B, Tang X. Achieving Exceptional Thermal and Hydrolytic Resistance in Chemically Circular Polyesters via In-Chain 1,3-Cyclobutane Rings. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202401682. [PMID: 38587230 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202401682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Polyesters, a highly promising class of circular polymers for achieving a closed-loop sustainable plastic economy, inherently exhibit material stability defects, especially in thermal and hydrolytic instability. Here, we introduce a class of polyesters, P(4R-BL) (R=Ph, Bu), featuring conformationally rigid 1,3-cyclobutane rings in the backbone. These polyesters not only exhibit superior thermostability (Td,5%=376-380 °C) but also demonstrate exceptional hydrolytic resistance with good integrity even after 1 year in basic and acidic aqueous solutions, distinguishing themselves from typical counterparts. Tailoring the flexibility of the side group R enables the controlled thermal and mechanical performance of P(4Ph-BL) and P(4Bu-BL) to rival durable syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE), respectively. Significantly, despite their high stability, both polyesters can be effectively depolymerized into pristine monomers, establishing a circular life cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqun Weng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Zhiqiang Ding
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite & Functional Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Weijie Qiu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite & Functional Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Xiaoyan Tang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
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7
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Meng XB, Zhou T, Yang C, Cheng XY, Wu XT, Shi C, Du FS, Li ZC. Thermally Stable and Chemically Recyclable Poly(ketal-ester)s Regulated by Floor Temperature. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:15428-15437. [PMID: 38795044 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c03523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
Chemical recycling to monomers (CRM) offers a promising closed-loop approach to transition from current linear plastic economy toward a more sustainable circular paradigm. Typically, this approach has focused on modulating the ceiling temperature (Tc) of monomers. Despite considerable advancements, polymers with low Tc often face challenges such as inadequate thermal stability, exemplified by poly(γ-butyrolactone) (PGBL) with a decomposition temperature of ∼200 °C. In contrast, floor temperature (Tf)-regulated polymers, particularly those synthesized via the ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of macrolactones, inherently exhibit enhanced thermodynamic stability as the temperature increases. However, the development of those Tf regulated chemically recyclable polymers remains relatively underexplored. In this context, by judicious design and efficient synthesis of a biobased macrocyclic diester monomer (HOD), we developed a type of Tf -regulated closed-loop chemically recyclable poly(ketal-ester) (PHOD). First, the entropy-driven ROP of HOD generated high-molar mass PHOD with exceptional thermal stability with a Td,5% reaching up to 353 °C. Notably, it maintains a high Td,5% of 345 °C even without removing the polymerization catalyst. This contrasts markedly with PGBL, which spontaneously depolymerizes back to the monomer above its Tc in the presence of catalyst. Second, PHOD displays outstanding closed-loop chemical recyclability at room temperature within just 1 min with tBuOK. Finally, copolymerization of pentadecanolide (PDL) with HOD generated high-performance copolymers (PHOD-co-PPDL) with tunable mechanical properties and chemical recyclability of both components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Bin Meng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Tong Zhou
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Chun Yang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xiang-Yue Cheng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xiao-Tong Wu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Changxia Shi
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Fu-Sheng Du
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Zi-Chen Li
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
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8
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Wu XT, Yang C, Xi JS, Shi C, Du FS, Li ZC. Enabling Closed-Loop Circularity of "Non-Polymerizable" α, β-Conjugated Lactone Towards High-Performance Polyester with the Assistance of Cyclopentadiene. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202404179. [PMID: 38488293 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202404179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Chemical recycling of polymers to monomers presents a promising solution to the escalating crisis associated with plastic waste. Despite considerable progress made in this field, the primary efforts have been focused on redesigning new monomers to produce readily recyclable polymers. In contrast, limited research into the potential of seemingly "non-polymerizable" monomers has been conducted. Herein, we propose a paradigm that leverages a "chaperone"-assisted strategy to establish closed-loop circularity for a "non-polymerizable" α, β-conjugated lactone, 5,6-dihydro-2H-pyran-2-one (DPO). The resulting PDPO, a structural analogue of poly(δ-valerolactone) (PVL), exhibits enhanced thermal properties with a melting point (Tm) of 114 °C and a decomposition temperature (Td,5%) of 305 °C. Notably, owing to the structural similarity between DPO and δ-VL, the copolymerization generates semi-crystalline P(DPO-co-VL)s irrespective of the DPO incorporation ratio. Intriguingly, the inherent C=C bonds in P(DPO-co-VL)s enable their convenient post-functionalization via Michael-addition reaction. Lastly, PDPO was demonstrated to be chemically recyclable via ring-closing metathesis (RCM), representing a significant step towards the pursuit of enabling the closed-loop circularity of "non-polymerizable" lactones without altering the ultimate polymer structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Tong Wu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Chun Yang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jian-Shu Xi
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Changxia Shi
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Fu-Sheng Du
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Zi-Chen Li
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
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9
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Shi C, Quinn EC, Diment WT, Chen EYX. Recyclable and (Bio)degradable Polyesters in a Circular Plastics Economy. Chem Rev 2024; 124:4393-4478. [PMID: 38518259 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Polyesters carrying polar main-chain ester linkages exhibit distinct material properties for diverse applications and thus play an important role in today's plastics economy. It is anticipated that they will play an even greater role in tomorrow's circular plastics economy that focuses on sustainability, thanks to the abundant availability of their biosourced building blocks and the presence of the main-chain ester bonds that can be chemically or biologically cleaved on demand by multiple methods and thus bring about more desired end-of-life plastic waste management options. Because of this potential and promise, there have been intense research activities directed at addressing recycling, upcycling or biodegradation of existing legacy polyesters, designing their biorenewable alternatives, and redesigning future polyesters with intrinsic chemical recyclability and tailored performance that can rival today's commodity plastics that are either petroleum based and/or hard to recycle. This review captures these exciting recent developments and outlines future challenges and opportunities. Case studies on the legacy polyesters, poly(lactic acid), poly(3-hydroxyalkanoate)s, poly(ethylene terephthalate), poly(butylene succinate), and poly(butylene-adipate terephthalate), are presented, and emerging chemically recyclable polyesters are comprehensively reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changxia Shi
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Ethan C Quinn
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Wilfred T Diment
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, United States
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10
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Liu H, Hu R, Hu Z, Ji X. Construction of Supramolecular Polymers and Covalent Polymers via the Same Monomers. Chemistry 2024:e202400394. [PMID: 38584129 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202400394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Nature owns the ability to construct structurally different polymers from the same monomers. While polymers can be classified as covalent polymers (CPs) and supramolecular polymers (SPs), it is still difficult to synthesize CPs and SPs using same monomers like nature do. Herein, M1 with two diazo salts on both the ends was designed. Additionally, hydroquinone was chosen to be M2 for the existence of two hydroxyl groups. When mixing at room temperature, M1 and M2 self-assembled to SPs via N…H hydrogen bonds. In another way, upon the exposure to ultraviolet irradiation when blending M1 with M2, CPs were fabricated in the presence of covalent bonds. The excellent thermal stability of CPs was determined by TGA and DSC, while the great corrosion resistance of covalent polymers was detected by acid or alkali immersion. In this way, constructing two kinds of polymers using the same monomers was successfully achieved. This shows tremendous potential in fields of polymer science, supramolecular chemistry, which would boom the development of polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Materials Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P.R. China
| | - Rui Hu
- Key Laboratory of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Materials Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P.R. China
| | - Ziqing Hu
- Key Laboratory of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Materials Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofan Ji
- Key Laboratory of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Materials Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P.R. China
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11
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Shi C, Rorrer NA, Shaw AL, Clarke RW, Buss BL, Beckham GT, Broadbelt LJ, Chen EYX. Topology-Accelerated and Selective Cascade Depolymerization of Architecturally Complex Polyesters. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:9261-9271. [PMID: 38517949 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Despite considerable recent advances already made in developing chemically circular polymers (CPs), the current framework predominantly focuses on CPs with linear-chain structures of different monomer types. As polymer properties are determined by not only composition but also topology, manipulating the topology of the single-monomer-based CP systems from linear-chain structures to architecturally complex polymers could potentially modulate the resulting polymer properties without changing the chemical composition, thereby advancing the concept of monomaterial product design. To that end, here, we introduce a chemically circular hyperbranched polyester (HBPE), synthesized by a mixed chain-growth and step-growth polymerization of a rationally designed bicyclic lactone with a pendent hydroxyl group (BiLOH). This HBPE exhibits full chemical recyclability despite its architectural complexity, showing quantitative selectivity for regeneration of BiLOH, via a unique cascade depolymerization mechanism. Moreover, distinct differences in materials properties and performance arising from topological variations between HBPE, hb-PBiLOH, and its linear analogue, l-PBiLOH, have been revealed where generally the branched structure led to more favorable interchain interactions, and topology-amplified optical activity has also been observed for chiral (1S, 4S, 5S)-hb-PBiLOH. More intriguingly, depolymerization of l-PBiLOH proceeds through an unexpected, initial topological transformation to the HBPE polymer, followed by the faster cascade depolymerization pathway adopted by hb-PBiLOH. Overall, these results demonstrate that CP design can go beyond typical linear polymers, and rationally redesigned, architecturally complex polymers for their unique properties may synergistically impart advantages in topology-augmented depolymerization acceleration and selectivity for exclusive monomer regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changxia Shi
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-1872, United States
| | - Nicholas A Rorrer
- Renewable Resources and Enabling Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
- BOTTLE Consortium, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Alexander L Shaw
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Ryan W Clarke
- Renewable Resources and Enabling Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
- BOTTLE Consortium, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Bonnie L Buss
- Renewable Resources and Enabling Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
- BOTTLE Consortium, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Gregg T Beckham
- Renewable Resources and Enabling Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
- BOTTLE Consortium, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Linda J Broadbelt
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-1872, United States
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12
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Clark R, Shaver MP. Depolymerization within a Circular Plastics System. Chem Rev 2024; 124:2617-2650. [PMID: 38386877 PMCID: PMC10941197 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The societal importance of plastics contrasts with the carelessness with which they are disposed. Their superlative properties lead to economic and environmental efficiency, but the linearity of plastics puts the climate, human health, and global ecosystems at risk. Recycling is fundamental to transitioning this linear model into a more sustainable, circular economy. Among recycling technologies, chemical depolymerization offers a route to virgin quality recycled plastics, especially when valorizing complex waste streams poorly served by mechanical methods. However, chemical depolymerization exists in a complex and interlinked system of end-of-life fates, with the complementarity of each approach key to environmental, economic, and societal sustainability. This review explores the recent progress made into the depolymerization of five commercial polymers: poly(ethylene terephthalate), polycarbonates, polyamides, aliphatic polyesters, and polyurethanes. Attention is paid not only to the catalytic technologies used to enhance depolymerization efficiencies but also to the interrelationship with other recycling technologies and to the systemic constraints imposed by a global economy. Novel polymers, designed for chemical depolymerization, are also concisely reviewed in terms of their underlying chemistry and potential for integration with current plastic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robbie
A. Clark
- Department
of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
- Sustainable
Materials Innovation Hub, Henry Royce Institute, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
| | - Michael P. Shaver
- Department
of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
- Sustainable
Materials Innovation Hub, Henry Royce Institute, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United
Kingdom
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13
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Ibrahim T, Ritacco A, Nalley D, Emon OF, Liang Y, Sun H. Chemical recycling of polyolefins via ring-closing metathesis depolymerization. Chem Commun (Camb) 2024; 60:1361-1371. [PMID: 38213307 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc05612k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
The current insufficient recycling of commodity polymer waste has resulted in pressing environmental and human health issues in our modern society. In the quest for next-generation polymer materials, chemists have recently shifted their attention to the design of chemically recyclable polymers that can undergo depolymerization to regenerate monomers under mild conditions. During the past decade, ring-closing metathesis reactions have been demonstrated to be a robust approach for the depolymerization of polyolefins, producing low-strain cyclic alkene products which can be repolymerized back to new batches of polymers. In this review, we aim to highlight the recent advances in chemical recycling of polyolefins enabled by ring-closing metathesis depolymerization (RCMD). A library of depolymerizable polyolefins will be covered based on the ring size of their monomers or depolymerization products, including five-membered, six-membered, eight-membered, and macrocyclic rings. Moreover, current limitations, potential applications, and future opportunities of the RCMD approach will be discussed. It is clear from recent research in this field that RCMD represents a powerful strategy towards closed-loop chemical recycling of novel polyolefin materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek Ibrahim
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, Tagliatela College of Engineering, University of New Haven, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA.
| | - Angelo Ritacco
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, Tagliatela College of Engineering, University of New Haven, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA.
| | - Daniel Nalley
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, Tagliatela College of Engineering, University of New Haven, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA.
| | - Omar Faruk Emon
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Tagliatela College of Engineering, University of New Haven, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA
| | - Yifei Liang
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, USA
| | - Hao Sun
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, Tagliatela College of Engineering, University of New Haven, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA.
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14
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Jiang H, Li Z, Dai Y, Ling Y, Mei S, Wang H, Mou Z. Synthesis of Poly(δ-caprolactone) via Bis(phenolate) Rare-Earth Metal Complexes Mediated Ring-Opening Polymerization and Its Chemical Recycling. Inorg Chem 2024; 63:441-450. [PMID: 38149999 DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.3c03298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
New amine-amino-bis(phenolate) ligands (H2LtBu and H2LCl) with a cyclic tertiary amine (pyrrolidine) as a side arm and tBu or Cl group on the phenolate ring have been prepared. The alkane elimination reaction between these free ligands and rare-earth tris(alkyl)s Ln(CH2SiMe3)3(THF)2 afforded the corresponding silylalkyl complexes LtBuLnCH2SiMe3(THF) (Ln = Y (1), Lu (2)) and LClYCH2SiMe3(THF) (3), where the solid-state structure of complex 1 was unambiguously confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. These rare-earth metal complexes have been utilized as catalysts for the ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of biobased δ-caprolactone (δCL), either in the absence or presence of alcohols, to give poly(δ-caprolactone) (PδCL) with controlled molecular weight and narrow distribution (Đ < 1.2). The polymerization kinetics of δCL in toluene with yttrium complexes 1 and 3 were investigated. Oligomers prepared with complex 3 alone and the 3/PhCHMeOH binary catalyst system were well characterized with 1H NMR spectroscopy and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectroscopy (MALDI-TOF MS). Moreover, chemical recycling of the resultant PδCL was achieved with high yield in a solution at ambient temperature (>92%) or in bulk at 130 °C (>82%) by using commercial KOtBu as a promotor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Molecular Analysis of Zhejiang Province, School of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Zhiyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Molecular Analysis of Zhejiang Province, School of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Yanan Dai
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Molecular Analysis of Zhejiang Province, School of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Yidong Ling
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Molecular Analysis of Zhejiang Province, School of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Shiqing Mei
- School of Biology and Chemical Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huifei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Molecular Analysis of Zhejiang Province, School of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
- Pingshan Translational Medicine Center, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518118 China
| | - Zehuai Mou
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Molecular Analysis of Zhejiang Province, School of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
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15
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Pathan JR, Bhandary S, Sureshan KM. Two Structurally Different Polymers from a Single Monomer. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:22633-22638. [PMID: 37788217 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c07767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
We designed and synthesized a malonamide-derived monomer, containing azide and alkyne units, for topochemical polymerization to yield nylon (n,3). This monomer on crystallization gave two concomitant polymorphs M1 and M2. Both the polymorphs show crystal packings that are suitable for topochemical azide-alkyne cycloaddition polymerization. On heating, polymorph M1 reacts regiospecifically to give 1,4-disubstituted-1,2,3-triazolyl-linked polymer, whereas polymorph M2 yields 1,5-disubstituted-1,2,3-triazolyl-linked polymer regiospecifically. In the case of polymorph M1, polymerization proceeds perpendicular to the hydrogen bonding direction, whereas in M2, the reaction occurs along the hydrogen bonding direction. This results in the two structurally different polymers having distinct topologies. These single-crystal-to-single-crystal polymerizations allowed us to study their structure at atomic resolution by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. This is the first report on the topochemical synthesis of two structurally isomeric polymers from a single monomer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javed R Pathan
- School of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram, Vithura, Thiruvananthapuram 695551, India
| | - Subhrajyoti Bhandary
- School of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram, Vithura, Thiruvananthapuram 695551, India
| | - Kana M Sureshan
- School of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram, Vithura, Thiruvananthapuram 695551, India
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16
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Deng Z, Gillies ER. Emerging Trends in the Chemistry of End-to-End Depolymerization. JACS AU 2023; 3:2436-2450. [PMID: 37772181 PMCID: PMC10523501 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.3c00345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Over the past couple of decades, polymers that depolymerize end-to-end upon cleavage of their backbone or activation of a terminal functional group, sometimes referred to as "self-immolative" polymers, have been attracting increasing attention. They are of growing interest in the context of enhancing polymer degradability but also in polymer recycling as they allow monomers to be regenerated in a controlled manner under mild conditions. Furthermore, they are highly promising for applications as smart materials due to their ability to provide an amplified response to a specific signal, as a single sensing event is translated into the generation of many small molecules through a cascade of reactions. From a chemistry perspective, end-to-end depolymerization relies on the principles of self-immolative linkers and polymer ceiling temperature (Tc). In this article, we will introduce the key chemical concepts and foundations of the field and then provide our perspective on recent exciting developments. For example, over the past few years, new depolymerizable backbones, including polyacetals, polydisulfides, polyesters, polythioesters, and polyalkenamers, have been developed, while modern approaches to depolymerize conventional backbones such as polymethacrylates have also been introduced. Progress has also been made on the topological evolution of depolymerizable systems, including the introduction of fully depolymerizable block copolymers, hyperbranched polymers, and polymer networks. Furthermore, precision sequence-defined oligomers have been synthesized and studied for data storage and encryption. Finally, our perspectives on future opportunities and challenges in the field will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyu Deng
- Department
of Chemistry, The University of Western
Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London, Ontario N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Elizabeth R. Gillies
- Department
of Chemistry, The University of Western
Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London, Ontario N6A 5B7, Canada
- Department
of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, The University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St., London, Ontario N6A 5B9, Canada
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17
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McGuire T, Buchard A, Williams C. Chemical Recycling of Commercial Poly(l-lactic acid) to l-Lactide Using a High-Performance Sn(II)/Alcohol Catalyst System. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:19840-19848. [PMID: 37654014 PMCID: PMC10510327 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c05863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) is a leading commercial polymer produced from biomass, showing useful properties for plastics and fiber applications; after use, it is compostable. One area for improvement is postconsumer waste PLLA chemical recycling to monomer (CRM), i.e., the formation of l-lactide (l-LA) from waste plastic. This process is currently feasible at high reaction temperatures and shows low catalytic activity accompanied, in some cases, by side reactions, including epimerization. Here, a commercial Sn(II) catalyst, applied with nonvolatile commercial alcohol, enables highly efficient CRM of PLLA to yield l-LA in excellent yield and purity (92% yield, >99% l-LA from theoretical max.). The depolymerization is performed using neat polymer films at low temperatures (160 °C) under a nitrogen flow or vacuum. The chemical recycling operates with outstanding activity, achieving turnover frequencies which are up to 3000× higher than previously excellent catalysts and applied at loadings up to 6000× lower than previously leading catalysts. The catalyst system achieves a TOF = 3000 h-1 at 0.01 mol % or 1:10,000 catalyst:PLLA loading. The depolymerization of waste PLLA plastic packaging (coffee cup lids) produces pure l-LA in excellent yield and selectivity. The new catalyst system (Sn + alcohol) can itself be recycled four times in different PLLA "batch degradations" and maintains its high catalytic productivity, activity, and selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas
M. McGuire
- Department
of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, U.K.
| | - Antoine Buchard
- Department
of Chemistry, Institute for Sustainability, University of Bath, Claverton
Down, Bath BA2 7AY, U.K.
| | - Charlotte Williams
- Department
of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, 12 Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, U.K.
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18
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Tu YM, Gong FL, Wu YC, Cai Z, Zhu JB. Insights into substitution strategy towards thermodynamic and property regulation of chemically recyclable polymers. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3198. [PMID: 37268636 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38916-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of chemically recyclable polymers serves as an attractive approach to address the global plastic pollution crisis. Monomer design principle is the key to achieving chemical recycling to monomer. Herein, we provide a systematic investigation to evaluate a range of substitution effects and structure-property relationships in the ɛ-caprolactone (CL) system. Thermodynamic and recyclability studies reveal that the substituent size and position could regulate their ceiling temperatures (Tc). Impressively, M4 equipped with a tert-butyl group displays a Tc of 241 °C. A series of spirocyclic acetal-functionalized CLs prepared by a facile two-step reaction undergo efficient ring-opening polymerization and subsequent depolymerization. The resulting polymers demonstrate various thermal properties and a transformation of the mechanical performance from brittleness to ductility. Notably, the toughness and ductility of P(M13) is comparable to the commodity plastic isotactic polypropylene. This comprehensive study is aimed to provide a guideline to the future monomer design towards chemically recyclable polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Min Tu
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Rd, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Fu-Long Gong
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Rd, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Yan-Chen Wu
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Rd, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China
| | - Zhongzheng Cai
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Rd, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China.
| | - Jian-Bo Zhu
- National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Rd, Chengdu, 610064, P. R. China.
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19
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Shi C, Zhang Z, Scoti M, Yan XY, Chen EYX. Endowing Polythioester Vitrimer with Intrinsic Crystallinity and Chemical Recyclability. CHEMSUSCHEM 2023; 16:e202300008. [PMID: 36638158 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202300008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Technologically important thermosets face a long-standing end-of-life (EoL) problem of non-reprocessability, a more sustainable solution of which has resolved to nascent vitrimers that can merge the robust material properties of thermosets and the reprocessability of thermoplastics. However, the lifecycle of vitrimers is still finite, as they often suffer from significant deterioration of mechanical performance following multiple reprocessing cycles, analogous to mechanical recycling, and they often show undesired creep under working conditions. To address these two key limitations, we have developed a cross-linked semi-crystalline polythioester with both dynamic covalent bonds and intrinsic crystallinity and chemical recyclability, affording a vitrimeric system that exhibits not only reprocessability and crystallinity-restricted creep but also complete chemical recyclability to initial monomer by catalyzed depolymerization in solution or bulk. Therefore, reported herein is an "infinite" vitrimer system that is empowered with a facile closed-loop EoL option once serial reprocessing deteriorates performance and the material can no longer meet the application requirements. Specifically, the polythioester vitrimer was constructed by copolymerization of a bicyclic thioester with a bis-dithiolane, producing dynamically cross-linked polythioesters with excellent property tunability, from amorphous to semi-crystalline states and melting transition temperatures from 91 to 178 °C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changxia Shi
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80523-1872, United States
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80523-1872, United States
| | - Miriam Scoti
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80523-1872, United States
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Complesso Monte S. Angelo, Via Cintia, 80126, Napoli, Italy
| | - Xiao-Yun Yan
- Department of Polymer Science, School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio, 44325-3909, United States
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80523-1872, United States
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20
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Xia Y, Yuan P, Zhang Y, Sun Y, Hong M. Converting Non-strained γ-Valerolactone and Derivatives into Sustainable Polythioesters via Isomerization-driven Cationic Ring-Opening Polymerization of Thionolactone Intermediate. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202217812. [PMID: 36757807 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202217812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
This contribution reports the efficient conversion of γ-valerolactone and its derivatives, abundant but unexplored renewable feedstocks, into sustainable and degradable polythioesters via the establishment of the first isomerization-driven ring-opening polymerizations (IROPs) of corresponding thionolactone intermediates. The key to this success relies on the development of a new simple and robust [Et3 O]+ [B(C6 F5 )4 ]- cationic initiator which possesses high activity, exclusive selectivity, living nature, and broad scope of thionolactones. A complete inversion of configuration during IROP of enantiopure γ-thionovalerolactone is also disclosed, affording isotactic semicrystalline polythioesters (Tm =87.0 °C) with mechanical property compared well to the representative commodity polyolefins. The formation of a highly crystalline supramolecular stereocomplex with enhanced thermal property (Tm =117.6 °C) has also been revealed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Organometallic Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Pengjun Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Organometallic Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yanping Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organometallic Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yangyang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Organometallic Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Miao Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Organometallic Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China.,School of Chemistry and Material Sciences, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Sub-lane Xiangshan, Hangzhou, 310024, China
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21
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Xia Y, Yue X, Sun Y, Zhang C, Zhang X. Chemically Recyclable Polyethylene-like Sulfur-Containing Plastics from Sustainable Feedstocks. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202219251. [PMID: 36737409 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202219251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The green revolution in plastics should be accelerated due to growing sustainability concerns. Here, we develop a series of chemically recyclable polymers from the first reported cascade polymerization of H2 O, COS, and diacrylates. In addition to abundant feedstocks, the method is efficient and air-tolerant, uses common organic bases as catalysts, and yields polymers with high molecular weights under mild conditions. Such polymers, structurally like polyethylene with low-density in-chain polar groups, manifest impressive toughness and ductility comparable to high-density polyethylene. The in-chain ester group acts as a breaking point, enabling these polymers to undergo chemical recycling through two loops. The structures and properties of these polymers also have an immeasurably expanded range owing to the versatility of our method. The readily available raw materials, facile synthesis, and high performance make these polymers promising prospects as sustainable materials in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanni Xia
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, International Research Center for X Polymers, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Xinchen Yue
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, International Research Center for X Polymers, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Yue Sun
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, International Research Center for X Polymers, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Chengjian Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, International Research Center for X Polymers, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Xinghong Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, International Research Center for X Polymers, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.,Center of Chemistry for Frontier Technologies, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.,Shanxi-Zheda Institute of Advanced Materials and Chemical Engineering, Hangzhou, 310027, China
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22
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Wang X, Huo Z, Xie X, Shanaiah N, Tong R. Recent Advances in Sequence-Controlled Ring-Opening Copolymerizations of Monomer Mixtures. Chem Asian J 2023; 18:e202201147. [PMID: 36571563 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202201147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Transforming renewable resources into functional and degradable polymers is driven by the ever-increasing demand to replace unsustainable polyolefins. However, the utility of many degradable homopolymers remains limited due to their inferior properties compared to commodity polyolefins. Therefore, the synthesis of sequence-defined copolymers from one-pot monomer mixtures is not only conceptually appealing in chemistry, but also economically attractive by maximizing materials usage and improving polymers' performances. Among many polymerization strategies, ring-opening (co)polymerization of cyclic monomers enables efficient access to degradable polymers with high control on molecular weights and molecular weight distributions. Herein, we highlight recent advances in achieving one-pot, sequence-controlled polymerizations of cyclic monomer mixtures using a single catalytic system that combines multiple catalytic cycles. The scopes of cyclic monomers, catalysts, and polymerization mechanisms are presented for this type of sequence-controlled ring-opening copolymerization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Wang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 635 Prices Fork Road, 24061, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Ziyu Huo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 635 Prices Fork Road, 24061, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Xie
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 635 Prices Fork Road, 24061, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Narasimhamurthy Shanaiah
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1040 Drillfield Drive, 24061, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Rong Tong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 635 Prices Fork Road, 24061, Blacksburg, VA, USA
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23
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Zhou T, Meng XB, Du FS, Li ZC. Fully Bio-based Poly(ketal-ester)s by Ring-opening Polymerization of a Bicylcic Lactone from Glycerol and Levulinic Acid. Chem Asian J 2023; 18:e202201238. [PMID: 36756897 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202201238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
A fully renewable bio-based bicyclic lactone containing a five-membered cyclic ketal moiety, 7-methyl-3,8,10-trioxabicyclo[5.2.1]decan-4-one (TOD), was synthesized through a two-step acid-catalyzed process from glycerol and levulinic acid. The ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of TOD at 30°C with benzyl alcohol (BnOH) as the initiator and 1,5,7-triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec-5-ene (TBD) as the catalyst can afford high molar mass PTOD with a cis-2.4-disubstitued 2-methyl 1,3-dioxolane moiety in its repeating unit. PTOD is an amorphous polymer with a glass transition temperature (Tg ) of 13°C. It can be hydrolyzed into structurally defined small molecules under acidic or basic conditions by the selective cleavage of either the cyclic ketal or the ester linkage respectively. The TBD-catalyzed copolymerization of L-lactide (L-LA) and TOD at -20°C was investigated. It was confirmed that L-LA polymerized quickly with racemization to form PLA, followed by a slow incorporation of TOD into the formed PLA chains via transesterification. By varying the feed ratios of L-LA to TOD, a series of random copolymers (PLA-co-PTOD) with different TOD incorporation ratios and tunable Tg s were obtained. Under acidic conditions, PLA-co-PTOD degrades much faster than PLA via the selective cleavage of the cyclic ketal linkages. This work provides insights for the development of more sustainable and acid-accelerated degradable alternatives to aliphatic polyesters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Zhou
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Polym. Chem. & Physics of Ministry of Education, Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
| | - Xian-Bin Meng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Polym. Chem. & Physics of Ministry of Education, Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
| | - Fu-Sheng Du
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Polym. Chem. & Physics of Ministry of Education, Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
| | - Zi-Chen Li
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Key Laboratory of Polym. Chem. & Physics of Ministry of Education, Department of Polymer Science & Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
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24
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Plummer CM, Li L, Chen Y. Ring-Opening Polymerization for the Goal of Chemically Recyclable Polymers. Macromolecules 2023; 56:731-750. [PMID: 36818576 PMCID: PMC9933900 DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c01694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
A crucial modern dilemma relates to the ecological crisis created by excess plastic waste production. An emerging technology for reducing plastic waste is the production of "chemically recyclable" polymers. These polymers can be efficiently synthesized through ring-opening polymerization (ROP/ROMP) and later recycled to pristine monomer by ring-closing depolymerization, in an efficient circular-type system. This Perspective aims to explore the chemistry involved in the preparation of these monomer/polymer systems, while also providing an overview of the challenges involved, including future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M. Plummer
- International
Centre for Research on Innovative Biobased Materials (ICRI-BioM), Lodz University of Technology, Zeromskiego 116, 90-924 Lodz, Poland,
| | - Le Li
- Key
Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry
of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P. R. China,School
of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P. R. China
| | - Yongming Chen
- Key
Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry
of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P. R. China,School
of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun
Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P. R. China
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25
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Zhang Z, Lei D, Zhang C, Wang Z, Jin Y, Zhang W, Liu X, Sun J. Strong and Tough Supramolecular Covalent Adaptable Networks with Room-Temperature Closed-Loop Recyclability. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2208619. [PMID: 36367361 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202208619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Development of closed-loop chemically recyclable plastics (CCRPs) that can be widely used in daily life can be a fundamental solution to the global plastic waste crisis. Hence, it is of great significance to develop easy-to-recycle CCRPs that possess superior or comparable material properties to the commodity plastics. Here, a novel dual crosslinked CCRP, namely, supramolecular covalent adaptable networks (supra-CANs), is reported, which not only displays mechanical properties higher than the strong and tough commodity polycarbonate, but also exhibits excellent solvent resistance as thermosets. The supra-CANs are constructed by introducing reversible noncovalent crosslinks into the dynamic covalent polymer networks, resulting in highly stiff and strong thermosets that also exhibit thermoplastic-like ductile and tough behaviors as well as reprocessability and rehealability. In great contrast, the analogs that do not have noncovalent crosslinks (CANs) show elastomeric properties with significantly decreased mechanical strength. Importantly, the developed supra-CANs and CANs can be converted back into the initial monomers in high yields and purity at room temperature, even with additives, which enables the sustainable polymer-monomer-polymer circulation. This work provides new design principles for high-performance chemically recyclable polymers as sustainable substitutes for the conventional plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoqiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, P. R. China
| | - Dong Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, P. R. China
| | - Chenxuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, P. R. China
| | - Zhenyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, P. R. China
| | - Yinghua Jin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Xiaokong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, P. R. China
| | - Junqi Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, P. R. China
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26
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Liu Y, Xu J, Zhang Y, Shen Y, Li Z. Rapid Ring-Opening Polymerization of γ-Butyrolactone toward High-Molecular-Weight Poly (γ-butyrolactone) by an Organophosphazene Base and Bisurea Binary Catalyst. Chem Asian J 2023; 18:e202201107. [PMID: 36519360 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202201107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The low temperature condition, long reaction time and associated high energy inputs involved in the polymerization process still hampered the scalable production of poly(γ-butyrolactone) (PγBL) via ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of low strained γBL due to its unfavorable thermodynamics. In this contribution, we presented the rapid ROP of γBL using a bisurea in combination with an organophosphazene base as the binary catalyst. Well-defined PγBL samples with various terminal groups were prepared by using different alcohol initiators. The bisurea as a co-catalyst exhibited much higher catalytic activity even compared to the most active monourea in previous report as supported by the kinetic experiments. A moderate monomer conversion of 61% was achieved within 10 mins, producing high-molecular-weight PγBL with Mn up to 37.5 kDa and good mechanical properties. The short polymerization time considerably reduced the energy cost for the ROP of γBL conducted at low temperature condition. This study may clear away obstacles for the scalable production and practical applications for PγBL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biobased Polymer Materials Shandong Provincial Education Department College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, P. R. China
| | - Jizhe Xu
- State Key Laboratory Base of Eco-Chemical Engineering College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, P. R. China
| | - Yiming Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biobased Polymer Materials Shandong Provincial Education Department College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, P. R. China
| | - Yong Shen
- State Key Laboratory Base of Eco-Chemical Engineering College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, P. R. China
| | - Zhibo Li
- Key Laboratory of Biobased Polymer Materials Shandong Provincial Education Department College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, P. R. China.,State Key Laboratory Base of Eco-Chemical Engineering College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, P. R. China
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27
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Li XL, Ma K, Xu F, Xu TQ. Advances in the Synthesis of Chemically Recyclable Polymers. Chem Asian J 2023; 18:e202201167. [PMID: 36623942 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202201167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The development of modern society is closely related to polymer materials. However, the accumulation of polymer materials and their evolution in the environment causes not only serious environmental problems, but also waste of resources. Although physical processing can be used to reuse polymers, the properties of the resulting polymers are significantly degraded. Chemically recyclable polymers, a type of polymer that degrades into monomers, can be an effective solution to the degradation of polymer properties caused by physical recycling of polymers. The ideal chemical recycling of polymers, i. e., quantitative conversion of the polymer to monomers at low energy consumption and repolymerization of the formed monomers into polymers with comparable properties to the original, is an attractive research goal. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the design of recyclable polymers, enabling the regulation of the "polymerization-depolymerization" equilibrium and closed-loop recycling under mild conditions. This review will focus on the following aspects of closed-loop recycling of poly(sulfur) esters, polycarbonates, polyacetals, polyolefins, and poly(disulfide) polymer, illustrate the challenges in this area, and provide an outlook on future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Lei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals Department of Chemistry School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, P. R. China
| | - Kai Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals Department of Chemistry School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, P. R. China
| | - Fei Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals Department of Chemistry School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, P. R. China
| | - Tie-Qi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals Department of Chemistry School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, P. R. China
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28
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Wang Y, Zhu Y, Lv W, Wang X, Tao Y. Tough while Recyclable Plastics Enabled by Monothiodilactone Monomers. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:1877-1885. [PMID: 36594572 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c11502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The current scale of plastics production and the attendant waste disposal issues represent an underexplored opportunity for chemically recyclable polymers. Typical recyclable polymers are subject to the trade-off between the monomer's polymerizability and the polymer's depolymerizability as well as insufficient performance for practical applications. Herein, we demonstrate that a single atom oxygen-by-sulfur substitution of relatively highly strained dilactone is an effective and robust strategy for converting the "non-recyclable" polyester into a chemically recyclable polymer by lowering the ring strain energy in the monomer (from 16.0 kcal mol-1 in dilactone to 9.1 kcal mol-1 in monothiodilactone). These monothio-modification monomers enable both high/selective polymerizability and recyclability, otherwise conflicting features in a typical monomer, as evidenced by regioselective ring-opening, minimal transthioesterifications, and quantitative recovery of the pristine monomer. Computational and experimental studies demonstrate that an n→π* interaction between the adjacent ester and thioester in the polymer backbone has been implicated in the high selectivity for propagation over transthioesterification. The resulting polymer demonstrates high performance with its mechanical properties being comparable to some commodity polyolefins. Thio-modification is a powerful strategy for enabling conversion of six-membered dilactones into chemically recyclable and tough thermoplastics that exhibit promise as next-generation sustainable polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanchao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Renmin Street 5625, Changchun 130022, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinuo Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Renmin Street 5625, Changchun 130022, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenxiu Lv
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Renmin Street 5625, Changchun 130022, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianhong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Renmin Street 5625, Changchun 130022, People's Republic of China
| | - Youhua Tao
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Renmin Street 5625, Changchun 130022, People's Republic of China
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29
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Chemically recyclable polyurethanes based on bio-renewable γ-butyrolactone: From thermoplastics to elastomers. Polym Degrad Stab 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2022.110116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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30
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Zhao JZ, Yue TJ, Ren BH, Liu Y, Ren WM, Lu XB. Recyclable Sulfur-Rich Polymers with Enhanced Thermal, Mechanical, and Optical Performance. Macromolecules 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c01628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Zhuo Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Tian-Jun Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Bai-Hao Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Ye Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Wei-Min Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, China
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31
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Yu Y, Gao B, Liu Y, Lu XB. Efficient and Selective Chemical Recycling of CO 2 -Based Alicyclic Polycarbonates via Catalytic Pyrolysis. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202204492. [PMID: 35770495 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202204492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Chemical recycling of polymers to their constituent monomers is the foremost challenge in building a sustainable circular plastics economy. Here, we report a strategy for highly efficient depolymerization of various CO2 -based alicyclic polycarbonates to epoxide monomers in solvent-free conditions by a simple CrIII -Salen complex mediated catalytic pyrolysis process. The chemical recycling of the widely studied poly(cyclohexene carbonate) exhibits excellent reactivity (TOF up to 3000 h-1 , 0.1 mol % catalyst loading) and high epoxide monomer selectivity (>99 %). Mechanistic investigation reveals that the process proceeds in a sequential fashion via a trans-carbonate intermediate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Bang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Ye Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
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32
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Li J, Liu F, Liu Y, Shen Y, Li Z. Functionalizable and Chemically Recyclable Thermoplastics from Chemoselective Ring-Opening Polymerization of Bio-renewable Bifunctional α-Methylene-δ-valerolactone. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202207105. [PMID: 35674460 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202207105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
It is a highly attractive strategy to develop chemically recyclable polymers to establish a circular plastic economy. Despite the recent advancements, chemically recyclable polymers still face challenges including high energy cost for polymer preparation or recycling, poor monomer recovery selectivity and efficiency as well as undesired material performance. In this contribution, we present the chemoselective controlled ring-opening polymerization of bio-renewable bifunctional α-methylene-δ-valerolactone (MVL) to produce exclusive functionalizable polyester using strong base/urea binary catalysts. The obtained polyester with high molar mass exhibits good tensile strength comparable to that of some commodity plastics. Remarkably, the obtained polyester can be depolymerized to recover pristine monomer with a 96 % yield by thermolysis, thus successfully establishing a closed-loop life cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiandong Li
- State Key Laboratory Base of Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China
| | - Fusheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory Base of Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China
| | - Yalei Liu
- State Key Laboratory Base of Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China
| | - Yong Shen
- State Key Laboratory Base of Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China
| | - Zhibo Li
- State Key Laboratory Base of Eco-Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China.,Key Laboratory of Biobased Polymer Materials, Shandong Provincial Education Department, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China
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33
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Yu Y, Gao B, Liu Y, Lu XB. Efficient and Selective Chemical Recycling of CO2‐based Alicyclic Polycarbonates via Catalytic Pyrolysis. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202204492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yu
- Dalian University of Technology State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals CHINA
| | - Bang Gao
- Dalian University of Technology State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals CHINA
| | - Ye Liu
- Dalian University of Technology State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals CHINA
| | - Xiao-Bing Lu
- State Key Laboratory of fine chemicals,Dalian University of Technology State Key Laboratory of fine chemicals, 2 Linggong road 116024 Dalian CHINA
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34
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Functionalizable and Chemically Recyclable Thermoplastics from Chemoselective Ring‐Opening Polymerization of Bio‐renewable Bifunctional α‐Methylene‐δ‐valerolactone. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202207105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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35
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Hu Z, Cao X, Zhang X, Wu B, Luo W, Huang H, Li L, Chen Y. Catalytically Controlled Ring-Opening Polymerization of 2-Oxo-15-crown-5 for Degradable and Recyclable PEG-Like Polyesters. ACS Macro Lett 2022; 11:792-798. [PMID: 35653639 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.2c00210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) has been extensively used in diverse applications. However, it is not biodegradable and shows abnormal immune responses. Herein, a fast, controlled, ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of 2-oxo-15-crown-5 (O-15C5) is reported to prepare well-defined PEG-like polyesters, poly(O-15C5). This approach relies on a coordination between the macrocyclic monomer and Na+ that increases the electrophilicity of the carbonyl group of O-15C5 and leads to a fast controlled ROP (dispersity, ĐM < 1.2). Both computational and mechanistic studies show that the selective Na+ binding to the monomer over poly(O-15C5) allows the ring-opening initiation and propagation to be more energetically favorable than side transesterifications. This is the key to control the challenging entropy-driven ROP of O-15C5. Moreover, with the aid of Na+ and organic base, poly(O-15C5) depolymerized readily into O-15C5 in 2 h. Also, it degraded in a buffer of pH 7.4 by hydrolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhitao Hu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275, China
- Key Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Xiaohui Cao
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Bin Wu
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Wenjun Luo
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Huahua Huang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275, China
- Key Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Le Li
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275, China
- Key Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Yongming Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275, China
- Key Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, No. 135, Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou 510275, China
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36
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Guo YT, Shi C, Du TY, Cheng XY, Du FS, Li ZC. Closed-Loop Recyclable Aliphatic Poly(ester-amide)s with Tunable Mechanical Properties. Macromolecules 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c00221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ting Guo
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Changxia Shi
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Tian-Yi Du
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xiang-Yue Cheng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Fu-Sheng Du
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Zi-Chen Li
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry & Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
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37
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Cywar RM, Rorrer NA, Mayes HB, Maurya AK, Tassone CJ, Beckham GT, Chen EYX. Redesigned Hybrid Nylons with Optical Clarity and Chemical Recyclability. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:5366-5376. [PMID: 35290039 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c12611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Aliphatic polyamides, or nylons, are typically highly crystalline and thermally robust polymers used in high-performance applications. Nylon 6, a high-ceiling-temperature (HCT) polyamide from ε-caprolactam, lacks expedient chemical recyclability, while low-ceiling temperature (LCT) nylon 4 from pyrrolidone exhibits complete chemical recyclability, but it is thermally unstable and not melt-processable. Here, we introduce a hybrid nylon, nylon 4/6, based on a bicyclic lactam composed of both HCT ε-caprolactam and LCT pyrrolidone motifs in a hybridized offspring structure. Hybrid nylon 4/6 overcomes trade-offs in (de)polymerizability and performance properties of the parent nylons, exhibiting both excellent polymerization and facile depolymerization characteristics. This stereoregular polyamide forms nanocrystalline domains, allowing optical clarity and high thermal stability, however, without displaying a melting transition before decomposition. Of a series of statistical copolymers comprising nylon 4/6 and nylon 4, a 50/50 copolymer achieves the greatest synergy in both reactivity and polymer properties of each homopolymer, offering an amorphous nylon with favorable properties, including optical clarity, a high glass transition temperature, melt processability, and full chemical recyclability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin M Cywar
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-1872, United States.,Renewable Resources and Enabling Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Nicholas A Rorrer
- Renewable Resources and Enabling Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Heather B Mayes
- Renewable Resources and Enabling Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Anjani K Maurya
- SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, Menlo Park, California 94025, United States
| | - Christopher J Tassone
- SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, Menlo Park, California 94025, United States
| | - Gregg T Beckham
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-1872, United States.,Renewable Resources and Enabling Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-1872, United States
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38
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Kazama A, Kohsaka Y. Diverse chemically recyclable polymers obtained by cationic vinyl and ring-opening polymerizations of the cyclic ketene acetal ester “dehydroaspirin”. Polym Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1039/d2py01181f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chemically recyclable polymers composed of carbon and/or ester backbones were prepared by vinyl and ring-opening polymerizations of a cyclic ketene acetal ester.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akane Kazama
- Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Kohsaka
- Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan
- Research Initiative for Supra-Materials (RISM), Shinshu University, Japan
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39
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Cai Z, Liu Y, Tao Y, Zhu JB. Recent Advances in Monomer Design for Recyclable Polymers. ACTA CHIMICA SINICA 2022. [DOI: 10.6023/a22050235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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