1
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Aarsen CV, Liguori A, Mattsson R, Sipponen MH, Hakkarainen M. Designed to Degrade: Tailoring Polyesters for Circularity. Chem Rev 2024; 124:8473-8515. [PMID: 38936815 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.4c00032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
A powerful toolbox is needed to turn the linear plastic economy into circular. Development of materials designed for mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, and/or biodegradation in targeted end-of-life environment are all necessary puzzle pieces in this process. Polyesters, with reversible ester bonds, are already forerunners in plastic circularity: poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is the most recycled plastic material suitable for mechanical and chemical recycling, while common aliphatic polyesters are biodegradable under favorable conditions, such as industrial compost. However, this circular design needs to be further tailored for different end-of-life options to enable chemical recycling under greener conditions and/or rapid enough biodegradation even under less favorable environmental conditions. Here, we discuss molecular design of the polyester chain targeting enhancement of circularity by incorporation of more easily hydrolyzable ester bonds, additional dynamic bonds, or degradation catalyzing functional groups as part of the polyester chain. The utilization of polyester circularity to design replacement materials for current volume plastics is also reviewed as well as embedment of green catalysts, such as enzymes in biodegradable polyester matrices to facilitate the degradation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine V Aarsen
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 58, 100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Liguori
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 58, 100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Chemistry "G. Ciamician", University of Bologna, Via Selmi 2, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Rebecca Mattsson
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 58, 100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mika H Sipponen
- Department of Materials and Environmental Chemistry, Stockholm University, Svante Arrhenius väg 16C, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Minna Hakkarainen
- Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 58, 100 44 Stockholm, Sweden
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2
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Qin L, Li X, Ren G, Yuan R, Wang X, Hu Z, Ye C, Zou Y, Ding P, Zhang H, Cai Q. Closed-Loop Polymer-to-Polymer Upcycling of Waste Poly (Ethylene Terephthalate) into Biodegradable and Programmable Materials. CHEMSUSCHEM 2024; 17:e202301781. [PMID: 38409634 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202301781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), extensively employed in bottles, film, and fiber manufacture, has generated persistent environmental contamination due to its non-degradable nature. The resolution of this issue requires the conversion of waste PET into valuable products, often achieved through depolymerization into monomers. However, the laborious purification procedures involved in the extraction of monomers pose challenges and constraints on the complete utilization of PET. Herein, a strategy is demonstrated for the polymer-to-polymer upcycling of waste PET into high-value biodegradable and programmable materials named PEXT. This process involves reversible transesterifications dependent on ester bonds, wherein commercially available X-monomers from aliphatic diacids and diols are introduced, utilizing existing industrial equipment for complete PET utilization. PEXT features a programmable molecular structure, delivering tailored mechanical, thermal, and biodegradation performance. Notably, PEXT exhibits superior mechanical performance, with a maximal elongation at break of 3419.2 % and a toughness of 270.79 MJ m-3. These characteristics make PEXT suitable for numerous applications, including shape-memory materials, transparent films, and fracture-resistant stretchable components. Significantly, PEXT allows closed-loop recycling within specific biodegradable analogs by reprograming PET or X-monomers. This strategy not only offers cost-effective advantages in large-scale upcycling of waste PET into advanced materials but also demonstrates its enormous prospect in environmental conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidong Qin
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Xiaoxu Li
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Geng Ren
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Rongyan Yuan
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Zexu Hu
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Chenwu Ye
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Yangyang Zou
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Peiqing Ding
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
| | - Hongjie Zhang
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Qiuquan Cai
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, China
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3
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Mu B, Yu X, Shao Y, Yang Y. High-quality acrylic fibers from waste textiles. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 931:172752. [PMID: 38677427 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this work is to develop a closed-loop recycling method specifically tailored for acrylic fibers. Recycling waste acrylic is essential, given the vast volumes of acrylic-containing textiles produced yearly and the strong capability of acrylics to generate toxic microplastics. However, none of the available closed-loop recycling, mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, and direct extrusion technologies work for acrylics. Acrylic fibers are always blended with other textile fibers, making fiber separation via mechanical recycling almost impossible. Polyacrylonitrile, an addition-polymerized thermoplastic material, cannot be depolymerized into its original monomer. Direct extrusion of waste acrylics faces issues of uncontrollable colors on fibers and pollution of spinning lines due to the influence of existing colorants. In our method, acrylic fibers were extracted from waste textiles using a novel approach involving maximized acrylic swelling and dissolution with dimethyl sulfoxide and butanediol. Cationic dyes were effectively removed through cost-effective recycling technology. This work demonstrates that cationic dyes seriously affect the acrylic dissolution, color consistency, and dyeability of regenerated fibers via direct wet extrusion. Such negative impacts of dyes have been eliminated by our cost-effective and closed-loop acrylic recycling technology, which enables the efficient separation of non-acrylic fibers and dyes from acrylic fibers. Our recycling system achieved zero discharges through recycling solvents, dyes, and acrylics. The regenerated acrylic fibers exhibited mechanical properties and dyeability comparable to virgin acrylic fibers. The material and energy costs to produce pure acrylic from waste textiles were only 40 % of those from fossils. This study successfully introduces a closed-loop recycling method for acrylic fibers from waste textiles, addressing key challenges in acrylic fiber recycling. Further research and implementation of this technology are recommended to advance its commercial viability and widespread adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingnan Mu
- Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States
| | - Xiaoqing Yu
- Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States
| | - Yuanyi Shao
- Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States
| | - Yiqi Yang
- Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States; Department of Biological Systems Engineering, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States; Nebraska Center for Materials and Nanoscience, 234, GNHS, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0802, United States.
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4
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Zhu G, von Coelln N, Hou Y, Vazquez-Martel C, Spiegel CA, Tegeder P, Blasco E. Digital Light 3D Printing of Double Thermoplastics with Customizable Mechanical Properties and Versatile Reprocessability. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2401561. [PMID: 38949414 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202401561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Digital light processing (DLP) is a 3D printing technology offering high resolution and speed. Printable materials are commonly based on multifunctional monomers, resulting in the formation of thermosets that usually cannot be reprocessed or recycled. Some efforts are made in DLP 3D printing of thermoplastic materials. However, these materials exhibit limited and poor mechanical properties. Here, a new strategy is presented for DLP 3D printing of thermoplastics based on a sequential construction of two linear polymers with contrasting (stiff and flexible) mechanical properties. The inks consist of two vinyl monomers, which lead to the stiff linear polymer, and α-lipoic acid, which forms the flexible linear polymer via thermal ring-opening polymerization in a second step. By varying the ratio of stiff and flexible linear polymers, the mechanical properties can be tuned with Young's modulus ranging from 1.1 GPa to 0.7 MPa, while the strain at break increased from 4% to 574%. Furthermore, these printed thermoplastics allow for a variety of reprocessability pathways including self-healing, solvent casting, reprinting, and closed-loop recycling of the flexible polymer, contributing to the development of a sustainable materials economy. Last, the potential of the new material in applications ranging from soft robotics to electronics is demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangda Zhu
- Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 225, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 270, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nadine von Coelln
- Physikalisch-Chemisches Institut, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 253, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Yi Hou
- Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 225, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 270, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Clara Vazquez-Martel
- Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 225, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 270, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph A Spiegel
- Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 225, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 270, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Petra Tegeder
- Physikalisch-Chemisches Institut, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 253, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Eva Blasco
- Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 225, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 270, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
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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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Zhang W, Killian L, Thevenon A. Electrochemical recycling of polymeric materials. Chem Sci 2024; 15:8606-8624. [PMID: 38873080 PMCID: PMC11168094 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc01754d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Polymeric materials play a pivotal role in our modern world, offering a diverse range of applications. However, they have been designed with end-properties in mind over recyclability, leading to a crisis in their waste management. The recent emergence of electrochemical recycling methodologies for polymeric materials provides new perspectives on closing their life cycle, and to a larger extent, the plastic loop by transforming plastic waste into monomers, building blocks, or new polymers. In this context, we summarize electrochemical strategies developed for the recovery of building blocks, the functionalization of polymer chains as well as paired electrolysis and discuss how they can make an impact on plastic recycling, especially compared to traditional thermochemical approaches. Additionally, we explore potential directions that could revolutionize research in electrochemical plastic recycling, addressing associated challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizhe Zhang
- Organic Chemistry and Catalysis, Institute for Sustainable and Circular Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University Universiteitsweg 99 Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Lars Killian
- Organic Chemistry and Catalysis, Institute for Sustainable and Circular Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University Universiteitsweg 99 Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Arnaud Thevenon
- Organic Chemistry and Catalysis, Institute for Sustainable and Circular Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University Universiteitsweg 99 Utrecht The Netherlands
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7
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Zhang M, Choi W, Kim M, Choi J, Zang X, Ren Y, Chen H, Tsukruk V, Peng J, Liu Y, Kim DH, Lin Z. Recent Advances in Environmentally Friendly Dual-crosslinking Polymer Networks. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202318035. [PMID: 38586975 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202318035] [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: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Environmentally friendly crosslinked polymer networks feature degradable covalent or non-covalent bonds, with many of them manifesting dynamic characteristics. These attributes enable convenient degradation, facile reprocessibility, and self-healing capabilities. However, the inherent instability of these crosslinking bonds often compromises the mechanical properties of polymer networks, limiting their practical applications. In this context, environmentally friendly dual-crosslinking polymer networks (denoted EF-DCPNs) have emerged as promising alternatives to address this challenge. These materials effectively balance the need for high mechanical properties with the ability to degrade, recycle, and/or self-heal. Despite their promising potential, investigations into EF-DCPNs remain in their nascent stages, and several gaps and limitations persist. This Review provides a comprehensive overview of the synthesis, properties, and applications of recent progress in EF-DCPNs. Firstly, synthetic routes to a rich variety of EF-DCPNs possessing two distinct types of dynamic bonds (i.e., imine, disulfide, ester, hydrogen bond, coordination bond, and other bonds) are introduced. Subsequently, complex structure- and dynamic nature-dependent mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of EF-DCPNs are discussed, followed by their exemplary applications in electronics and biotechnology. Finally, future research directions in this rapidly evolving field are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyue Zhang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
| | - Woosung Choi
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Minju Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52, Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinyoung Choi
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Xuerui Zang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
| | - Yujing Ren
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
| | - Han Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
| | - Vladimir Tsukruk
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Juan Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Yijiang Liu
- College of Chemistry, Key Lab of Environment-Friendly Chemistry and Application in Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, Hunan Province, 411105, China
| | - Dong Ha Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52, Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Zhiqun Lin
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52, Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
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8
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Castro J, Westworth X, Shrestha R, Yokoyama K, Guan Z. Efficient and Robust Dynamic Crosslinking for Compatibilizing Immiscible Mixed Plastics through In Situ Generated Singlet Nitrenes. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2406203. [PMID: 38848581 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202406203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Creating a sustainable economy for plastics demands the exploration of new strategies for efficient management of mixed plastic waste. The inherent incompatibility of different plastics poses a major challenge in plastic mechanical recycling, resulting in phase-separated materials with inferior mechanical properties. Here, this study presents a robust and efficient dynamic crosslinking chemistry that effectively compatibilizes mixed plastics. Composed of aromatic sulfonyl azides, the dynamic crosslinker shows high thermal stability and generates singlet nitrene species in situ during solvent-free melt-extrusion, effectively promoting C─H insertion across diverse plastics. This new method demonstrates successful compatibilization of binary polymer blends and model mixed plastics, enhancing mechanical performance and improving phase morphology. It holds promise for managing mixed plastic waste, supporting a more sustainable lifecycle for plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Castro
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Xavier Westworth
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Roman Shrestha
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Kosuke Yokoyama
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Zhibin Guan
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
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9
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Hao LT, Kim S, Lee M, Park SB, Koo JM, Jeon H, Park J, Oh DX. Next-generation all-organic composites: A sustainable successor to organic-inorganic hybrid materials. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 269:132129. [PMID: 38718994 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
This Review presents an overview of all-organic nanocomposites, a sustainable alternative to organic-inorganic hybrids. All-organic nanocomposites contain nanocellulose, nanochitin, and aramid nanofibers as highly rigid reinforcing fillers. They offer superior mechanical properties and lightweight characteristics suitable for diverse applications. The Review discusses various methods for preparing the organic nanofillers, including top-down and bottom-up approaches. It highlights in situ polymerization as the preferred method for incorporating these nanomaterials into polymer matrices to achieve homogeneous filler dispersion, a crucial factor for realizing desired performance. Furthermore, the Review explores several applications of all-organic nanocomposites in diverse fields including food packaging, performance-advantaged plastics, and electronic materials. Future research directions-developing sustainable production methods, expanding biomedical applications, and enhancing resistance against heat, chemicals, and radiation of all-organic nanocomposites to permit their use in extreme environments-are explored. This Review offers insights into the potential of all-organic nanocomposites to drive sustainable growth while meeting the demand for high-performance materials across various industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lam Tan Hao
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Semin Kim
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Minkyung Lee
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Bae Park
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Mo Koo
- Department of Organic Materials Engineering, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeonyeol Jeon
- Research Center for Bio-Based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, Republic of Korea; Advanced Materials & Chemical Engineering, Korea National University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jeyoung Park
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dongyeop X Oh
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering and Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea.
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10
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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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11
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Kruszynski J, Nowicka W, Rozanski A, Liu Y, Parisi D, Yang L, Pasha FA, Bouyahyi M, Jasinska-Walc L, Duchateau R. iPP/HDPE blends compatibilized by a polyester: An unconventional concept to valuable products. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eado1944. [PMID: 38781337 PMCID: PMC11114220 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ado1944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Polyolefins are the most widely used plastics accounting for a large fraction of the polymer waste stream. Although reusing polyolefins seems to be a logical choice, their recycling level remains disappointingly low. This is mainly due to the lack of large-scale availability of efficient and inexpensive compatibilizers for mixed polyolefin waste, typically consisting of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and isotactic polypropylene (iPP) that, despite their similar chemical hydrocarbon structure, are immiscible. Here, we describe an unconventional approach of using polypentadecalactone, a straightforward and simple-to-produce aliphatic polyester, as a compatibilizer for iPP/HDPE blends, especially the brittle iPP-rich ones. The unexpectedly effective compatibilizer transforms brittle iPP/HDPE blends into unexpectedly tough materials that even outperform the reference HDPE and iPP materials. This simple approach creates opportunities for upcycling polymer waste into valuable products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Kruszynski
- SABIC Technology & Innovation, STC Geleen, Urmonderbaan 22, Geleen, Netherlands
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Functional Materials, Chemical Faculty, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza Str. 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Weronika Nowicka
- SABIC Technology & Innovation, STC Geleen, Urmonderbaan 22, Geleen, Netherlands
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Functional Materials, Chemical Faculty, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza Str. 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Artur Rozanski
- Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Yingxin Liu
- SABIC Technology & Innovation, STC Geleen, Urmonderbaan 22, Geleen, Netherlands
| | - Daniele Parisi
- Chemical Product Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Lanti Yang
- SABIC Technology & Innovation, Plasticslaan 1, 4612 PX, Bergen op Zoom, Netherlands
| | - Farhan Ahmad Pasha
- SABIC Technology Center at KAUST, 25 Unity Blvd, Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Miloud Bouyahyi
- SABIC Technology & Innovation, STC Geleen, Urmonderbaan 22, Geleen, Netherlands
| | - Lidia Jasinska-Walc
- SABIC Technology & Innovation, STC Geleen, Urmonderbaan 22, Geleen, Netherlands
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Functional Materials, Chemical Faculty, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza Str. 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Rob Duchateau
- SABIC Technology & Innovation, STC Geleen, Urmonderbaan 22, Geleen, Netherlands
- Chemical Product Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, Netherlands
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12
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Du S, Yang S, Wang B, Li P, Zhu J, Ma S. Acetal-thiol Click-like Reaction: Facile and Efficient Synthesis of Dynamic Dithioacetals and Recyclable Polydithioacetals. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024:e202405653. [PMID: 38764409 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202405653] [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: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Dithioacetals are heavily used in organic, material and medical chemistries, and exhibit huge potential to synthesize degradable or recyclable polymers. However, the current synthetic approaches of dithioacetals and polydithioacetals are overwhelmingly dependent on external catalysts and organic solvents. Herein, we disclose a catalyst- and solvent-free acetal-thiol click-like reaction for synthesizing dithioacetals and polydithioacetals. High conversion, higher than acid catalytic acetal-thiol reaction, can be achieved. High universality was confirmed by monitoring the reactions of linear and cyclic acetals (including renewable bio-sourced furan-acetal) with aliphatic and aromatic thiols, and the reaction mechanism of monomolecular nucleophilic substitution (SN1) and auto-protonation (activation) by thiol was clarified by combining experiments and density functional theory computation. Subsequently, we utilize this reaction to synthesize readily recyclable polydithioacetals. By simple heating and stirring, linear polydithioacetals withM ‾ ${\bar M}$ w of ~110 kDa were synthesized from acetal and dithiol, and depolymerization into macrocyclic dithioacetal and repolymerization into polydithioacetal can be achieved; through reactive extrusion, a semi-interpenetrating polymer dynamic network with excellent mechanical properties and continuous reprocessability was prepared from poly(vinyl butyral) and pentaerythritol tetrakis(3-mercaptopropionate). This green and high-efficient synthesis method for dithioacetals and polydithioacetals is beneficial to the sustainable development of chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- 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
| | - 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
| | - Binbo Wang
- 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
| | - Pengyun Li
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, 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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13
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Zhang Y, Wu F, Yang HY, Wang G, Ren ZH, Guan ZH. Synthesis of Cycloaliphatic Polyamides via Palladium-Catalyzed Hydroaminocarbonylative Polymerization. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:12883-12888. [PMID: 38709642 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c01210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Polyamides represent one class of materials that is important in modern society. Because of the numerous potential applications of polyamides in various fields, there is a high demand for new polyamide structures, which necessitates the development of new polymerization methods. Herein, we report a novel and efficient palladium-catalyzed hydroaminocarbonylative polymerization of dienes and diamines for the synthesis of cycloaliphatic polyamides. The method employs readily available starting materials, proceeds in an atom-economic manner, and creates a series of new functional polyamides in high yields and high molecular weights. In contrast with the traditional polyamides based on adipic acid, the cycloaliphatic polyamides have superior thermal resistance, higher glass-transition temperature, and better solubility in common organic solvents, thus probably featuring the merits of high-performance and good processability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaodu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
| | - Fei Wu
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
| | - Hui-Yi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
| | - Gang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
| | - Zhi-Hui Ren
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
| | - Zheng-Hui Guan
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Natural Functional Molecule of the Ministry of Education, Department of Chemistry & Materials Science, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, P. R. China
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14
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Cheng C, Shi JX, Kang EH, Nelson TF, Sander M, McNeill K, Hartwig JF. Polymers from Plant Oils Linked by Siloxane Bonds for Programmed Depolymerization. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:12645-12655. [PMID: 38651821 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c01982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
The increased production of plastics is leading to the accumulation of plastic waste and depletion of limited fossil fuel resources. In this context, we report a strategy to create polymers that can undergo controlled depolymerization by linking renewable feedstocks with siloxane bonds. α,ω-Diesters and α,ω-diols containing siloxane bonds were synthesized from an alkenoic ester derived from castor oil and then polymerized with varied monomers, including related biobased monomers. In addition, cyclic monomers derived from this alkenoic ester and hydrosiloxanes were prepared and cyclized to form a 26-membered macrolactone containing a siloxane unit. Sequential ring-opening polymerization of this macrolactone and lactide afforded an ABA triblock copolymer. This set of polymers containing siloxanes underwent programmed depolymerization into monomers in protic solvents or with hexamethyldisiloxane and an acid catalyst. Monomers afforded by the depolymerization of polyesters containing siloxane linkages were repolymerized to demonstrate circularity in select polymers. Evaluation of the environmental stability of these polymers toward enzymatic degradation showed that they undergo enzymatic hydrolysis by a fungal cutinase from Fusarium solani. Evaluation of soil microbial metabolism of monomers selectively labeled with 13C revealed differential metabolism of the main chain and side chain organic groups by soil microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Jake X Shi
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Division of Chemical Sciences, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Eun-Hye Kang
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Taylor F Nelson
- Institute for Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Sander
- Institute for Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kristopher McNeill
- Institute for Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - John F Hartwig
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Division of Chemical Sciences, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
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15
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Zeng F, He L, Ma J, Fang D, Zeng Z, Bai T, Ding R, Liu B, Zhao H, Wang Y. Microcage flame retardants with complete recyclability and durability via reversible interfacial locking engineering. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2024; 11:1867-1876. [PMID: 38454889 DOI: 10.1039/d4mh00116h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Flame retardants are effective in protecting materials from fire but pose environmental challenges due to limited recyclability. Urgently needed for circular material economy are new flame retardants that are chemically recyclable and durable. Here, we report a new facile and scalable strategy for engineering reversible microcages with infinite chemical recyclability to starting monomers, exceptional durability, and versatile flame retardancy. This is achieved through a highly synergistic hierarchical assembly of easily obtainable phosphoric acid and Cu2+ monomers. By leveraging dynamic reversible assembly networks, microcages can be circularly and infinitely dissociated into starting monomers via eco-friendly pH adjustment. Remarkable recovery rates of 92% for phosphoric acid and 96.2% for Cu2+ monomers are achieved, while the separated virgin matrix undergoes conventional chemical recycling, facilitating reformulation and seamless reintroduction into new supply chains as needed. Notably, when integrated with matrix-like surfaces, microcage clasp matrices tightly engage through in situ formed interfacial locking structures, showcasing outstanding flame-retardant efficiency, prolonged durability in hydrothermal aging, and extensive applicability across diverse polymeric materials such as polyurethane, epoxy resin, and polycarbonate. This study emphasizes a novel, straightforward, and scalable chemical platform, utilizing reversible interfacial locking engineering, for the development of flame retardants that are not only infinitely recyclable but also durable and broadly applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Furong Zeng
- School of Chemical Engineering, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, No. 24, South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China.
| | - Lei He
- School of Chemical Engineering, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, No. 24, South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China.
| | - Jianwen Ma
- School of Chemical Engineering, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, No. 24, South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China.
| | - Danxuan Fang
- School of Chemical Engineering, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, No. 24, South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China.
| | - Zhiwei Zeng
- School of Chemical Engineering, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, No. 24, South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China.
| | - Tongyu Bai
- School of Chemical Engineering, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, No. 24, South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China.
| | - Rong Ding
- School of Chemical Engineering, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, No. 24, South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China.
| | - Bowen Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, No. 24, South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China.
| | - Haibo Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, No. 24, South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China.
| | - Yuzhong Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Friendly and Fire-Safety Polymeric Materials (MoE), National Engineering Laboratory of Eco-Friendly Polymeric Materials (Sichuan), State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, No. 24, South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, China.
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16
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Zhou L, Reilly LT, Shi C, Quinn EC, Chen EYX. Proton-triggered topological transformation in superbase-mediated selective polymerization enables access to ultrahigh-molar-mass cyclic polymers. Nat Chem 2024:10.1038/s41557-024-01511-2. [PMID: 38649467 DOI: 10.1038/s41557-024-01511-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
The selective synthesis of ultrahigh-molar-mass (UHMM, >2 million Da) cyclic polymers is challenging as an exceptional degree of spatiotemporal control is required to overcome the possible undesired reactions that can compete with the desired intramolecular cyclization. Here we present a counterintuitive synthetic methodology for cyclic polymers, represented here by polythioesters, which proceeds via superbase-mediated ring-opening polymerization of gem-dimethylated thiopropiolactone, followed by macromolecular cyclization triggered by protic quenching. This proton-triggered linear-to-cyclic topological transformation enables selective, linear polymer-like access to desired cyclic polythioesters, including those with UHMM surpassing 2 MDa. In addition, this method eliminates the need for stringent conditions such as high dilution to prevent or suppress linear polymer contaminants and presents the opposite scenario in which protic-free conditions are required to prevent cyclic polymer formation, which is capitalized to produce cyclic polymers on demand. Furthermore, such UHMM cyclic polythioester exhibits not only much enhanced thermostability and mechanical toughness, but it can also be quantitatively recycled back to monomer under mild conditions due to its gem-disubstitution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Liam T Reilly
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Changxia Shi
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Ethan C Quinn
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA.
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17
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Sun Y, Liu Z, Zhang C, Zhang X. Sustainable Polymers with High Performance and Infinite Scalability. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202400142. [PMID: 38421200 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202400142] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Our society has been pursuing high-performance biodegradable polymers made from facile methods and readily available monomers. Here, we demonstrate a library of enzyme-degradable polymers with desirable properties from the first reported step polyaddition of diamines, COS, and diacrylates. The polymers contain in-chain ester and thiourethane groups, which can serve as lipase-degradation and hydrogen-bonding physical crosslinking points, respectively, resulting in possible biodegradability as well as upgraded mechanical and thermal properties. Also, the properties of the polymers are scalable due to the versatile method and the wide variety of monomers. We obtain 46 polymers with tunable performance covering high-Tm crystalline plastics, thermoplastic elastomers, and amorphous plastics by regulating polymer structure. Additionally, the polymerization method is highly efficient, atom-economical, quantitatively yield, metal- and even catalyst-free. Overall, the polymers are promising green materials given their degradability, simple and modular synthesis, remarkable and tunable properties, and readily available monomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Sun
- National Key Laboratory of Biobased Transportation Fuel Technology, International Research Center for X Polymers, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, 310027, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ziheng Liu
- National Key Laboratory of Biobased Transportation Fuel Technology, International Research Center for X Polymers, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, 310027, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chengjian Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Biobased Transportation Fuel Technology, International Research Center for X Polymers, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, 310027, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinghong Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Biobased Transportation Fuel Technology, International Research Center for X Polymers, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, 310027, Hangzhou, China
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18
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Schwab S, Nelson TF, Mecking S. Chemically Recyclable and Biodegradable Vulcanized Rubber. ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING 2024; 12:6281-6288. [PMID: 38665800 PMCID: PMC11041115 DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c08435] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The cross-linked nature of vulcanized rubbers as used in tire and many other applications prohibits an effective closed-loop mechanical or chemical recycling. Moreover, vulcanization significantly retards the material's biodegradation. Here, we report a recyclable and biodegradable rubber that is generated by the vulcanization of amorphous, unsaturated polyesters. The elastic material can be broken down via solvolysis into the underlying monomers. After removal of the vulcanized repeat units, the saturated monomers, constituting the major share of the material, can be recovered in overall recycling rates exceeding 90%. Respirometric biodegradation experiments by 13CO2 tracking under environmental conditions via the polyesters' diol monomer indicated depolymerization and partial mineralization of the vulcanized polyester rubbers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon
T. Schwab
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science,
Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Taylor F. Nelson
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science,
Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Stefan Mecking
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science,
Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
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19
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Wang S, Feng H, Lim JYC, Li K, Li B, Mah JJQ, Xing Z, Zhu J, Loh XJ, Li Z. Recyclable, Malleable, and Strong Thermosets Enabled by Knoevenagel Adducts. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:9920-9927. [PMID: 38557104 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Plastic recycling is critical for waste management and achieving a circular economy, but it entails difficult trade-offs between performance and recyclability. Here, we report a thermoset, poly(α-cyanocinnamate) (PCC), synthesized using Knoevenagel condensation between terephthalaldehyde (TPA) and a triarm cyanoacetate star, that tackles this difficulty by harnessing its intrinsically conjugated and dynamic chemical characteristics. PCCs exhibit extraordinary thermal and mechanical properties with a typical Tg of ∼178 °C, Young's modulus of 3.8 GPa, and tensile strength of 102 MPa, along with remarkable flexibility and dimensional and chemical stabilities. Furthermore, end-of-life PCCs can be selectively degraded and partially recycled back into one starting monomer TPA for a new production cycle or reprocessed through dynamic exchange aided by cyanoacetate chain-ends. This study lays the scientific groundwork for the design of robust and recyclable thermosets, with transformative potential in plastic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Wang
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Singapore
| | - Hongzhi Feng
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Singapore
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Laboratory of Polymers and Composites, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jason Y C Lim
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117576, Singapore
| | - Ke Li
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Bofan Li
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Singapore
| | - Justin J Q Mah
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Zhenxiang Xing
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Jin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Based Polymeric Materials Technology and Application of Zhejiang Province, Laboratory of Polymers and Composites, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
| | - Xian Jun Loh
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Zibiao Li
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Singapore
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Singapore
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117576, Singapore
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20
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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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21
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Ximenis M, Monot J, Gabirondo E, Jeschke J, Martín-Vaca B, Bourissou D, Sardon H. Boosting the Reactivity of Bis-Lactones to Enable Step-Growth Polymerization at Room Temperature. Macromolecules 2024; 57:3319-3327. [PMID: 38616811 PMCID: PMC11008534 DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.3c02527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
The development of new sustainable polymeric materials endowed with improved performances but minimal environmental impact is a major concern, with polyesters as primary targets. Lactones are key monomers thanks to ring-opening polymerization, but their use in step-growth polymerization has remained scarce and challenging. Herein, we report a powerful bis(γ-lactone) (γSL) that was efficiently prepared on a gram scale from malonic acid by Pd-catalyzed cycloisomerization. The γ-exomethylene moieties and the spiro structure greatly enhance its reactivity toward ring-opening and enable step-growth polymerization under mild conditions. Using diols, dithiols, or diamines as comonomers, a variety of regioregular (AB)n copolymers with diverse linkages and functional groups (from oxo-ester to β-thioether lactone and β-hydroxy-lactame) have been readily prepared. Reaction modeling and monitoring revealed the occurrence of an original trans-lactonization process following the first ring-opening of γSL. This peculiar reactivity opens the way to regioregular (ABAC)n terpolymers, as illustrated by the successive step-growth polymerization of γSL with a diol and a diamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Ximenis
- POLYMAT, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Joxe Mari Korta Center Avda. Tolosa
72, 20018 Donostia-San
Sebastian, Spain
| | - Julien Monot
- Laboratoire
Hétérochimie Fondamentale et Appliquée (UMR 5069), Université de Toulouse (UPS), CNRS, 118 Route de Narbonne, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Elena Gabirondo
- POLYMAT, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Joxe Mari Korta Center Avda. Tolosa
72, 20018 Donostia-San
Sebastian, Spain
| | - Janna Jeschke
- POLYMAT, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Joxe Mari Korta Center Avda. Tolosa
72, 20018 Donostia-San
Sebastian, Spain
| | - Blanca Martín-Vaca
- Laboratoire
Hétérochimie Fondamentale et Appliquée (UMR 5069), Université de Toulouse (UPS), CNRS, 118 Route de Narbonne, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Didier Bourissou
- Laboratoire
Hétérochimie Fondamentale et Appliquée (UMR 5069), Université de Toulouse (UPS), CNRS, 118 Route de Narbonne, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Haritz Sardon
- POLYMAT
and Department of Polymers and Advanced Materials/Physics, Chemistry
and Technology, University of the Basque
Country UPV/EHU, Joxe
Mari Korta Center Avda. Tolosa 72, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
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22
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Zhao JZ, Yue TJ, Ren BH, Lu XB, Ren WM. Closed-loop recycling of sulfur-rich polymers with tunable properties spanning thermoplastics, elastomers, and vitrimers. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3002. [PMID: 38589410 PMCID: PMC11001992 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47382-6] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of closed-loop recycling polymers that exhibit excellent performance is of great significance. Sulfur-rich polymers possessing excellent optical, thermal, and mechanical properties are promising candidates for chemical recycling but lack efficient synthetic strategies for achieving diverse structures. Herein, we report a universal synthetic strategy for producing polytrithiocarbonates, a class of sulfur-rich polymers, via the polycondensation of dithiols and dimethyl trithiocarbonate. This strategy has excellent compatibility with a wide range of monomers, including aliphatic, heteroatomic, and aromatic dithiols enabling the synthesis of polytrithiocarbonates with diverse structures. The present synthesis strategy offers a versatile platform for the construction of thermoplastics, elastomers, and vitrimers. Notably, these polytrithiocarbonates can be easily depolymerized via solvolysis into the corresponding monomers, which can be repolymerized to virgin polymers without changing the material properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Zhuo Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials, 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, 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, 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, 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, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China.
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23
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Pereyra‐Camacho MA, Pardo I. Plastics and the Sustainable Development Goals: From waste to wealth with microbial recycling and upcycling. Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e14459. [PMID: 38588222 PMCID: PMC11001195 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastics pollution has become one of the greatest concerns of the 21st century. To date, around 10 billion tons of plastics have been produced almost exclusively from non-renewable sources, and of these, <10% have been recycled. The majority of discarded plastic waste (>70%) is accumulating in landfills or the environment, causing severe impacts to natural ecosystems and human health. Considering how plastics are present in every aspect of our daily lives, it is evident that a transition towards a Circular Economy of plastics is essential to achieve several of the Sustainable Development Goals. In this editorial, we highlight how microbial biotechnology can contribute to this shift, with a special focus on the biological recycling of conventional plastics and the upcycling of plastic-waste feedstocks into new value-added products. Although important hurdles will need to be overcome in this endeavour, recent success stories highlight how interdisciplinary approaches can bring us closer to a bio-based economy for the sustainable management of plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A. Pereyra‐Camacho
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSICMadridSpain
- Interdisciplinary Platform SusPlast, CSICMadridSpain
| | - Isabel Pardo
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSICMadridSpain
- Interdisciplinary Platform SusPlast, CSICMadridSpain
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24
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Deng Y, Zhang Q, Feringa BL. Dynamic Chemistry Toolbox for Advanced Sustainable Materials. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308666. [PMID: 38321810 PMCID: PMC11005721 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Developing dynamic chemistry for polymeric materials offers chemical solutions to solve key problems associated with current plastics. Mechanical performance and dynamic function are equally important in material design because the former determines the application scope and the latter enables chemical recycling and hence sustainability. However, it is a long-term challenge to balance the subtle trade-off between mechanical robustness and dynamic properties in a single material. The rise of dynamic chemistry, including supramolecular and dynamic covalent chemistry, provides many opportunities and versatile molecular tools for designing constitutionally dynamic materials that can adapt, repair, and recycle. Facing the growing social need for developing advanced sustainable materials without compromising properties, recent progress showing how the toolbox of dynamic chemistry can be explored to enable high-performance sustainable materials by molecular engineering strategies is discussed here. The state of the art and recent milestones are summarized and discussed, followed by an outlook toward future opportunities and challenges present in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanxin Deng
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research CenterSchool of Chemistry and Technology130 Meilong RoadShanghai200237China
- Stratingh Institute for Chemistry and Zernike Institute for Advanced MaterialsFaculty of Science and EngineeringUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 4Groningen9747 AGThe Netherlands
| | - Qi Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research CenterSchool of Chemistry and Technology130 Meilong RoadShanghai200237China
- Stratingh Institute for Chemistry and Zernike Institute for Advanced MaterialsFaculty of Science and EngineeringUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 4Groningen9747 AGThe Netherlands
| | - Ben L. Feringa
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research CenterSchool of Chemistry and Technology130 Meilong RoadShanghai200237China
- Stratingh Institute for Chemistry and Zernike Institute for Advanced MaterialsFaculty of Science and EngineeringUniversity of GroningenNijenborgh 4Groningen9747 AGThe Netherlands
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25
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Unger C, Schmalz H, Lipp J, Kretschmer WP, Kempe R. A Closed-Loop Recyclable Low-Density Polyethylene. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2307229. [PMID: 38258386 PMCID: PMC10987147 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is one of the most important plastics, which is produced unfortunately under extreme conditions. In addition, it consists of robust aliphatic C─C bonds which are challenging to cleave for plastic recycling. A low-pressure and -temperature (pethylene = 2 bara, T = 70 °C) macromonomer-based synthesis of long chain branched polyethylene is reported. The introduction of recycle points permits the polymerization (grafting to) of the macromonomers to form the long chain branched polyethylene and its depolymerization (branch cleavage). Coordinative chain transfer polymerization employing ethylene and co-monomers is used for the synthesis of the macromonomers, permitting a high flexibility of their precise structure and efficient synthesis. The long chain branched polyethylene material matches key properties of low-density polyethylene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Unger
- Anorganische Chemie II – KatalysatordesignSustainable Chemistry CentreUniversität BayreuthUniversitätsstraße 30 NW ID‐95440BayreuthGermany
| | - Holger Schmalz
- Makromolekulare Chemie II, Bavarian Polymer Institute (BPI)Universität BayreuthUniversitätsstraße 30 NW ID‐95440BayreuthGermany
| | - Jannis Lipp
- Anorganische Chemie II – KatalysatordesignSustainable Chemistry CentreUniversität BayreuthUniversitätsstraße 30 NW ID‐95440BayreuthGermany
| | - Winfried P. Kretschmer
- Anorganische Chemie II – KatalysatordesignSustainable Chemistry CentreUniversität BayreuthUniversitätsstraße 30 NW ID‐95440BayreuthGermany
| | - Rhett Kempe
- Anorganische Chemie II – KatalysatordesignSustainable Chemistry CentreUniversität BayreuthUniversitätsstraße 30 NW ID‐95440BayreuthGermany
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26
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Eck M, Mecking S. Closed-Loop Recyclable and Nonpersistent Polyethylene-like Polyesters. Acc Chem Res 2024; 57:971-980. [PMID: 38446139 PMCID: PMC10956388 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.3c00811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
ConspectusAliphatic polyesters based on long-chain monomers were synthesized for the first time almost a century ago. In fact, Carothers' seminal observations that founded the entire field of synthetic polymer fibers were made on such a polyester sample. However, as materials, they have evolved only over the past decade. This is driven by the corresponding monomers becoming practically available from advanced catalytic conversions of plant oils, and future prospects comprise a possible generation from third-generation feedstocks, such as microalgae or waste. Long-chain polyesters such as polyester-18.18 can be considered to be polyethylene chains with a low density of potential breakpoints in the chain. These do not compromise the crystalline structure or the material properties, which resemble linear high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and the materials can also be melt processed by injection molding, film or fiber extrusion, and filament deposition in additive manufacturing. At the same time, they enable closed-loop chemical recycling via solvolysis, which is also possible in mixed waste streams containing polyolefins and even poly(ethylene terephthalate). Recovered monomers possess a quality that enables the generation of recycled polyesters with properties on par with those of the virgin material. The (bio)degradability varies enormously with the constituent monomers. Polyesters based on short-chain diols and long-chain dicarboxylates fully mineralize under industrial composting conditions, despite their HDPE-like crystallinity and hydrophobicity. Fundamental studies of the morphology and thermal behavior of these polymers revealed the location of the in-chain groups and their peculiar role in structure formation during crystallization as well as during melting. All of the concepts outlined were extended to, and elaborated on further, by analogous long-chain aliphatic polymers with other in-chain groups such as carbonates and acetals. The title materials are a potential solution for much needed circular closed-loop recyclable plastics that also as a backstop if lost to the environment will not be persistent for many decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Eck
- Chair of Chemical Materials
Science, Department of Chemistry, University
of Konstanz, Universitätsstrasse 10, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Stefan Mecking
- Chair of Chemical Materials
Science, Department of Chemistry, University
of Konstanz, Universitätsstrasse 10, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
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27
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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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28
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Schwab S, Baur M, Nelson TF, Mecking S. Synthesis and Deconstruction of Polyethylene-type Materials. Chem Rev 2024; 124:2327-2351. [PMID: 38408312 PMCID: PMC10941192 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene deconstruction to reusable smaller molecules is hindered by the chemical inertness of its hydrocarbon chains. Pyrolysis and related approaches commonly require high temperatures, are energy-intensive, and yield mixtures of multiple classes of compounds. Selective cleavage reactions under mild conditions (
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon
T. Schwab
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science,
Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Maximilian Baur
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science,
Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Taylor F. Nelson
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science,
Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Stefan Mecking
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science,
Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
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29
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Abdellatif M, Nomura K. Synthesis of Polyesters Containing Long Aliphatic Methylene Units by ADMET Polymerization and Synthesis of ABA-Triblock Copolymers by One-Pot End Modification and Subsequent Living Ring-Opening Polymerization. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:9109-9122. [PMID: 38434832 PMCID: PMC10906047 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The synthesis of high-molecular-weight (Mn up to 62,000 g/mol) polyesters has been achieved by acyclic diene metathesis (ADMET) polymerization of α,ω-dienes prepared from biobased bis(undec-10-enoate) and diols [ethylene glycol (M1), propylene glycol (M2), 1,9-nonanediol (M3), 1,4-benzenedimethanol (M4), and hydroquinone (M5)] using ruthenium-carbene catalysts. Replacement of the solvent during the ADMET polymerization was effective for obtainment of the high-molecular-weight polymers (expressed as P1-P5). The melting temperatures (Tm) in the resultant polyesters were dependent upon the diol (middle) segment employed, and the polymer prepared from M5 exceeded 100 °C (a Tm value of 122.5 °C). The polymerization of M3 and M4 in the presence of 1,4-cis-diacetoxy-2-butene (DAB, as the chain transfer agent) afforded the telechelic polyesters [P3(OAc)2 and P4(OAc)2, respectively] containing acetoxy end groups exclusively. The resultant polymers containing hydroxy group termini [P3(OH)2 and P4(OH)2], prepared by the selective deprotection of the acetoxy end groups, were treated with AlEt3 followed by addition of ε-caprolactone to afford the ABA-type triblock copolymers exclusively, through a living ring-opening polymerization. The depolymerization (hydrolysis) under basic conditions (NaOH aqueous solution) of P3 was explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed
Mehawed Abdellatif
- Department
of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan
- Chemistry
of Tanning Materials and Leather Technology Department, Chemical Industries Research Institute, National Research
Centre, 33 El Buhouth
St., Dokki, Giza BP 12622, Egypt
| | - Kotohiro Nomura
- Department
of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan
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30
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Vuppaladadiyam SSV, Vuppaladadiyam AK, Sahoo A, Urgunde A, Murugavelh S, Šrámek V, Pohořelý M, Trakal L, Bhattacharya S, Sarmah AK, Shah K, Pant KK. Waste to energy: Trending key challenges and current technologies in waste plastic management. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169436. [PMID: 38160846 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Due to the 'forever' degrading nature of plastic waste, plastic waste management is often complicated. The applications of plastic are ubiquitous and inevitable in many scenarios. Current global waste plastics production is ca. 3.5 MMT per year, and with the current trend, plastic waste production will reach 25,000 MMT by 2040. However, the rapid growth in plastic manufacture and the material's inherent nature resulted in the accumulation of a vast amount of plastic garbage. The current recycling rate is <10 %, while the large volumes of discarded plastic waste cause environmental and ecological problems. Recycling rates for plastic vary widely by region and type of plastic. In some developed countries, the recycling rate for plastics is around 20-30 %, while in many developing nations, it is much lower. These statistics highlight the magnitude of the plastic waste problem and the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to manage plastic waste more effectively and reduce its impact on the environment. This review critically analyses past studies on the essential and efficient techniques for turning plastic trash into treasure. Additionally, an attempt has been made to provide a comprehensive understanding of the plastic upcycling process, the 3Rs policy, and the life-cycle assessment (LCA) of plastic conversion. The review advocates pyrolysis as one of the most promising methods of turning plastic trash into valuable chemicals. In addition, plastic waste management can be severely impacted due to uncontrollable events, such as Covid 19 pandemic. Recycling and chemical upcycling can certainly bring value to the end-of-life plastic. However, the LCA analysis indicated there is still a huge scope for innovation in chemical upcycling area compared to mechanical recycling. The formulation of policies and heightened public participation could play a pivotal role in reducing the environmental repercussions of plastic waste and facilitating a shift towards a more sustainable future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Abhisek Sahoo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Ajay Urgunde
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Auburn University, AL 36849, USA
| | - S Murugavelh
- CO(2) Research and Green Technologies Centre, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Vít Šrámek
- Department of Power Engineering, Faculty of Environmental Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic; Department of Gaseous and Solid Fuels and Air Protection, University of Chemistry and Technology, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Pohořelý
- Department of Power Engineering, Faculty of Environmental Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Lukáš Trakal
- Department of Environmental Geosciences, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 16500 Praha 6, Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Sankar Bhattacharya
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.
| | - Ajit K Sarmah
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Faculty of Engineering, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Kalpit Shah
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Kamal K Pant
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India.
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31
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Jang YJ, Nguyen S, Hillmyer MA. Chemically Recyclable Linear and Branched Polyethylenes Synthesized from Stoichiometrically Self-Balanced Telechelic Polyethylenes. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:4771-4782. [PMID: 38323928 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c12660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a widely used commercial plastic due to its excellent mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and water vapor barrier properties. However, less than 10% of HDPE is mechanically recycled, and the chemical recycling of HDPE is challenging due to the inherent strength of the carbon-carbon backbone bonds. Here, we report chemically recyclable linear and branched HDPE with sparse backbone ester groups synthesized from the transesterification of telechelic polyethylene macromonomers. Stoichiometrically self-balanced telechelic polyethylenes underwent transesterification polymerization to produce the PE-ester samples with high number-average molar masses of up to 111 kg/mol. Moreover, the transesterification polymerization of the telechelic polyethylenes and the multifunctional diethyl 5-(hydroxymethyl)isophthalate generated branched PE-esters. Thermal and mechanical properties of the PE-esters were comparable to those of commercial HDPE and tunable through control of the ester content in the backbone. In addition, branched PE-esters showed higher levels of melt strain hardening compared with linear versions. The PE-ester was depolymerized into telechelic macromonomers through straightforward methanolysis, and the resulting macromonomers could be effectively repolymerized to generate a high molar mass recycled PE-ester sample. This is a new and promising method for synthesizing and recycling high-molar-mass linear and branched PE-esters, which are competitive with HDPE and have easily tailorable properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon-Jung Jang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Sam Nguyen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Marc A Hillmyer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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32
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Kim JY, Kim KY, Jung WS, Kim HS, Oh B, Park J, Choi YE. Effects of micro-sized biodegradable plastics on Microcystis aeruginosa. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169044. [PMID: 38061645 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Plethora of plastics are being used in current society, generating huge amounts of plastic waste. Non-biodegradability of conventional plastics is one of the main challenges to treat plastic waste. In an effort to increase the efficiency of plastic waste treatment, biodegradable plastics have gained attention. Although the use of biodegradable plastics has been increased, their potential effects on the environments are not fully elucidated yet. In this study, the impacts of micro-sized non-biodegradable plastic (i.e., polystyrene (PS)) and micro-sized biodegradable plastics (i.e., polycaprolactone (PCL) and polylactic acid (PLA)) on Microcystis aeruginosa were investigated. Regardless of microplastic (MP) types, MP treatments inhibited the growth of M. aeruginosa at the beginning (4 days) while significant dose-dependent effect was not observed in the range of 0.1 to 10 mg/L. However, after long-term exposure (12 days), micro-sized biodegradable plastics stimulated the growth of M. aeruginosa (up to 73 % increase compared to the control). The photosynthetic activity showed a similar trend to the cell growth. The MP treatments induced the production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Indeed, micro-sized PCL and PLA stimulated the production of protein compounds in EPS. These might have affected the releases of chemicals from PCL and PLA, suggesting that the chemicals in biodegradable plastic leachates would promote the growth of M. aeruginosa in long-term exposure. The MP treatments also induced cyanotoxin (microcystin-LR) productions. Our results give a new insight into the cyanobacterial blooming and suggest a novel relationship between harmful algal blooms (HABs) and biodegradable plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee Young Kim
- Institute of Life Science and Natural Resources, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Ka Young Kim
- Institute of Life Science and Natural Resources, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Shik Jung
- Division of Environmental Science & Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Soo Kim
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01890, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeolnim Oh
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01890, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaewon Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Konkuk University, Chungcheongbuk-do 27478, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yoon-E Choi
- Division of Environmental Science & Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea.
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33
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Han XW, Zhang X, Zhou Y, Maimaitiming A, Sun XL, Gao Y, Li P, Zhu B, Chen EYX, Kuang X, Tang Y. Circular olefin copolymers made de novo from ethylene and α-olefins. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1462. [PMID: 38368405 PMCID: PMC10874424 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45219-w] [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: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Ethylene/α-olefin copolymers are produced in huge scale and widely used, but their after-use disposal has caused plastic pollution problems. Their chemical inertness made chemical re/upcycling difficult. Ideally, PE materials should be made de novo to have a circular closed-loop lifecycle. However, synthesis of circular ethylene/α-olefin copolymers, including high-volume, linear low-density PE as well as high-value olefin elastomers and block copolymers, presents a particular challenge due to difficulties in introducing branches while simultaneously installing chemical recyclability and directly using industrial ethylene and α-olefin feedstocks. Here we show that coupling of industrial coordination copolymerization of ethylene and α-olefins with a designed functionalized chain-transfer agent, followed by modular assembly of the resulting AB telechelic polyolefin building blocks by polycondensation, affords a series of ester-linked PE-based copolymers. These new materials not only retain thermomechanical properties of PE-based materials but also exhibit full chemical circularity via simple transesterification and markedly enhanced adhesion to polar surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Wang Han
- Shenzhen Grubbs Institute, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Xun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organometallic Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Youyun Zhou
- Shenzhen Grubbs Institute, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Aizezi Maimaitiming
- State Key Laboratory of Organometallic Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiu-Li Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Organometallic Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yanshan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Organometallic Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Peizhi Li
- Shenzhen Grubbs Institute, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Boyu Zhu
- Shenzhen Grubbs Institute, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Eugene Y-X Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1872, USA.
| | - Xiaokang Kuang
- Shenzhen Grubbs Institute, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yong Tang
- Shenzhen Grubbs Institute, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Organometallic Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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34
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Lu X, Xie P, Li X, Li T, Sun J. Acid-Cleavable Aromatic Polymers for the Fabrication of Closed-Loop Recyclable Plastics with High Mechanical Strength and Excellent Chemical Resistance. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202316453. [PMID: 38130147 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202316453] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Although closed-loop recycling of dynamic covalent bond-based plastics does not require catalysts, their mechanical strength and chemical stability remain a major concern. In this study, closed-loop recyclable poly(aryl imine) (PAI) plastics with high mechanical strength and excellent chemical resistance are fabricated by copolymerizing aromatic amines and aromatic aldehydes through dynamic imine bonds. The resulting PAI plastic with a tensile strength of 58.2 MPa exhibits excellent chemical resistance and mechanical stability in acidic and basic aqueous solutions and various organic solvents. The PAI plastics can be depolymerized in a mixed solvent of tetrahydrofuran (THF)/HCl aqueous solution through the dissociation of imine bonds, and the monomers can be facilely recovered with high purity and isolated yields due to the solubility difference between the aromatic amines and aromatic aldehydes in selective solvents. The efficient closed-loop recycling of the PAI plastic can also be realized through monomer conversion because the hydrolysis of the aromatic aldehydes generates aromatic amines. The recovered monomers can be used to re-fabricate original PAI plastics. This PAI plastic can be selectively recovered from complicated mixed polymer waste streams due to the mild depolymerization conditions of the PAI plastic and its high stability in most organic solvents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyuan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, P. R. China
| | - Peng Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, P. R. China
| | - Tianqi Li
- 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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35
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Go LOP, Abdellatif MM, Makino R, Shimoyama D, Higashi S, Hirano H, Nomura K. Synthesis of Network Biobased Aliphatic Polyesters Exhibiting Better Tensile Properties than the Linear Polymers by ADMET Polymerization in the Presence of Glycerol Tris(undec-10-enoate). Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:468. [PMID: 38399846 PMCID: PMC10891964 DOI: 10.3390/polym16040468] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Development of biobased aliphatic polyesters with better mechanical (tensile) properties in film has attracted considerable attention. This report presents the synthesis of soluble network biobased aliphatic polyesters by acyclic diene metathesis (ADMET) polymerization of bis(undec-10-enyl)isosorbide diester [M1, dianhydro-D-glucityl bis(undec-10-enoate)] in the presence of a tri-arm crosslinker [CL, glycerol tris(undec-10-enoate)] using a ruthenium-carbene catalyst, and subsequent olefin hydrogenation using RhCl(PPh3)3. The resultant polymers, after hydrogenation (expressed as HCP1) and prepared in the presence of 1.0 mol% CL, showed better tensile properties than the linear polymer (HP1) with similar molecular weight [tensile strength (elongation at break): 20.8 MPa (282%) in HP1 vs. 35.4 MPa (572%) in HCP1]. It turned out that the polymer films prepared by the addition of CL during the polymerization (expressed as a 2-step approach) showed better tensile properties. The resultant polymer film also shows better tensile properties than the conventional polyolefins such as linear high density polyethylene, polypropylene, and low density polyethylene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lance O’Hari P. Go
- Department of Chemistry, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan; (L.O.P.G.); (M.M.A.)
| | - Mohamed Mehawed Abdellatif
- Department of Chemistry, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan; (L.O.P.G.); (M.M.A.)
| | - Ryoji Makino
- Department of Chemistry, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan; (L.O.P.G.); (M.M.A.)
| | - Daisuke Shimoyama
- Department of Chemistry, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan; (L.O.P.G.); (M.M.A.)
| | - Seiji Higashi
- Osaka Research Institute of Industrial Science and Technology (ORIST), 1-6-50, Morinomiya, Joto-ku, Osaka 536-8553, Japan; (S.H.)
| | - Hiroshi Hirano
- Osaka Research Institute of Industrial Science and Technology (ORIST), 1-6-50, Morinomiya, Joto-ku, Osaka 536-8553, Japan; (S.H.)
| | - Kotohiro Nomura
- Department of Chemistry, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan; (L.O.P.G.); (M.M.A.)
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36
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Janani H, Marxsen SF, Eck M, Mecking S, Tashiro K, Alamo RG. Polymorphism and Stretch-Induced Transformations of Sustainable Polyethylene-Like Materials. ACS Macro Lett 2024:201-206. [PMID: 38261790 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.3c00639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Herein we demonstrate that polyethylene-like bioderived, biodegradable, and fully recyclable unbranched aliphatic polyesters, such as PE-2,18, develop hexagonal crystal structures upon quenching from the melt to temperatures <∼50 °C and orthorhombic-like packing at higher quenching temperatures or after isothermal crystallization. Both crystal types are layered. While all-trans CH2 packing characterizes the structure of the orthorhombic-like form, there is significant conformational disorder in the staggered long CH2 sequences of the hexagonal crystals. On heating, the hexagonal crystals transform to the orthorhombic type at ∼60 °C via melt recrystallization, but no change is apparent during heating samples with the orthorhombic form up to the melting point (∼95 °C). The hexagonal structure is of interest not only because it develops under very rapid quenching from the melt but also because under uniaxial tensile deformation it undergoes a stretch-induced transformation to the orthorhombic structure. Compared to deformation of orthorhombic specimens that maintain the same crystal type, such transformation results in larger strains and enhanced strain hardening, thus representing a desired toughening mechanism for this type of polyethylene-like materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Janani
- FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, 2525 Pottsdamer Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32310, United States
| | - Stephanie F Marxsen
- FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, 2525 Pottsdamer Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32310, United States
| | - Marcel Eck
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Stefan Mecking
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Kohji Tashiro
- Aichi Synchrotron Radiation Center, Knowledge Hub Aichi, Minami-Yamaguchi, Seto 489-0965, Japan
| | - Rufina G Alamo
- FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, 2525 Pottsdamer Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32310, United States
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37
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Ward CP, Reddy CM, Edwards B, Perri ST. To curb plastic pollution, industry and academia must unite. Nature 2024; 625:658-662. [PMID: 38253760 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-024-00155-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
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38
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Lu X, Zhang X, Zhang C, Zhang X. Cyclic Polyesters with Closed-Loop Recyclability from A New Chemically Reversible Alternating Copolymerization. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2306072. [PMID: 38037295 PMCID: PMC10811513 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202306072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Polyesters with both cyclic topology and chemical recyclability are attractive. Here, the alternating copolymerization of cyclic anhydride and o-phthalaldehyde to synthesize a series of cyclic and recyclable polyesters are reported for the first time. Besides readily available monomers, the copolymerization is carried out at 25 °C, uses common Lewis/Brønsted acids as catalysts, and achieves high yields within 1 h. The resulting polyesters possess well-defined alternating sequences, high-purity cyclic topology, and tunable structures using distinct two monomer sets. Of interest, the copolymerization manifests obvious chemical reversibility as revealed by kinetic and thermodynamic studies, making the unprecedented polyesters easy to recycle to their distinct two monomers in a closed loop at high temperatures. This work furnishes a facile and efficient method to synthesize cyclic polyesters with closed-loop recyclability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxian Lu
- National Key Laboratory of Biobased Transportation Fuel TechnologyInternational Research Center for X PolymersDepartment of Polymer Science and EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Xun Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Biobased Transportation Fuel TechnologyInternational Research Center for X PolymersDepartment of Polymer Science and EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Chengjian Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Biobased Transportation Fuel TechnologyInternational Research Center for X PolymersDepartment of Polymer Science and EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Xinghong Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Biobased Transportation Fuel TechnologyInternational Research Center for X PolymersDepartment of Polymer Science and EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
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39
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Chiba Y, Kawatani R, Kohsaka Y. Chemically Recyclable Vinyl Polymers by Free Radical Polymerization of Cyclic Styrene Derivatives. ACS Macro Lett 2023; 12:1672-1676. [PMID: 38010412 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.3c00573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
To achieve a sustainable society supported by resource circulation, vinyl monomers that can radically polymerize and be recovered from vinyl polymers (VPs) are desirable. However, the chemical recycling of VPs remains challenging because of the difficulty in quantitative and selective main-chain scission or depolymerization. In this study, VPs of cyclic styrene derivatives, such as 3-methylene phthalide, were investigated to be chemically recyclable. The ring-opening of the pendant groups by saponification enhanced the steric hindrance of the pendants, which resulted in main-chain scission and depolymerization to the monomer precursors. Highly efficient chemical recycling was achieved by suspending the polymer in aqueous KOH. These results facilitate resource circulation toward achieving a sustainable society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yota Chiba
- Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University, 3-15-1 Tokida, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567, Japan
| | - Ryo Kawatani
- 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), Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research (ICCER), Shinshu University, 4-17-1 Wakasato, Nagano, Nagano 380-8553, Japan
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40
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Si G, Li C, Chen M, Chen C. Polymer Multi-Block and Multi-Block + Strategies for the Upcycling of Mixed Polyolefins and Other Plastics. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202311733. [PMID: 37850388 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202311733] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Due to a continued rise in the production and use of plastic products, their end-of-life pollution has become a pressing global issue. One of the biggest challenges in plastics recycling is the separation of different polymers. Multi-block copolymers (MBCPs) represent an efficient strategy for the upcycling of mixed plastics via induced compatibilization, but this approach is limited by difficulties associated with synthesis and structural modification. In this contribution, several synthetic strategies are explored to prepare MBCPs with tunable microstructures, which were then used as compatibilizer additives to upcycle mixtures of polyolefins with other plastics. A multi-block+ strategy based on a reactive telechelic block copolymer platform was introduced, which enabled block extension during the in situ melt blending of mixed plastics, leading to better compatibilizing properties as well as better 3D printing capability. This strategy was also applicable to more complex ternary plastic blends. The polymer multi-block strategy enabled by versatile MBCPs synthesis and the multi-block+ strategy enabled by in situ block extension show exciting opportunities for the upcycling of mixed plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guifu Si
- Key Laboratory of Precision and Intelligent Chemistry, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Chao Li
- Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Key Laboratory of Structure and Functional Regulation of Hybrid Materials of Ministry of Education, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - Min Chen
- Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Key Laboratory of Structure and Functional Regulation of Hybrid Materials of Ministry of Education, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - Changle Chen
- Key Laboratory of Precision and Intelligent Chemistry, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
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41
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Hou Y, Zhu G, Catt SO, Yin Y, Xu J, Blasco E, Zhao N. Closed-Loop Recyclable Silica-Based Nanocomposites with Multifunctional Properties and Versatile Processability. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2304147. [PMID: 37844996 PMCID: PMC10724396 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202304147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Most plastics originate from limited petroleum reserves and cannot be effectively recycled at the end of their life cycle, making them a significant threat to the environment and human health. Closed-loop chemical recycling, by depolymerizing plastics into monomers that can be repolymerized, offers a promising solution for recycling otherwise wasted plastics. However, most current chemically recyclable polymers may only be prepared at the gram scale, and their depolymerization typically requires harsh conditions and high energy consumption. Herein, it reports less petroleum-dependent closed-loop recyclable silica-based nanocomposites that can be prepared on a large scale and have a fully reversible polymerization/depolymerization capability at room temperature, based on catalysis of free aminopropyl groups with the assistance of diethylamine or ethylenediamine. The nanocomposites show glass-like hardness yet plastic-like light weight and toughness, exhibiting the highest specific mechanical strength superior even to common materials such as poly(methyl methacrylate), glass, and ZrO2 ceramic, as well as demonstrating multifunctionality such as anti-fouling, low thermal conductivity, and flame retardancy. Meanwhile, these nanocomposites can be easily processed by various plastic-like scalable manufacturing methods, such as compression molding and 3D printing. These nanocomposites are expected to provide an alternative to petroleum-based plastics and contribute to a closed-loop materials economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Hou
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular SciencesLaboratory of Polymer Physics and ChemistryInstitute of ChemistryChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
- Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials (IMSEAM)Heidelberg University69120HeidelbergGermany
- Organic Chemistry Institute (OCI)Heidelberg University69120HeidelbergGermany
| | - Guangda Zhu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular SciencesLaboratory of Polymer Physics and ChemistryInstitute of ChemistryChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
- Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials (IMSEAM)Heidelberg University69120HeidelbergGermany
- Organic Chemistry Institute (OCI)Heidelberg University69120HeidelbergGermany
| | - Samantha O. Catt
- Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials (IMSEAM)Heidelberg University69120HeidelbergGermany
- Organic Chemistry Institute (OCI)Heidelberg University69120HeidelbergGermany
| | - Yuhan Yin
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular SciencesLaboratory of Polymer Physics and ChemistryInstitute of ChemistryChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
| | - Jian Xu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular SciencesLaboratory of Polymer Physics and ChemistryInstitute of ChemistryChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
| | - Eva Blasco
- Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials (IMSEAM)Heidelberg University69120HeidelbergGermany
- Organic Chemistry Institute (OCI)Heidelberg University69120HeidelbergGermany
| | - Ning Zhao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular SciencesLaboratory of Polymer Physics and ChemistryInstitute of ChemistryChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190P. R. China
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42
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Eck M, Stoltze C, Mecking S. Waxes from Long-Chain Aliphatic Difunctional Monomers. ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING 2023; 11:16716-16721. [PMID: 38037642 PMCID: PMC10685719 DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c06951] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Petrochemical polyethylene waxes (Mn = 800-8000 g/mol for commercial Ziegler waxes) as additives, lubricants, and release agents are essential to numerous products and production processes. The biodegradability of this class of compounds when unintentionally released to the environment is molar mass dependent and subject to ongoing discussions, and alternatives to conventional polyethylene waxes are desirable. By employing bottom-up and top-down approaches, that is nonstoichiometric A2 + B2 polycondensation and chain scission, respectively, linear waxes with multiple in-chain ester groups as biodegradation break points could be obtained. Specifically, waxes with 12,12 (WLE-12,12, WLE = waxes linear ester) and 2,18 (WLE-2,18) carbon atom linear ester repeat unit motifs were accessible over a wide range of molar masses (Mn ≈ 600-10 000 g/mol). In addition to the molar mass, the type of end group functionality (i.e., methyl ester, hydroxy, or carboxylic acid end groups) significantly impacts the thermal properties of the waxes, with higher melting points observed for carboxylic acid end groups (e.g., Tm = 83 °C for carboxylic acid-terminated WLE-12,12 with Mn,NMR = 1900 g/mol, Tm = 92 °C for WLE-2,18 with Mn,NMR = 2200 g/mol). A HDPE-like orthorhombic crystalline structure and rheological properties comparable to a commercial polyethylene wax suggest WLE-12,12 and WLE-2,18 are viable biodegradable and biosourced alternatives to conventional, petrochemical polyethylene waxes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Eck
- Department of Chemistry, University
of Konstanz, Universitätsstr. 10, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Celia Stoltze
- Department of Chemistry, University
of Konstanz, Universitätsstr. 10, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Stefan Mecking
- Department of Chemistry, University
of Konstanz, Universitätsstr. 10, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
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43
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Bai X, Aireddy DR, Roy A, Ding K. Solvent-Free Depolymerization of Plastic Waste Enabled by Plastic-Catalyst Interfacial Engineering. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202309949. [PMID: 37775978 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202309949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Depolymerization of condensation polymers by chemolysis often suffers from the large usage of solvents and homogeneous catalysts such as acids, bases, and metal salts. The catalytic efficiency of heterogeneous catalysts is largely constrained by the poor interfacial contact between solid catalysts and solid plastics below melting points. We report here our discovery of autogenous heterogeneous catalyst layer on polyethylene terephthalate surfaces during the generally believed homogeneous catalytic depolymerization process. Inspired by the "contact mass" concept in industrial chlorosilane production, we further demonstrate that the construction of plastic-catalyst solid-solid interfaces enables solvent-free depolymerization of polyethylene terephthalate by vapor phase methanolysis at relatively low temperatures. Trace amounts of earth-abundant element (zinc) introduced by electrostatic adsorption is sufficient for catalyzing the depolymerization. The concept of plastic-catalyst contact mass interfacial catalysis might inspire new pathways for tackling plastic waste problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshen Bai
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Divakar R Aireddy
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Amitava Roy
- Center for Advanced Microstructures & Devices, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70806, USA
| | - Kunlun Ding
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
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44
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Saito K, Türel T, Eisenreich F, Tomović Ž. Closed-Loop Recyclable Poly(imine-acetal)s with Dual-Cleavable Bonds for Primary Building Block Recovery. CHEMSUSCHEM 2023; 16:e202301017. [PMID: 37518676 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202301017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Chemical recycling offers a promising solution for the end-of-life treatment of synthetic polymers. However, the efficient recovery of well-defined recycled building blocks continues to be a major challenge, especially for crosslinked thermosets. Here, we developed vanillin-based polymer networks functionalized with dual-cleavable imine and acetal bonds that facilitate chemical recycling to primary building blocks and their convenient separation at the molecular level. A library of crosslinked poly(imine-acetal)s was synthesized by combining the in-bulk synthesized liquid di-vanillin acetal monomer (DVA) with commercially available liquid di- and triamines under solvent-free conditions. These thermosets showed tailor-made thermal and mechanical properties along with outstanding chemical recyclability. Under aqueous acidic conditions, poly(imine-acetal)s selectively and completely disintegrate into small molecules. During the polymer design stage, these compounds were carefully selected to enable facile separation without tedious techniques. As a result, the primary building blocks were isolated in high yields and purity and immediately reused to produce fresh polymers with identical thermomechanical properties. Since our "design for recycling" concept aims at obtaining the primary building blocks rather than monomers after depolymerization, a plethora of possibilities are unlocked to utilize these chemical resources, including closed-loop recycling as portrayed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Saito
- Polymer Performance Materials Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven (The, Netherlands
| | - Tankut Türel
- Polymer Performance Materials Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven (The, Netherlands
| | - Fabian Eisenreich
- Polymer Performance Materials Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven (The, Netherlands
| | - Željko Tomović
- Polymer Performance Materials Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven (The, Netherlands
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45
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Baur M, Mast NK, Brahm JP, Habé R, Morgen TO, Mecking S. High-Density Polyethylene with In-Chain Photolyzable and Hydrolyzable Groups Enabling Recycling and Degradation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202310990. [PMID: 37738209 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202310990] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Polyethylenes endowed with low densities of in-chain hydrolyzable and photocleavable groups can improve their circularity and potentially reduce their environmental persistency. We show with model polymers derived from acyclic diene metathesis polymerization that the simultaneous presence of both groups has no adverse effect on the polyethylene crystal structure and thermal properties. Post-polymerization Baeyer-Villiger oxidation of keto-polyethylenes from non-alternating catalytic ethylene-CO chain growth copolymerization yield high molecular weight in-chain keto-ester polyethylenes (Mn ≈50.000 g mol-1 ). Oxidation can proceed without chain scission and consequently the desirable materials properties of HDPE are retained. At the same time we demonstrate the suitability of the in-chain ester groups for chemical recycling by methanolysis, and show that photolytic degradation by extended exposure to simulated sunlight occurs via the keto groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Baur
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science, Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Nina K Mast
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science, Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Jan P Brahm
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science, Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Rosa Habé
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science, Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Tobias O Morgen
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science, Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Stefan Mecking
- Chair of Chemical Materials Science, Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
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46
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Johnson AM, Johnson JA. Thermally Robust yet Deconstructable and Chemically Recyclable High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)-Like Materials Based on Si-O Bonds. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023:e202315085. [PMID: 37903133 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202315085] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Polyethylene (PE) is the most widely produced synthetic polymer. By installing chemically cleavable bonds into the backbone of PE, it is possible to produce chemically deconstructable PE derivatives; to date, however, such designs have primarily relied on carbonyl- and olefin-related functional groups. Bifunctional silyl ethers (BSEs; SiR2 (OR'2 )) could expand the functional scope of PE mimics as they possess strong Si-O bonds and facile chemical tunability. Here, we report BSE-containing high-density polyethylene (HDPE)-like materials synthesized through a one-pot catalytic ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) and hydrogenation sequence. The crystallinity of these materials can be adjusted by varying the BSE concentration or the steric bulk of the Si-substituents, providing handles to control thermomechanical properties. Two methods for chemical recycling of HDPE mimics are introduced, including a circular approach that leverages acid-catalyzed Si-O bond exchange with 1-propanol. Additionally, despite the fact that the starting HDPE mimics were synthesized by chain-growth polymerization (ROMP), we show that it is possible to recover the molar mass and dispersity of recycled HDPE products using step-growth Si-O bond formation or exchange, generating high molecular weight recycled HDPE products with mechanical properties similar to commercial HDPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alayna M Johnson
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Jeremiah A Johnson
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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47
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Nelson TF, Rothauer D, Sander M, Mecking S. Degradable and Recyclable Polyesters from Multiple Chain Length Bio- and Waste-Sourceable Monomers. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202310729. [PMID: 37675615 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202310729] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Monomers sourced from waste or biomass are often mixtures of different chain lengths; e.g. catalytic oxidation of polyethylene waste yields mixtures of dicarboxylic acids (DCAs). Yet, polyesters synthesized from such monomer mixtures have rarely been studied. We report polyesters based on multiple linear aliphatic DCAs, present in chain length distributions that vary in their centers and ranges. We demonstrate that these materials can adopt high-density polyethylene-like solid state structures, and are ductile (e.g. Et 610 MPa), allowing for injection molding, or film and fiber extrusion. Melting and crystallization points of the polyesters show no odd-even effects as dipoles cannot favorably align in the crystal, similar to traditional odd carbon numbered, long-chain DCA polyesters. Biodegradation studies of 13 C-labelled polyesters in soil reveal rapid mineralization, and depolymerization by methanolysis indicates suitability for closed-loop recycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor F Nelson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätstrasse 10, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Dario Rothauer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätstrasse 10, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Michael Sander
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Mecking
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, Universitätstrasse 10, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
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48
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Zhao Y, Rettner EM, Harry KL, Hu Z, Miscall J, Rorrer NA, Miyake GM. Chemically recyclable polyolefin-like multiblock polymers. Science 2023; 382:310-314. [PMID: 37856598 DOI: 10.1126/science.adh3353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Polyolefins are the most important and largest volume plastics produced. Unfortunately, the enormous use of plastics and lack of effective disposal or recycling options have created a plastic waste catastrophe. In this work, we report an approach to create chemically recyclable polyolefin-like materials with diverse mechanical properties through the construction of multiblock polymers from hard and soft oligomeric building blocks synthesized with ruthenium-mediated ring-opening metathesis polymerization of cyclooctenes. The multiblock polymers exhibit broad mechanical properties, spanning elastomers to plastomers to thermoplastics, while integrating a high melting transition temperature (Tm) and low glass transition temperature (Tg), making them suitable for use across diverse applications (Tm as high as 128°C and Tg as low as -60°C). After use, the different plastics can be combined and efficiently deconstructed back to the fundamental hard and soft building blocks for separation and repolymerization to realize a closed-loop recycling process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucheng Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Emma M Rettner
- School of Advanced Materials Discovery, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Katherine L Harry
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Zhitao Hu
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Joel Miscall
- Renewable Resources and Enabling Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO 80401, USA
- BOTTLE Consortium, Golden, CO 80401, USA
| | - Nicholas A Rorrer
- Renewable Resources and Enabling Sciences Center, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO 80401, USA
- BOTTLE Consortium, Golden, CO 80401, USA
| | - Garret M Miyake
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
- School of Advanced Materials Discovery, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
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49
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Zhang Z, Wang J, Ge X, Wang S, Li A, Li R, Shen J, Liang X, Gan T, Han X, Zheng X, Duan X, Wang D, Jiang J, Li Y. Mixed Plastics Wastes Upcycling with High-Stability Single-Atom Ru Catalyst. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:22836-22844. [PMID: 37794780 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c09338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Mixed plastic waste treatment has long been a significant challenge due to complex composition and sorting costs. In this study, we have achieved a breakthrough in converting mixed plastic wastes into a single chemical product using our innovative single-atom catalysts for the first time. The single-atom Ru catalyst can convert ∼90% of real mixed plastic wastes into methane products (selectivity >99%). The unique electronic structure of Ru sites regulates the adsorption energy of mixed plastic intermediates, leading to rapid decomposition of mixed plastics and superior cycle stability compared to traditional nanocatalysts. The global warming potential of the entire process was evaluated. Our proposed carbon-reducing process utilizing single-atom catalysts launches a new era of mixed plastic waste valorization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zedong Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Longpan Road 159, Nanjing 210037, China
- Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - Xiaohu Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Shule Wang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Longpan Road 159, Nanjing 210037, China
- Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - Ang Li
- Faculty of Materials and Manufacturing, Beijing Key Lab of Microstructure and Properties of Advanced Materials, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Runze Li
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ji Shen
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xiao Liang
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Tao Gan
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Faculty of Materials and Manufacturing, Beijing Key Lab of Microstructure and Properties of Advanced Materials, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xusheng Zheng
- National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230029, China
| | - Xuezhi Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Dingsheng Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Jianchun Jiang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, College of Chemical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Longpan Road 159, Nanjing 210037, China
- Institute of Chemical Industry of Forest Products, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - Yadong Li
- Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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50
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Sun C, Ma X, Ni L, Ding M, Xia J, Zheng Y, Yu C, Wang B, Pan P. Hexagonal Phase Formation and Crystalline Structural Transition in Long-Spaced Aliphatic Polyesters with Side Groups. ACS Macro Lett 2023; 12:1324-1330. [PMID: 37713680 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.3c00402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Side substitution is an effective method for the chemical modification and functionalization of linear polyesters. The presence of side groups can have a profound effect on the crystalline structure and phase transition of semicrystalline polyesters. Herein, we synthesized the long-spaced polyesters with -OH and -CH3 side groups and various methylene segment lengths and studied the effects of the side groups on the crystal polymorph and phase transition of substituted polyesters. The substituted polyesters grow in the thermally stable phase (form I) at a higher temperature. However, the polyesters crystallize in a metastable hexagonal phase (form II) with trans chain conformation at a lower temperature. The metastable form II transforms into the more stable form I during long-time annealing or upon heating; this phase transition is accompanied by chain tilting and crystal lamellar thickening. This study has elucidated the critical role of side groups in the polymorphic crystallization and phase transition of linear polyesters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxuan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xuekuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lingling Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Mengru Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jianfei Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ying Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Zhejiang University-Quzhou, 99 Zheda Road, Quzhou 324000, China
| | - Chengtao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Zhejiang University-Quzhou, 99 Zheda Road, Quzhou 324000, China
| | - Bao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Zhejiang University-Quzhou, 99 Zheda Road, Quzhou 324000, China
| | - Pengju Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Institute of Zhejiang University-Quzhou, 99 Zheda Road, Quzhou 324000, China
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