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Designed for Molecular Recycling: A Lignin-Derived Semi-aromatic Biobased Polymer
Published on: November 30, 2020
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Upcycling aromatic polymers through C-H fluoroalkylation.
Sally E Lewis1, Bradley E Wilhelmy1, Frank A Leibfarth1
1Department of Chemistry , University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , 125 South Rd , Chapel Hill , NC 27599 , USA .
Chemical Science
|July 26, 2019
Summary
This study presents a new method for modifying aromatic polymers using photocatalysis. This approach functionalizes plastic waste, enabling upcycling and property diversification without compromising material integrity.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Organic Chemistry
Background:
- Aromatic polymers possess unique properties but are challenging to recycle due to their stability.
- Current methods for altering aromatic polymer properties are limited, hindering their broader application and recyclability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a versatile platform for the C-H functionalization of aromatic polymers.
- To enable the modification of post-consumer plastic waste into valuable materials.
- To enhance the properties and recyclability of commodity plastics.
Main Methods:
- Photocatalytic generation of electrophilic fluoroalkyl radicals under mild conditions.
- Direct C-H functionalization of various polyaromatic substrates, including plastic waste.
- Tuning fluorination density via reagent concentration or perfluoroalkyl chain length.
- Introducing bromodifluoromethyl groups as initiators for atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP).
Main Results:
- Successful functionalization of commercially relevant aromatic polymers and plastic waste.
- Preservation of the inherent thermomechanical properties of the polymers.
- Tunable material properties through controlled fluorination.
- Demonstrated grafting of vinyl polymers via ATRP initiated from functionalized polymers.
Conclusions:
- The developed method offers a versatile approach to impart new chemical functionality to aromatic polymers.
- This strategy provides an efficient pathway for upcycling post-consumer plastic waste.
- The technique allows for the diversification of properties in otherwise recalcitrant commodity plastics.
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