Designed from Biobased Materials for Recycling: Imine-Based Covalent Adaptable Networks

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Thermosets are widely used but lack recyclability, hindering sustainability.
• Biobased raw materials and design for recyclability are key for sustainable thermosets.
• Covalent adaptable networks (CANs) offer a promising route by combining thermoset properties with thermoplastic recyclability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current research on biobased thermosets synthesized using Schiff base chemistry.
• To categorize these materials based on biobased components and discuss synthesis and curing methods.
• To analyze the properties and recyclability of the resulting thermosets.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of biobased thermosets utilizing Schiff base chemistry.
• Categorization of materials by biobased feedstock.
• Discussion of synthesis, curing, material properties, and recyclability.

Main Results:

• Schiff base chemistry enables the creation of dynamic covalent bonds in biobased thermosets.
• These biobased CANs exhibit properties of thermosets while allowing for thermal reprocessability and recyclability.
• Various biobased components have been successfully employed in Schiff base thermoset fabrication.

Conclusions:

• Biobased thermosets fabricated via Schiff base chemistry are a viable sustainable alternative.
• The dynamic nature of imine bonds in CANs facilitates recyclability and self-healing properties.
• Further research is needed to address challenges and fully realize the potential of these materials.