Sustainable Approach for the Synthesis of a Semicrystalline Polymer with a Reversible Shape-Memory Effect

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Sustainable Chemistry

Background:

• Shape-memory polymers (SMPs) offer significant potential across various industries but face sustainability challenges.
• Developing eco-friendly alternatives to conventional SMPs is crucial for environmental responsibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a sustainable, biodegradable semicrystalline polymer using biomass-derivable precursors.
• To achieve catalyst-free polyesterification for a greener synthesis route.
• To evaluate the shape-memory properties and 3D structure fabrication capabilities of the new polymer.

Main Methods:

• Employed catalyst-free polyesterification using biomass-derivable monomers.
• Synthesized poly(1,8-octanediol-co-1,12-dodecanedioate-co-citrate) (PODDC).
• Investigated the shape-memory performance (fixity, recovery, strain) and 3D reconfiguration potential.

Main Results:

• Achieved excellent shape fixity (98%) and shape recovery (98%).
• Demonstrated a large reversible actuation strain of 28%.
• Successfully reconfigured a 2D film into a 3D shape using mild polymerization conditions.

Conclusions:

• The study presents a sustainable and biodegradable SMP (PODDC) synthesized via a catalyst-free method.
• The developed polymer exhibits promising shape-memory properties and a facile method for 3D structure construction.
• This work contributes to advancing sustainable SMPs and simplifying 3D shape fabrication.