Machine Learning for Developing Sustainable Polymers

Sustainable polymers from renewable resources have been gaining importance due to their recyclability and reduced environmental impact. However, their development through conventional trial-and-error methods remains inefficient and resource-intensive. Machine learning (ML) has emerged as a powerful tool in polymer science, enabling rapid prediction, and discovery of new chemicals and materials. In this review, we examine emerging trends in ML applications for sustainable polymer development, focusing on catalyst discovery, property optimization, and new polymer design. We analyze unique challenges in applying ML to sustainable polymers and evaluate proposed solutions, providing insights for future development in this rapidly evolving field.