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Updated: Sep 13, 2025
08:12
Depolymerizable Olefinic Polymers Based on Fused-Ring Cyclooctene Monomers
Published on: December 16, 2022
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Supertough and Multirecyclable Cross-Linked Polyurethane Enabled by Supramolecular Chain Extenders and Noncovalent
Weiheng Lai1, Bo Qin2, Xiao Cao3
1Key Laboratory of Organic Optoelectronics and Molecular Engineering, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
Journal of the American Chemical Society
|July 31, 2025
Summary
Researchers developed supertough, recyclable cross-linked polyurethanes using supramolecular chemistry. This innovation enhances material durability and enables efficient recycling, addressing key challenges in polymer sustainability.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science and Engineering
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Chemistry
Background:
- Cross-linked polyurethanes are vital high-performance elastomers known for mechanical strength and durability.
- A significant challenge is balancing in-use stability with recyclability for these materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop supertough and multirecyclable cross-linked polyurethanes.
- To integrate in-use durability with dynamic recyclability in polymer materials.
Main Methods:
- Utilized supramolecular chain extenders and noncovalent cross-linkers.
- Combined robust covalent networks with high-density hydrogen-bonded networks.
- Leveraged rapid and reversible dynamic exchange in hydrogen bonds for processability.
Main Results:
- Achieved enhanced mechanical strength (50 MPa tensile stress) and solvent resistance.
- Demonstrated exceptional toughness (300 MJ/m³).
- Maintained over 96% recycling efficiency after six cycles, outperforming conventional polyurethanes.
Conclusions:
- Successfully integrated in-use durability and dynamic recyclability in cross-linked polyurethanes.
- The developed materials offer a sustainable pathway for polymers with tunable mechanical properties.
- This approach provides a promising solution for eco-friendly polymer applications.
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