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Updated: Jan 29, 2026
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Closed-loop Neuro-robotic Experiments to Test Computational Properties of Neuronal Networks
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Sustainable Polyurethane Systems: Integrating Green Synthesis and Closed-Loop Recovery.
Tae Hui Kim1, Hyeong Seo Kim1, Sang-Ho Lee1
1Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea.
Polymers
|January 28, 2026
Summary
Sustainable polyurethanes (PUs) are developed using green synthesis from renewable resources and advanced chemical recycling. This approach enables closed-loop recovery, paving the way for a circular economy in PU materials.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Materials Chemistry
- Sustainable Chemistry
Background:
- Polyurethanes (PUs) are vital industrial polymers known for durability but pose recycling challenges due to their crosslinked structure.
- Current disposal methods (landfilling, incineration) lead to resource depletion and environmental harm.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review integrated strategies for sustainable polyurethanes (PUs).
- To unify green synthesis methods with closed-loop recovery approaches for PUs.
Main Methods:
- Review of bio-based polyols and phosgene-free isocyanates from renewable feedstocks.
- Examination of chemical recycling techniques like acidolysis and aminolysis for monomer recovery.
- Analysis of PU vitrimers and dynamic covalent polymer networks (DCPNs) for reprocessable thermoset-like materials.
Main Results:
- Bio-based feedstocks offer alternatives to petrochemicals, reducing toxicity.
- Chemical recycling methods facilitate the recovery of high-purity monomers.
- Vitrimers and DCPNs present promising reprocessable PU architectures.
Conclusions:
- An integrated framework combining green synthesis, chemical recycling, and novel material design is crucial.
- These advancements support the development of a circular economy for polyurethanes (PUs).
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