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Depolymerizable Olefinic Polymers Based on Fused-Ring Cyclooctene Monomers
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Dynamic Covalent Chemistry: A Boon for Closed-Loop Recycling of Polymer Networks
Bo Yang1, Tiantian Ni1, Qian Zhao1
1State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and Low-Carbon Technology, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
Precision Chemistry
|June 1, 2026
Summary
Closing the loop on polymer recycling is difficult for thermosets. Dynamic covalent chemistry offers a promising solution for sustainable polymer materials and closed-loop recycling.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Chemistry
Background:
- Historical focus on polymer synthesis is shifting towards sustainable management due to environmental and resource concerns.
- Closed-loop recycling is an ideal pathway for sustainable polymer management.
- Chemically cross-linked thermosetting polymer networks present significant challenges for closed-loop recycling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the obstacles in closed-loop recycling of polymer networks.
- To trace the development of dynamic covalent chemistry as a recycling strategy.
- To provide an overview of reversible chemical systems for network recycling.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and analysis of dynamic covalent chemistry.
- Examination of inherent obstacles in polymer network recycling.
- Overview of reversible chemical systems for sustainable polymer materials.
Main Results:
- Dynamic covalent chemistry presents a viable, albeit nascent, strategy for thermoset recycling.
- Identified specific reversible chemical systems suitable for closed-loop recycling.
- Highlighted current challenges and future opportunities in the field.
Conclusions:
- Advances in dynamic covalent chemistry are crucial for enabling sustainable development in polymer materials.
- Further research is needed to overcome current challenges in implementing dynamic covalent chemistry for closed-loop recycling.
- This field holds significant potential for the growth of emerging sustainable polymer materials.
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