Biodegradable and Chemically Recyclable Thermoplastic Elastomers Prepared by Ring-Opening Polymerization of Cyclic...

The large production and improper disposal of conventional polymer materials have led to the continuous depletion of petroleum resources and severe environmental pollution, necessitating the advancement of a sustainable and circular polymer economy. Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), as a type of important polymer materials, have been used in a wide range of applications but generally consist of non-degradable and non-renewable styrenic block copolymers. In recent years, sustainable aliphatic block copolyester-based TPEs that are derived from various cyclic monomers have undergone explosive growth due to their advantages of potential biodegradability, good mechanical properties, and remarkable elasticity. This Review underscores recent advancements of sustainable aliphatic block copolyester-based TPEs by ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of cyclic monomers, emphasizing their preparation and the discussion of the relationship between structure and property. In particular, chemically recyclable TPEs that have emerged recently will be highlighted. Furthermore, the current challenges and possible future directions for developing sustainable TPEs are discussed to foster a more circular polymer economy.