Upcycling polynorbornene derivatives into chemically recyclable multiblock linear and thermoset plastics.

Synthetic polymers have found widespread use with functional lifetimes from seconds to decades. However, the lack of end-of-life treatment for these plastics is causing a significant environmental and human health crisis due to their persistence and bioaccumulation. Upcycling post-consumer plastic waste to products with inherent recyclability is an attractive strategy to tackle this problem, as it can broaden the range of accessible materials and uncover unprecedented features while dealing with current plastic waste.

Tailoring the Properties of Chemically Recyclable Polyethylene-Like Multiblock Polymers by Modulating the Branch Structure.

Developing plastics that fill the need of polyolefins yet are more easily recyclable is a critical need to address the plastic waste crisis. However, most efforts in this vein have focused on high-density polyethylene (PE), while many different types of PE exist. To create broadly sustainable PE with modular properties, we present the synthesis, characterization, and demonstration of materials applications for chemically recyclable PE-like multiblock polymers prepared from distinct hard and soft blocks using ruthenium-catalyzed dehydrogenative polymerization.