Work

Bulk depolymerization of PMMA using difunctional pyromellitic or monofunctional phthalimidic ATRP initiators

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study presents a new approach for enhancing the depolymerization efficiency of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) by incorporating multiple depolymerization sites within the polymer chains. Four distinct PMMA polymers were synthesized, each bearing different combinations of phthalimide ester and chloride, or bromide functionalities placed in specific positions in the polymer chain. The polymers were prepared by atom transfer radical polymerization. Increasing the number of activation sites enhanced the depolymerization yield. Experiments conducted under reduced pressure in bulk revealed depolymerization yields ranging from 73 % to 86 % achieved within 30 min at 220 °C. Thermogravimetric analysis performed on polymers with four different molecular weights demonstrated the efficiency of this approach also for polymers with higher molecular weights. A similar strategy was also performed on crosslinked networks by incorporating activatable pyromellitic moieties to reach 85 % of depolymerization yield. This strategy demonstrates the potential for efficient depolymerization of PMMA at relatively low catalyst loadings and temperatures, offering promising prospects for sustainable polymer recycling processes.

Source: European Polymer Journal

DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2024.113646

Authors: Ferdinando De Luca Bossa, Gorkem Yilmaz, Carlo Gericke, Krzysztof Matyjaszewski

Institution: Carnegie Mellon University

Language: English

Topic: Polymer crystallization and properties

Subfield: Polymers and Plastics

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,170