Emerging Applications of CO 2 ‐Based Polyurethanes: Bridging Material Sustainability and High‐Performance Engineering
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Carbon dioxide‐derived polyols (CO 2 ‐polyols), synthesized via the copolymerization of CO 2 with epoxides, have emerged as a compelling sustainable alternative to petroleum‐based polyols for polyurethane (PU) manufacturing, offering the dual benefit of sequestering waste CO 2 and reducing reliance on fossil feedstocks. However, the carbonate linkages embedded within the CO 2 ‐polyol backbone impart a chain rigidity that alters intermolecular interactions and physico‐mechanical behavior relative to conventional polyols, creating uncertainty over how CO 2 incorporation translates into end‐use performance and slowing industrial adoption despite clear environmental incentives. This review maps the diverse application frontiers of CO 2 ‐polyol‐derived PUs. Specifically, we highlight their critical roles in adhesives, coatings, thermal stimuli‐ responsive shape‐memory materials, waterborne PUs with enhanced hydrolytic and oxidative resistance, lithium‐ion battery binders, and polyurethane foams. Across these systems, we describe how tuning the carbonate unit content and polyol functionality allows the rigidity, crosslink density, and thermal transitions of the resulting PUs to be precisely engineered, often matching or exceeding the performance of conventional counterparts while retaining a favorable sustainability profile. Collectively, this review provides a practical design framework to accelerate the transition of CO 2 ‐polyol‐based PUs from laboratory‐scale demonstrations to industrially viable, sustainable materials.
Source: ChemSusChem
DOI: 10.1002/cssc.71132
Authors: Kihyuk Sung, Hye‐Young Jang
Institution: Ajou University
Language: English
Subfield: Process Chemistry and Technology
Field: Chemical Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,550
OpenAlex ID: W7219740374