CAREER: CAS: Chemically Recyclable Polyolefins with Tunable Ceiling Temperatures and Thermomechanical Properties

NSF Award Search · 01002829DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $607,924 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY Synthetic polymers are used everywhere in our daily lives, with applications ranging from packaging and construction materials to electronics and medical devices. However, the lack of efficient recycling for polymer waste has resulted in its accumulation in the environment, causing negative impacts on ecosystems. Depolymerization, which involves breaking down polymer waste into its building blocks (monomers), has emerged as a promising solution for reducing the environmental burden of plastics. Nevertheless, extremely high temperatures (and thus energy) are typically needed for the depolymerization process of commodity polymers. This project aims to address these challenges by designing novel recyclable polymer materials that can be easily depolymerized back to monomers under mild conditions. In addition, the project will systematically investigate the relationship between polymer structures and their depolymerization performance. This knowledge will aid in the design of next-generation polymer materials with enhanced sustainability and eco-friendliness. Through this project, the next generation of polymer scientists will be trained in contemporary polymer research. Furthermore, a Summer Polymer Academy will be established for local middle and high school students to inspire their interest in STEM education and polymer science. TECHNICAL SUMMARY Depolymerization, which transforms polymers back into their constituent monomers, offers an ideal app

Key facts

NSF award ID
2442666
Awardee
University of New Haven (CT)
SAM.gov UEI
FZBDVM1MBTN9
PI
Hao Sun
Primary program
01002829DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
CAS-Critical Aspects of Sustainability, CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev, NANO NON-SOLIC SCI & ENG AWD, Sustainable Materials, Nanomaterials
Estimated total
$607,924
Funds obligated
$118,229
Transaction type
Continuing Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2030