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

> **NSF 01002829DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of New Haven (CT) · $607,924

## 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 organization:** 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

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2442666

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2442666, CAREER: CAS: Chemically Recyclable Polyolefins with Tunable Ceiling Temperatures and Thermomechanical Properties. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2442666. Licensed CC0.

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