Hydrolysis and Oxidation in Vitrimers: Linking Chemical Degradation to Constitutive Behavior and Recyclability

NSF Award Search · 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $462,358 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Epoxy thermosets are widely used in engineering applications due to their superior adhesive strength, structural integrity, and chemical resistance. However, their permanently crosslinked molecular structure prevents reshaping or recycling after use, creating significant sustainability challenges. The emergence of covalently adaptable thermosets, known as vitrimers, offers a promising pathway toward recyclable thermoset materials. Yet, the same dynamic bond exchange mechanisms that enable vitrimer reprocessability also make them susceptible to long-term degradation in harsh environments. Prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures, oxygen, and moisture can alter their chemical structure and compromise mechanical performance. Despite their promise for applications in aerospace, naval systems, and other demanding environments, a fundamental understanding of how environmental aging affects vitrimer durability and recyclability is lacking. The objective of this project is to establish a comprehensive framework to elucidate how aging processes influence the mechanical integrity, bond exchange dynamics, and long-term reliability of vitrimers, enabling their sustainable deployment in high-performance applications. The project integrates experimental characterization, theoretical modeling, and computational simulations to investigate the coupled effects of hydrolytic and thermo-oxidative aging on vitrimer behavior. Systematic experiments across multiple length scales will quantify the evolution of mechanical properties under controlled environmental exposures, establishing direct links between degradation mechanisms and macroscopic performance. Concurrently, a diffusion–reaction framework will be developed and coupled with a transient network theory-based constitutive model to capture the interplay between irreversible chemical degradation and dynamic bond exchange reactions. These efforts aim to uncover the mechanistic pathways governing vitrimer aging and to provide pr

Key facts

NSF award ID
2554138
Awardee
Michigan Technological University (MI)
SAM.gov UEI
GKMSN3DA6P91
PI
Trisha Sain
Primary program
01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
SOLID MECHANICS, MATERIALS DESIGN
Estimated total
$462,358
Funds obligated
$462,358
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
08/01/2026 → 07/31/2029