Our second line of research addresses the global challenge posed by plastic materials that cannot be reused after damage or that persist in the environment without degrading. To tackle this issue, we introduce labile chemical bonds into carbon-based polymers or utilize dynamic covalent bonds that also form strong hydrogen bonds. In both approaches, our goal is to create novel materials with tunable degradation properties—so they do not accumulate in the environment—or with self-healing capabilities, allowing them to be reused.
(1) Fundamental studies of self-assembly and polymerization processes:
The controlled synthesis of well-defined polymers and copolymers is well established. The microstructure of copolymers significantly influences their properties, which is especially relevant for applications requiring biodegradability, water compatibility, or compact folding behavior. To precisely control this microstructure, monomer reactivities must be matched; therefore, we employ automated polymerization systems. On one hand, we integrate automated polymer synthesis with detailed studies of the resulting polymers’ and copolymers’ properties. On the other hand, we investigate how introducing secondary interactions, such as hydrogen bonding, influences the thermal and mechanical characteristics of the materials. These studies are conducted both in bulk and in solution.
(2) Application of degradable and reusable materials:
We are developing smart polymeric materials that can be easily reshaped, reused, and broken down into their constituent components. Our approach to dynamic networks is grounded in a deep understanding of the materials’ molecular properties. We primarily focus on siloxane-based, reprocessable, and reshapeable transparent, high-modulus dynamic covalent polymeric networks for use in coatings. Additionally, we leverage recent advancements in the copolymerization of vinyl-based monomers with cyclic ketene acetals via radical ring-opening polymerization. This strategy enables the introduction of biodegradability into highly functional single-use formulation polymers and supports the development of degradable SCPNs. Ultimately, our goal is to apply insights from structure–property relationships to enhance the practical applicability of these materials.
