The development of bio-supported homogeneous organocatalysts with improved recycling potential through sequential de- and re-polymerization and their use in CO2 valorization catalysis

Project Information

RECIRCULATE

Grant agreement ID: 101110356

DOI

10.3030/101110356

Project closed

EC signature date 12 May 2023

Start date 19 June 2023

End date 18 June 2025

Funded under

• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

Total cost

No data

EU contribution

€ 181 152,96

Coordinated by

FUNDACIO INSTITUT CATALA D'INVESTIGACIO QUIMICA
Spain

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - RECIRCULATE (The development of bio-supported homogeneous organocatalysts with improved recycling potential through sequential de- and re-polymerization and their use in CO2 valorization catalysis)

Reporting period: 2023-06-19 to 2025-06-18

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

This work presents the development of new biodegradable plastics that can carry and release drug molecules in a controlled way. Researchers created two types of specialized building blocks (cyclic carbonates) that were chemically linked to a drug called oxaprozin. These were then used to make a new kind of polymer that can be precisely tuned for drug content. Importantly, the material can break down under specific conditions to release the active drug and recover useful by-products, showing promise for applications in controlled drug delivery and recyclable medical materials.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

This study introduces a new class of sustainable biopolymer made from natural sources like bio-based terpenes and carbon dioxide. Using a catalytic process, researchers successfully created biodegradable polycarbonates from 2-menthene oxide and limonene oxide—compounds derived from renewable resources. The materials’ properties could be fine-tuned by adjusting the composition of the starting ingredients. Importantly, these biohybrid polymers could be broken down efficiently to recover over 95% of the original natural components, showing great potential for chemical recyclability and the development of circular, eco-friendly polycarbonate.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

This research showcases an innovative method for recycling biobased plastics into useful new materials. The study focuses on a plant-derived plastic called poly(menthene carbonate) (PMC), which can be selectively broken down into its original components under mild catalytic conditions. These recovered building blocks were then transformed into new, functional monomers that can be reused to create fresh types of plastics. This approach highlights a closed-loop, circular system, where plastic waste can be turned back into valuable materials, supporting the future of sustainable and customizable polymer design.

Terpolymerization reaction