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)
Période du rapport: 2023-06-19 au 2025-06-18
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.
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.
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.