A platform for making recyclable polymers

Project description

This project will leverage new reactions discovered in our lab to make new polymers that are generally recyclable. The vast majority of plastic, rubber, fibres and other synthetic polymers are not recycled: they are sent to landfill or incinerated, generating unacceptable levels of pollution. For polymers that are recycled, this typically involves heating and reshaping the polymer. Because this form of recycling degrades the polymer, it can only be done limited times. We aim to make entirely new polymers that can disassemble on demand, converting back to the original building blocks. This so-called chemical recycling is distinct from most recycling strategies and promises to provide more sustainable plastics, rubber, and fibres that we require in our daily lives.

Assumed knowledge

General chemistry, organic chemistry, basic polymer chemistry

Note: You need to register interest in projects from different supervisors (not a number of projects with the one supervisor).
You must also contact each supervisor directly to discuss both the project details and your suitability to undertake the project.