Degradable and recyclable thermosets from dihydrofuran
Innovative thermosets created from biobased 2,3-dihydrofuran via ring opening metathesis polymerization and photocationic crosslinking offer recyclability and degradability, with potential applications in sustainable manufacturing.
Overview
This technology offers a novel approach to creating recyclable and degradable thermosets using the biobased monomer 2,3-dihydrofuran (DHF). The process involves ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) followed by photocationic crosslinking in a one-pot method. This sustainable approach allows for the tuning of mechanical and degradation properties by manipulating reaction parameters such as catalyst identity and loading, reaction time, and light intensity. The potential to incorporate various comonomers expands the material properties, enabling applications in sustainable manufacturing and light-based 3D printing.
Technical specifications
- Utilizes commercially available 2,3-dihydrofuran (DHF) as a base monomer.
- Employs ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) and photocationic crosslinking techniques.
- Catalyst loading and reaction time can be adjusted to tune properties.
- Capable of full manufacturing through light-based 3D printing.
- Incorporates comonomers like cyclic disulfides and cyclic aryl acetals (CAAs) for enhanced reprocessing and solubilization.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level 4, indicating that the technology has been validated in a laboratory setting with ongoing research to optimize processability and material properties. Further validation efforts are focused on expanding the use of alternative ROMP catalysts and incorporating additional comonomers to enhance functionality and reprocessability.
About Cornell University
Cornell University is a comprehensive private, land-grant research university with campuses in Ithaca and New York City, combining significant scale with cross-disciplinary breadth. Industry connects through open-access user facilities and prototyping labs, pilot-scale testbeds, and a research and technology park that provide pathways from discovery to demonstration. A statewide extension network and integration with a major hospital system enable real-world deployment, while a graduate campus embedded in New York City’s tech corridor provides direct access to startups, venture investors, and corporate R&D teams. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, the Department of Energy, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP management, licensing, startup formation, and corporate partnerships across campuses.
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