Metal-free initiators pave the way for chemically recyclable polymers with industrially relevant properties

Abstract

To solve the environmental disaster that is generated by legacy plastics accumulation, researchers are looking to design plastics with enhanced end-of-life options, but many circular plastics do not meet industrial requirements. Here, we highlight a metal-free approach to produce chemically recyclable poly(1,3-dioxolane) with ultra-high molecular weight and comparable properties to one of the most produced plastics, polyethylene.