Polymers and methods of depolymerization of polymers using pendent groups

Incorporating thermolytically labile phthalimide ester monomers in PMMA polymers allows efficient, catalyst-free depolymerization to monomer units, addressing inefficiencies in existing recycling methods and maintaining polymer quality.

WO2025188373A1 Publication Date: 2025-09-11UNIV OF FLORIDA RESEARCH FOUNDATION INC
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/US2024/052978
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-03-11
Filing Date
2024-10-25
Publication Date
2025-09-11

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Current recycling methods for polymers, particularly poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), often result in reduced molecular weight and mechanical properties, and existing chemical recycling methods for vinyl-based polymers are inefficient and require catalysts or solvents.

Method used

A method involving the incorporation of low mol% thermolytically labile phthalimide ester-containing monomers during polymerization, followed by heat-induced depolymerization at 180 to 300°C, achieving near-quantitative conversion to monomer units without catalysts, suitable for high molecular weight PMMA.

Benefits of technology

The method yields high monomer recovery rates (>95%) and lower molecular weight polymer byproducts, maintaining transparency and efficiency for ultra-high molecular weight PMMA, distinguishing it from chain-end initiated depolymerization.

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Abstract

The present disclosure provides for polymers and modified polymers and methods of depolymerization of polymers and modified polymers. The present disclosure provides for an efficient approach for the depolymerization of polymers pendent group activation. The present disclosure includes polymers that include a low mol% of thermolytically labile groups (e.g., phthalimide ester-containing monomers). The polymers can be synthesized via conventional radical polymerization to produce polymers that are colorless, transparent and closely resemble the unfunctionalized polymer.
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