Thesis Proposal : Synthesis and study of new Covalent Adaptable Networks – Softmat, Toulouse (07/04/2024)

In the field of materials science and engineering, polymers play a crucial role due to their wide range of applications. However, in light of growing environmental concerns, there is an urgent need to develop more sustainable polymer materials. While thermoplastics offer recyclability and reshaping capabilities, they often lack the necessary mechanical performance for demanding applications. On the other hand, thermosets offer superior mechanical properties but are not recyclable or reusable, raising increasind concerns regarding waste. To adress this dilemma, a new class of polymer materials called Covalent Adaptable Networks (CANs) has recently been developped. These materials bridge the gap between thermosets and thermoplastics by offering both cross-linked structure and recyclability. CANs feature reversible covalent bonds, primarly based on the cleavage and reforming of bonds such as ester-alcohol (transesterification) or amine-imine (transamination). Recently, a new exchange reaction has been discovered in our team, providing an opportunity to develop and study a whole range of CANs. In this project, we propose to explore this new family of materials through the synthesis of CAN’s constitutive monomers ans their utilization. We will also study exchange mechanisms and mechanical properties of the obtained CANs.

Publié le 07/04/2024