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Energy Transition Institute

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Energy Transition

Enabling Polyolefin Circularity via Chemical Functionalization, Compatibilization, and Upcycling Megan L. Robertson (PI), Brad P . Carrow (Co-PI), Olafs Daugulis (Co-PI), Alamgir Karim (Co-PI), Ramanan Krishnamoorti (Co-PI), Maurice S. Brookhart (Senior Personnel)

Meet The Team




Our project aims to tackle one of the most pressing global challenges: plastic waste accumulation. By leveraging cutting-edge innovations in polymer chemistry andengineering, we are working toward creating sustainable solutions for polyolefin circularity. Our approach integrates advancements in chemical functionalization, compatibilization, and upcycling, aligning with green chemistry principles to minimize environmental impact.

Objectives

  • Sustainable Recycling: Developing techniques to transform low-value plastic waste into high-value products.
  • Upcycling Innovations: Designing durable materials with extended lifespans, reducing waste and improving resource efficiency.
  • Circular Processing: Creating pathways for chemical recycling and reuse to reduce reliance on virgin materials.

Why It Matters

Plastic materials, especially polyolefins, are integral to various industries such asautomotive, biomedical, construction, and packaging. However, their environmental footprint poses significant challenges:

  • Limited recycling options for polyolefins, which account for over 60% of total U.S. plastic production.
  • Growing concerns about microplastic pollution and its impact on ecosystems and public health.

Through this project, we aim to:

  • Enhance recycling efficiency through novel compatibilizers for mixed waste streams.
  • Convert waste plastics into advanced materials like thermoset polyurethanes.
  • Develop chemically recyclable polyolefins with a focus on environmental sustainability.

Our Approach

1. Modular Recycling:

We are engineering innovative polymer architectures to enhance the compatibility of mixed plastic waste streams. These compatibilizers are designed to strengthen interfaces and improve processing efficiency.

2. Upcycling to Value-Added Products:

Our methods transform waste plastics into durable materials such as thermoset polyurethanes, which are used in high-performance applications like insulation and automotive components.

3. Circular Polyolefins:

By embedding reversible chemical bonds into polyolefin structures, we aim to enable their depolymerization and reuse under mild conditions, ensuring efficient separation and reconstitution.

Impact

This research has the potential to revolutionize plastic waste management by:

  • Reducing environmental pollution through scalable, sustainable solutions.
  • Promoting a circular economy in the plastics industry.
  • Creating opportunities for industrial collaborations in recycling and upcycling technologies.

Collaborators

  • Principal Investigator: Megan L. Robertson
  • Co-Investigators: Brad P . Carrow, Olafs Daugulis, Alamgir Karim, Ramanan Krishnamoorti

Get Involved

To learn more about our efforts or collaborate with us, visit the Welch Foundation Grant Announcement or contact our research team at the 91Æƽâ°æ.