A crosslinked waterborne poly(vinyl acetate) for greenhouse gas fixation with improved elastomeric properties, shape-memory ability, and recyclability

The development of raw materials from methane and carbon dioxide holds significant potential to cut green-house gas (GHG) emissions and reduce the global carbon footprint. As an important monomer, vinyl acetate (VAc) can be produced by the consumption of acetic acid, which will potentially contribute to the reduction of GHGs emission. However, polymers based on VAc are usually prepared from emulsion polymerization in water which brings about the challenges of using modification processes to improve their properties. Here, a newly developed crosslink was able to establish covalently adaptable networks directly in water, enabling the formation of a poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) composite. As a result, PVAc emulsions using a monomer of 100% VAc could be transformed from a soft and weak adhesive polymer into an elastomeric polymer composite network with an elongation (775%) at break and flexibility. With the enhanced rubbery modulus, the polymer possesses characteristics for shape-memory material applications with 93% shape fixity and 99% shape recovery after repeated deformation and shape fixity for three times. The recyclability of the PVAc thermosets was demonstrated after granulating and remolding three times, representing an opportunity for designing a greenhouse gas fixing material.

Automated summary

The development of raw materials from methane and carbon dioxide has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and global carbon footprint. Researchers have developed a new crosslink that can establish adaptable networks directly in water, enabling the production of a poly(vinyl acetate) composite with enhanced flexibility and elasticity. The material also exhibits shape-memory characteristics and recyclability.