Abstract
Covalent adaptable networks (CANs) can be decomposed in suitable solvents via bond exchange reactions. Repolymerization can occur by heating the decomposed solution and evaporating the solvent. This solvent-assisted decomposition and repolymerization approach can be used to recycle CANs. In this study, the solvent evaporation from decomposed CAN solutions along with the repolymerization of decomposed chain segments are investigated using molecular dynamics simulations. The evolution of density profiles and chain segment lengths are presented to characterize the solvent evaporation and network repolymerization. The effects of solvent molecule size and evaporation rate on the evaporation and repolymerization processes are analyzed. Our results show that a polymer-rich layer at the solution surface quickly forms when evaporating into a vacuum. The polymer-rich layer significantly inhibits the evaporation of solvent molecules with larger size. Molecules have sufficient time to diffuse when evaporating at a slow rate, thus a more homogenous density distribution can be achieved.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
