Properties Of Polymers Research Articles

Optical properties of polyvinyl alcohol-glass waste powder composites

This study investigates the effect of glass waste powder content on the UV–Vis spectroscopy of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The glass powder was obtained from the waste of fluorescent tubes. The solution casting method was utilized to prepare PVA- glass composite films by adding glass powder with 10, 20, 30, and 40 wt. %. UV–Vis absorption spectra of PVA- glass samples were recorded in the range 220–1100 nm. The optical parameters were calculated as follow: absorbance, absorption coefficient, transmittance, refractive index, extinction coefficient, dielectric constant, and imaginary dielectric constant. Based on the XRD results, it is revealed that the PVA become more amorphous with increasing amount of glass waste. UV–Vis spectroscopy studies demonstrated that, for all samples, the absorbance, absorption coefficient, extinction coefficient, and Ei increases with the increase in the amount of glass waste. On the other hand, transmittance decreases with increasing amount of glass waste. The change of the studied properties with wavelength depends strongly on the amount of glass waste powder. At visible region, the transmittance is stable with increasing wavelength for samples containing 20, 30 and 40%. Glass waste, while the pure sample and the sample containing 10% glass waste, the transmittance increases with the wavelength. On the other hand, the absorbance and absorption coefficient for all samples decreases rapidly up to a specific wavelength and then the change is very slight at longer wavelengths. Also, the increase of extinction coefficient and imaginary dielectric constant with wavelength is related to the amount of glass powder added. The change of dielectric constant and refractive index with wavelength depends on the amount of the filler, where the pure and the sample filled with 10% glass powder show normal dispersion, while the other samples show anomalous dispersion. Finally, the pure sample had the highest energy gap (5.7 eV) while the sample containing 30% glass powder had the lowest value (4.8 eV). Through this study, it become possible to change the optical properties of PVA by adding glass waste powder, which allows the possibility of benefiting from the new composites to be used in different applications according to their response to different wavelengths. From an economic and environmental point of view, these wastes can be utilized instead of being thrown away by reusing them as polymer fillers, taking into consideration the change in the optical properties of the matrix polymer.

Simultaneous Toughening and Strengthening of Ductile Polymer by Rigid Polymeric Fillers: The Role of Interfacial Entanglement.

The modification of thermoplastic polymers is frequently impeded by the inherent contradiction between their toughness and strength. In this study, an effective strategy to significantly improve the mechanical properties of ductile polymers by simply adding a complimentary rigid polymer is introduced. This work uses a semi-crystalline polymer aliphatic polyketone (POK) as the matrix material and a small quantity of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) as the rigid polymer, through establishing molecular chain entanglements at the interface to produce POK/PMMA blends with exceptional mechanical property. The experimental study shows that PMMA as a small island phase is homogeneously dispersed in the POK matrix, while the interfacial adhesion between the POK matrix and PMMA island is enhanced by the high-density molecular chain entanglement between PMMA and the POK matrix. The strong entanglements and high concentration of PMMA domains promote uniform crazes and overall shear yielding. As a result, the POK/PMMA blend exhibits exceptional mechanical properties with notched impact strength, elongation at break, tensile strength, and Young's modulus, of 20kJm-2, 326%, 60 and 2185MPa, respectively. A universal approach is further suggested for enhancing the toughness and strength of ductile polymers using a complimentary rigid polymer.

Impact of Nano CoFe1.75Er0.25O4 Loading Ratios on the Dielectric and Radiation Shielding Properties of Polyvinyl Chloride Polymer

Our research described in this paper was aimed to modify the dielectric and radiation shielding characteristics of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)/x wt % CoFe1.75Er0.25O4 (CFEO) composites to be used in modern applications. PVC polymer loaded with nano CFEO were fabricated by a casting process. The structural and morphological attributes of PVC/x wt % CoFe1.75Er0.25O4 composites were evaluated utilizing X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques. The dielectric characteristics were evaluated via an Inductance, L, Capacitance, C, and Resistance, R (LCR) meter bridge. The dielectric constant and ac conductivity of PVC exhibited a maximum value when it was doped with 1 wt % CFEO. The energy density of the PVC polymer exhibited an irregular drop after being doped with various ratio amounts of CFEO. The radiation shielding aspects were investigated applying the Phy-X/Photon Shielding and Dosimetry (PSD) software. All samples exhibited relatively elevated mass-attenuation coefficient (MAC) values: x = 0 (10.45 cm2/g), x = 0.5 (12.2 cm2/g), x = 1 (13.88 cm2/g), x = 2 (17.07 cm2/g), and x = 3 (20.05 cm2/g) at lower energies, specifically 15 keV, signifying a pronounced photoelectric effect. The MAC rose from 0.0898 cm2/g (x = 0) to 0.0918 cm2/g (x = 5) as the energy rose to 0.5 MeV. The linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) values at 15 keV for all composites exhibit a notable rise with elevated concentrations of CFEO doping: 14.63, 17.35, 20.07, 25.45, and 30.80 cm−1 for samples with x = 0, 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 wt%, respectively. At 15 keV, the mean-free path (MFP) values for samples with x = 0, 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 wt % were approximately 0.068, 0.058, 0.049, 0.039, and 0.033 cm, respectively. At 1 MeV, the MFP value for the same samples increased to 10.934, 10.774, 10.618, 10.318 and 10.035 cm, respectively. The effects of doping amount on the Exposure Buildup Factor (EBF) and the Energy Absorption Buildup Factor (EABF) were also explored.

Experimental investigation and molecular dynamics simulations of plasma treatment on the interface properties of carbon fiber-reinforced PI resin composites

ABSTRACT This paper examines surface modification of carbon fibers using low-temperature plasma and investigates the temperature-dependent interfacial properties of high-performance polyimide-based composites. Additionally, the mechanisms by which air and argon plasma treatments enhance the high-temperature interfacial properties of carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP) are examined. First, the changes in physical morphology and surface structural defects of carbon fibers under different plasma atmospheres are discussed: carbon fibers develop surface protrusions after various plasma treatments, and a grooved morphology forms after argon plasma treatment. The ID/IG ratio (R value) of the carbon fiber surface increased from 1.25 in untreated fibers to 1.37 after air plasma treatment, and further to 1.60 after argon plasma treatment. The short-beam shear strength test results show that at 300°C, the ILSS (interlaminar shear strength) of argon plasma-treated laminates increased from 67.70 MPa to 87.69 MPa, a 29.53% improvement. The ILSS of air plasma-treated laminates reached 81.46 MPa, a 20.33% improvement. Argon plasma-treated laminates showed more stable interlaminar shear performance at high temperatures, maintaining an interfacial retention rate of 85.11% at 300°C. Secondly, the mechanisms by which air and argon plasma modification enhance the high-temperature interface performance of CFRP are as follows: Air treatment, due to the dual effects of chemical bonding and physical etching, allows the laminated plates to exhibit excellent performance at room temperature. However, in high-temperature environments, the chemical bonding effect is easily affected and damaged, significantly reducing the interface retention rate of the laminated plates. The etching effect of argon treatment is quite significant, which means that the improvement effect of argon mainly manifests in the mechanical interlocking action, with the chemical bonding effect being relatively small. The physical effect of mechanical interlocking is less influenced by temperature, thus the high-temperature retention rate of the laminate is relatively high. Furthermore, molecular dynamics models of the interface were built using atomic simulation to explore how plasma modification introduces active groups that enhance the interface at the molecular level. The impact of these modifications on interfacial structure and energy was analyzed using molecular dynamics metrics. Both experimental and molecular dynamics simulation results confirm that plasma treatment has a positive regulatory effect on the interface.

Enhancing CFRP damping with graphene nanoplatelets: experiments versus finite element analysis.

This study investigates the enhancement of damping properties in carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites by incorporating graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) into the epoxy matrix. Epoxy and CFRP specimens with varying GNP concentrations, were developed and tested through free vibration experiments to measure damping ratios. Additionally, a computational model based on the finite element method (FEM) was developed to simulate the damping behavior of these hybrid nanocomposites. Using periodic representative volume elements (RVEs) under sinusoidal axial loads, the model accurately predicted damping performance by calculating the time lag between applied loads and resulting deformations. Comparison of numerical results with experimental data revealed a strong correlation, confirming the model's effectiveness in capturing the influence of GNP mass fraction on damping enhancement.&#xD.

Polymer Biodegradation in Aquatic Environments: A Machine Learning Model Informed by Meta-Analysis of Structure-Biodegradation Relationships.

Polymers are widely produced and contribute significantly to environmental pollution due to their low recycling rates and persistence in natural environments. Biodegradable polymers, while promising for reducing environmental impact, account for less than 2% of total polymer production. To expand the availability of biodegradable polymers, research has explored structure-biodegradability relationships, yet most studies focus on specific polymers, necessitating further exploration across diverse polymers. This study addresses this gap by curating an extensive aerobic biodegradation data set of 74 polymers and 1779 data points drawn from both published literature and 28 sets of original experiments. We then conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of experimental conditions, polymer structure, and the combined impact of polymer structure and properties on biodegradation. Next, we developed a machine learning model to predict polymer biodegradation in aquatic environments. The model achieved an Rtest2 score of 0.66 using Morgan fingerprints, detailed experimental conditions, and thermal decomposition temperature (Td) as the input descriptors. The model's robustness was supported by a feature importance analysis, revealing that substructure R-O-R in polyethers and polysaccharides positively influenced biodegradation, while molecular weight, Td, substructure -OC(═O)- in polyesters and polyalkylene carbonates, side chains, and aromatic rings negatively impacted it. Additionally, validation against the meta-analysis findings confirmed that predictions for unseen test sets aligned with established empirical biodegradation knowledge. This study not only expands our understanding across diverse polymers but also offers a valuable tool for designing environmentally friendly polymers.

Preparation of Zwitterionic Sulfobetaines and Study of Their Thermal Properties and Nanostructured Self-Assembling Features.

Zwitterionic polymers have garnered significant attention for their distinctive properties, such as biocompatibility, antifouling capabilities, and resistance to protein adsorption, making them promising candidates for a wide range of applications, including drug delivery, oil production inhibitors, and water purification membranes. This study reports the synthesis and characterization of zwitterionic monomers and polymers through the modification of linear, vinyl, and aromatic heterocyclic functional groups via reaction with 1,3-propanesultone. Four zwitterionic polymers with varying molecular structures-ranging from linear to five and six membered ring systems-were synthesized: poly(sulfobetaine methacrylamide) (pSBMAm), poly(sulfobetaine-1-vinylimidazole) (pSB1VI), poly(sulfobetaine-2-vinylpyridine) (pSB2VP), and poly(sulfobetaine-4-vinylpyridine) (pSB4VP). Their molecular weights, thermal behavior, and self-assembly properties were analyzed using gel permeation chromatography (GPC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and zeta potential measurements. The glass transition temperatures (Tg) ranged from 276.52 °C for pSBMAm to 313.69 °C for pSB4VP, while decomposition temperatures exhibited a similar trend, with pSBMAm degrading at 301.03 °C and pSB4VP at 387.14 °C. The polymers' self-assembly behavior was strongly dependent on pH and their surface charge, particularly under varying pH conditions: spherical micelles were observed at neutral pH, while fractal aggregates formed at basic pH. These results demonstrate that precise modifications of the chemical structure, specifically in the linear, imidazole, and pyridine moieties, enable fine control over the thermal properties and self-assembly behavior of polyzwitterions. Such insights are essential for tailoring polymer properties for targeted applications in filtration membranes, drug delivery systems, and solid polymer electrolytes, where thermal stability and self-assembly play crucial roles.

Modified natural polymers as additives in high-temperature drilling fluids: A review.

Drilling fluids are often referred to as the "blood" of the drilling process, as they play a crucial role in determining both the efficiency and safety of drilling operations. Natural polymers, derived from renewable sources, such as cellulose, lignin, chitosan, xanthan gum, and starch, offer inherent advantages such as sustainability, biodegradability, and environmentally-friendliness when used as additives in drilling fluids. However, the inherent properties of natural polymers are adversely affected by thermal degradation due to their low heat resistance under harsh drilling conditions, where temperatures can exceed 150°C. To address these challenges, various modification techniques, including free radical polymerization, esterification, etherification, silanization, hydroxymethylation, and ionic crosslinking, have been employed. This paper provides an overview of recent advances in the application of modified natural polymers as additives in water-based drilling fluids (WBDFs) under high-temperature drilling conditions. It begins by discussing the degradation mechanisms of natural polymers at high temperatures, followed by a review of the techniques used for their modification. Subsequently, the application of modified natural polymers as rheological and fluid loss additives in high-temperature WBDFs is briefly presented. Finally, the challenges, environmental impacts, and future considerations for the use of modified polymers are outlined to guide future development of environmentally friendly, high-performance WBDFs.

Porous polymers: structure, fabrication and application.

The porous polymer is a common and fascinating category within the vast family of porous materials. It offers valuable features such as sufficient raw materials, easy processability, controllable pore structures, and adjustable surface functionality by combining the inherent properties of both porous structures and polymers. These characteristics make it an effective choice for designing functional and advanced materials. In this review, the structural features, processing techniques and application fields of the porous polymer are discussed comprehensively to present their current status and provide a valuable tutorial guide and help for researchers. Firstly, the basic classification and structural features of porous polymers are elaborated upon to provide a comprehensive analysis from a mesoscopic to macroscopic perspective. Secondly, several established techniques for fabricating porous polymers are introduced, including their respective basic principles, characteristics of the resulting pores, and applied scopes. Thirdly, we demonstrate application research of porous polymers in various emerging frontier fields from multiple perspectives, including pressure sensing, thermal control, electromagnetic shielding, acoustic reduction, air purification, water treatment, health management, and so on. Finally, the review explores future directions for porous polymers and evaluates their future challenges and opportunities.

Robust shape memory chlorobutyl rubber/boron nitride polymer nanocomposites for oil-water separation application

BackgroundBoron nitride (h-BN), an excellent 2D material finds exceptional applications in various fields owing to its unique characteristics including excellent hydrophobicity. Incorporation of boron nitride in polymer matrices is a captivating strategy by the scientific community to tune the properties of polymer. Interestingly, the possibilities of incorporating h-BN in chlorobutyl rubber (CIIR) matrix has never been considered and tried till now. Moreover, the use of CIIR to create a clean environment and reduce water pollution is an unexplored area even though the CIIR rubber possess excellent barrier properties. MethodsIn this work, two techniques were used for the fabrication of BNNS/CIIR nanocomposite. We exfoliated h-BN via chemical exfoliation method and tried the reinforcement of CIIR with BNNS via solution intercalation method. Shape memory analysis was performed with the help of stearic acid and oil-water separation analysis was achieved through an easy experimental technique. Significant findingsEnhanced mechanical strength of 11.57 MPa, improved thermal degradation temperature and char yield, higher glass transition temperature of -45.98° were observed for BNNS/CIIR nanocomposite reinforced with higher BNNS loading owing to the uniform distribution and better intercalation of BNNS in CIIR. Excellent shape memory was exhibited by CIIR matrix when reinforced up to 5 g BNNS. In addition, the nanocomposites displayed excellent ability to perform oil-water separation with increase in BNNS loading owing to the good hydrophobic character of h-BN and inherent barrier properties of CIIR. Thus, the study proved successful towards the fabrication of advanced CIIR nanocomposites with excellent shape memory and oil water separation efficiency.

Advanced Fabrication Techniques for Polymer-Metal Nanocomposite Films: State-of-the-Art Innovations in Energy and Electronic Applications

Polymer-metal nanocomposites are a fascinating class of materials that synergize the distinct properties of polymers and metals. Incorporating metal nanofillers into polymer matrices significantly enhances electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and...

Synthesis and Characterization of Novel pH-Responsive Aminated Alginate Derivatives Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering and Drug Delivery.

The aims of this study are to synthesize new derivatives of sodium alginate that improve the inherent properties, such as hydrogel strengthening, and create environmental sensitivity, such as pH sensitivity, for use in drug delivery. Today, hydrogels, due to outstanding properties such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and response to stimuli properties, are widely used as harmless biomaterials in various fields in drug delivery, wound dressing, and tissue engineering. Stimulus-sensitive polymers significantly respond to slight changes in their environment. Different types of stimuli are used to influence the properties of polymers, the most important of which are temperature and pH because these are two vital factors in the human body; hence, temperature-sensitive and pHsensitive hydrogels have been extensively studied. The ability to absorb water and swell the hydrogel is due to hydrophilic chains in the hydrogel network, and water absorption by hydrogel can be controlled by response to the stimuli. Since hydrogels mimic human tissue, the ability to retain water in them is essential. As a result, it is considered in many biomedical drug delivery systems. Stimulusresponsive swelling can control diffusion out of and into the hydrogel network, which allows temporal and spatial control of drug release. When a drug is loaded onto a biodegradable and stimulisensitive hydrogel, the drug delivery system has the added advantage of sustained release of the drug, which reduces side effects. In this study, two different hydrocarbons, [1,3-diaminopropane (DAP)] as a short-chain hydrocarbon, and [1,7-diaminoheptane (DAH)] as a long-chain hydrocarbon were grafted onto three types ofsodium alginate (SA), through amide bond linkages. The hydrogel copolymer matrices were compared with sodium alginate (SA) beads. The graft copolymers were characterized using FTIR, 1HNMR, XRD spectroscopy, elemental analysis (CHNS) and thermal analysis (TGA, DTA and DSC). An environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) was used to investigate the surface morphology of hydrogels. Effects of variables such as the length of hydrocarbon chains cross-linked to alginate, temperature, pH, and cross-linkers on the properties of hydrogels investigated in the temperature range of 2-70 ˚C and two different pH values (4.4 and 7.4). The results showed that when the hydrocarbon chain length of diamines decreases, the extent of cross-linking and strength of the hydrogels are increased. Other results suggest that the hydrogels obtained from high-viscosity alginate derivatives had positive pH sensitivity. Hydrogels prepared in this study demonstrated good mechanical and swelling ratios that are necessary for wound dressing. DAP-g-SA and DAH-g-SA pH-sensitive hydrogels were successfully synthesized through amide bond linkages. The new synthesis derivatives showed lower swelling levels at low pH (4.4). In contrast, their swelling levels at higher pH (7.4) were significantly enhanced. Higher swelling degree could be obtained at high pH. pH-responsive hydrogels are especially useful for various biological applications due to their unique feature of controlled swelling, biodegradability, biocompatibility, and fluid retention in their network structures. pH-responsive hydrogels, as intelligent systems, can be used in controlled-release drug delivery systems such as insulin delivery.

2B-OLEFIN Film Development

As Pelsan Tekstil, in order to bring sustainable solutions to the use of polymers in the world, we have developed the world's first biodegradation technology that can provide full microbial conversion of polyolefins in open environment. This technology can provide full biodegradation on PP & PE materials. The advanced catalytic system converts PP and PE materials into wax. Unlike oxo-degradation, no microplastics or toxic substances are left behind in the post- degradation stage, thanks to a bio-available wax that naturally occurring microorganisms can easily assimilate. According to research, polymer use in the world is over 311 million tons. While the demand for polymers is projected to increase by 5.1% between 2020 and 2030, the recycling rate is only 14%. The non-recyclable portion accumulates as waste in soil and oceans. Biodegradable polymers are biodegraded by various microorganisms and enzymes in nature and broken down into their natural components. Thus, they can be recycled into the natural cycle without leaving microplastics. However, they are considerably more expensive than non- biodegradable polymers. In addition, biodegradable polymers are very vulnerable to heat and are damaged during extrusion. Therefore, our project goal is to make our product biodegradable by using an optimum amount of additives with our standard polyethylene film production formulation without making any changes in the technologies we already use. The biodegradation process is dominated by different factors including polymer properties, the type of organism and the nature of the pretreatment. Polymer properties such as the mobility of the polymer chains, crystallinity, molecular weight, the type of functional groups and substituents present in the structure, the plasticizers or additives present, all play an important role during degradation. The additive has the ability to promote different chemical reactions upon the polymer structure simultaneously. Our individually formulated additive acts as an initial food-source for microbes to help boost the biodegradation in the early stages of decay. The technology is fully compatible with normal mechanical recycling processes. No adverse impact on the mechanical characteristics and optical aspect of recycled products when mixed into the standard recycled supply chain.

A predictive model for electrical conductivity of polymer carbon black nanocomposites

AbstractAlthough many studies have investigated the percolation threshold and conductivity in the polymer carbon black (CB) nanocomposites (PCBs) by experimental data, the modeling in this field is a topic previously overlooked in literature. This paper suggests a simple equation for percolation threshold in PCBs by the surface properties of polymer and CB a well as interphase depth (t). Also, the electrical conductivity of PCBs is simulated by CB radius (R), tunneling distance (λ) and interphase depth. The offered model is validated by experimented findings of numerous samples and parametric examinations. A thicker interphase and a higher interfacial tension positively reduce the percolation onset. The smaller CBs, lower percolation threshold, and smaller tunnels enhance the electrical conductivity of PCBs. The low percolation threshold of 0.01 is obtained by the low R (15 nm) and the thick interphase (35 nm). Also, R = 15 nm and t = 35 nm maximize the PCB conductivity to 6 S/m. These results signify the important roles of CB radius and interphase depth in the percolation threshold and conductivity of PCBs. In addition, network fraction (f) of 0.7 and λ = 1 nm produce the uppermost PCB conductivity of 1.6 S/m, but the system is insulated at CB network fraction less than 0.35 or tunneling distance more than 2 nm. Therefore, high network fraction and low tunneling distance are needed to enhance the conductivity of PCBs.Highlights An equation for percolation onset of PCBs is proposed by CB radius and interphase depth. The offered model is validated by experimented data and parametric examinations. A thicker interphase and a higher interfacial tension positively reduce the percolation onset. Smaller CBs, lower percolation onset, and smaller tunnels enhance the PCB conductivity. CB radius and interphase depth significantly manage the conductivity of PCBs.

Investigation of Some Physical and Mechanical Properties of Basalt Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) Woven Fabrics and Plaster Mesh (PSM) Reinforced Glued Laminated Oak Lumber

In this study, some physical and mechanical properties of the basalt fiber-reinforced polymer (BFRP) woven fabrics (WF) and plaster mesh (PSM) reinforced glued laminated oak lumber were investigated. The BFRPWF and PSM were used in order to increase the mechanical properties of the laminated elements. One-component polyurethane glue (PUR) was used in the production of lumber. The BFRPWF and PSM were tested in three different locations using non-reinforced laminated oak lumber (LOL), reinforced laminated oak lumber with BFRPWF (LOLBFRPWF), and reinforced laminated oak lumber with PSM (LOL-PSM). Tests were performed on the LOL, LOLBFRPWF, and LOL-PSM to investigate their bending strength (MOR), air-dried density (δ12), and modulus of elasticity (MOE). The three-point MOR and MOE in bending tests were applied to the samples. The results showed that the highest value for MOR was found in the laminated wood samples (135.20 N/mm2) that were prepared using the BFRPWF inter-layer. The lowest value of 112.82 N/mm2 was found in the LOL samples. The highest value of modulus elasticity was found in the samples prepared with the BFRPWF inter-layer (16167 N/mm2). The lowest value of 13786 N/mm2 was found in the LOL samples. It was observed that the samples parallel to the glue line of the laminated material showed higher performance compared to those perpendicular to the glue line. The LOL-BFRPWF samples give better results than LOL-PSM and control samples. Accordingly, the LOL-BFRPWF and LOL-PSM samples have the potential to be used as viable options for both furniture and building materials.

Post‐Polymerization Strategy via Dual Site Clicking for Synthesizing Intrinsically Cross‐Linkable Semiconducting Polymers

ABSTRACTCrosslinked organic semiconductors have opened the way for various fabrication techniques in the field of organic electronics owing to their three‐dimensional network structure with high solvent resistivity. However, recent efforts to synthesize cross‐linkable semiconducting polymers have been limited by their low molecular weights and yields. In this study, this limitation is overcome by a novel post‐polymerization strategy. A reagent with a cross‐linkable functional group, (3‐mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane, is attached to a diketopyrrolopyrrole‐based donor–acceptor copolymer (DPPTT) via thioesterification and para‐fluoro‐thiol reaction, modifying two sites simultaneously. This modification preserves the molecular weight and electrical properties of the original polymers. In addition, the use of click chemistry enables high yield (98%) without any purification. The modified DPPTT demonstrated high resistance to organic solvents (80% retention dipped in 1‐chlorobenzene for 1 h). Exploiting this benefit, an ultrathin flexible array of 100 organic field‐effect transistors fabricated using conventional photolithography showed high‐performance reliability. Thus, this study provides a universal strategy to synthesize versatile polymer semiconductors for practical organic electronics. image

Tunable Terpolymer Series for the Systematic Investigation of Membrane Proteins.

Membrane proteins (MPs) are critical to cellular processes and serve as essential therapeutic targets. However, their isolation and characterization are often impeded by traditional detergent-based methods, which can compromise their native states, and retention of their native lipid environment. Amphiphilic polymers have emerged as effective alternatives, enabling the formation of nanoscale discs that preserve MPs' structural and functional integrity. We introduce a novel series of poly(styrene-co-maleic acid-co-(N-benzyl)maleimide) (BzAM) terpolymers with tunable amphiphilicity, synthesized through controlled polymerization. Designed to mimic and improve upon industry-standard poly(styrene-co-maleic acid), these well-defined terpolymers offer enhanced control over molecular weight and distribution, allowing for systematic evaluation of polymer properties and their effect on membrane solubilization. The BzAM series effectively solubilized membranes and demonstrated a direct correlation between polymer hydrophobicity and solubilization efficiency of bacterial ABC transporter, Sav1866. This research highlights the importance of rational polymer design in MP research and provides a foundation for future developments.

Synthesis and Properties of Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Polyferrocenylmethylenes.

The synthesis of differently substituted polyferrocenylmethylenes (PFM) via ring-opening transmetalation polymerization (ROTP) is reported. A number of novel, symmetrically and asymmetrically substituted carba[1]magnesocenophanes have been prepared, which were used as precursors and allowed investigations of the influence of different substitution patterns on the PFM polymer properties. The novel carba[1]magnesocenophanes have been fully characterized by 1H and 13C{1H} NMR spectroscopy, and structurally authenticated by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SC-XRD). The corresponding PFMs were obtained with molecular weights in a range of Mw=1900 g mol-1 up to 15100 g mol-1 and corresponding dispersities of Đ=1.48 to 1.81. All PFMs have been fully characterized by 1H and 13C{1H} NMR spectroscopy, as well as by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight (MALDI-ToF) mass spectrometry. Pyrolysis of spyrocyclic substituted PFM resulted in a ceramic yield above 50 %, while the obtained residue was characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD).

AI-powered breakthroughs in material science and biomedical polymers

This commentary examines how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are transforming biomedical polymers, drug delivery systems, wearable electronics, smart materials, advanced manufacturing, and neuromorphic technologies. AI enhances prediction accuracy, optimizes material properties, accelerates development, and enables innovative applications such as smart biomaterials, personalized medicine, and tissue engineering. Specific applications include predicting polymer properties, optimizing drug release kinetics, improving drug delivery system design, and creating responsive materials for advanced biomedical devices. AI also advances wearable sensors, flexible electronics, 3D/4D printing, sustainable materials, and neuromorphic computing, leading to breakthroughs in health monitoring, human-computer interaction, and environmental sustainability.

Effects of Fluorescent Tracer Additives on PET During Material Recycling

ABSTRACTThe material properties and stable chemical structure of PET make it a frequently used polymer, for example, for packaging applications, and allow multiple recycling processes. Fluorescent tracer additives in polymer waste management may enhance the sorting quality of packaging waste streams by using the fluorescent signal of tracer additives introduced into the polymer matrix. Prior to field application of tracer additives, it is necessary to investigate tracer influence on the polymer matrix in general and, more specifically, in multiple recycling cycles. Therefore, PET with mineral tracer concentrations of 0, 10, 100, and 1000 ppm was extruded up to six times. To investigate changes in material properties, differential scanning calorimetry, intrinsic viscosity, spectroscopic analysis, tensile testing, and color measurements were performed. In parallel, the up‐conversion photoluminescence of the tracer was quantified. Polymer degradation is generally induced by mechanical and thermal degradation during multiple processing cycles, leading to chain shortening, reduction of molecular weight, and the formation of new functional groups, as previously published in the literature. The results of the experiments indicate that tracer additives do not further affect the thermal, rheological, chemical, and optical polymer properties. Moreover, photoluminescent tracer properties are not affected by multiple polymer processing cycles.