Positioning dynamic polymeric materials within the modern polymer economy: From application to recycling and circularity

Abstract

Innovations in dynamic polymeric materials offer prospects to improve the circularity and lower the environmental impact of the modern polymer economy. These materials are also beginning to blur the distinction between re‐use and recycling methods since the bulk material properties of the material may be rationally changed after applying a stimulus or performing a controlled chemical reaction. In this Perspective, we propose that dynamic polymers denote a unique class of versatile post‐consumer polymer waste, which shares similarities to emergent upcycling approaches while also offering additional opportunities within more classical recycling schemes. A brief overview of stimuli‐responsive polymers is presented where illustrative examples are discussed within the context of developing practical materials. Dynamic covalent polymeric materials are then highlighted, along with emerging techniques such as polymer editing, with a focus on recent reports demonstrating rational manipulation of bulk material properties. Finally, we discuss these examples alongside modern recycling methods and explore how dynamic polymers could perform in this sphere.