Catalytic inverse vulcanization


Wu, Xiaofeng ORCID: 0000-0001-5549-8836, Smith, JA, Petcher, S, Zhang, Bowen, Parker, DJ ORCID: 0000-0002-0745-5919 and Hasell, TM ORCID: 0000-0003-4736-0604 (2019) Catalytic inverse vulcanization Nature Communications, 10 (1). 647-. ISSN 2041-1723, 2041-1723

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Abstract

The discovery of inverse vulcanization has allowed stable polymers to be made from elemental sulfur, an unwanted by-product of the petrochemicals industry. However, further development of both the chemistry and applications is handicapped by the restricted choice of cross-linkers and the elevated temperatures required for polymerisation. Here we report the catalysis of inverse vulcanization reactions. This catalytic method is effective for a wide range of crosslinkers reduces the required reaction temperature and reaction time, prevents harmful H2S production, increases yield, improves properties, and allows crosslinkers that would be otherwise unreactive to be used. Thus, inverse vulcanization becomes more widely applicable, efficient, eco-friendly and productive than the previous routes, not only broadening the fundamental chemistry itself, but also opening the door for the industrialization and broad application of these fascinating materials.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: Green chemistry, Homogeneous catalysis, Polymer synthesis
Depositing User: Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited: 07 Feb 2019 16:56
Last Modified: 16 Jun 2026 15:09
DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-08430-8
Open Access URL: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-019-08430-8
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URI: https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3032471
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