Inverse Vulcanization Through Epoxide Chemistry: A Low Temperature Non-Olefin Route to Sulfur-Rich Polymer Networks

Yang, Pan, Wang, Youfu, Zhu, Xinyuan, Jia, Jinhong, Wu, Xiaofeng ORCID: 0000-0001-5549-8836 and Hasell, Tom ORCID: 0000-0003-4736-0604 (2026) Inverse Vulcanization Through Epoxide Chemistry: A Low Temperature Non-Olefin Route to Sulfur-Rich Polymer Networks ANGEWANDTE CHEMIE-INTERNATIONAL EDITION, 65 (33). e7470442-. ISSN 1433-7851, 1521-3773

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Abstract

Inverse vulcanization represents an effective strategy for transforming surplus elemental sulfur into value-added polymeric materials; however, current approaches are largely restricted to olefin-based monomers and rely on high-temperature radical processes. Here, we establish an epoxide-enabled inverse vulcanization platform that expands sulfur-rich polymer formation beyond olefin chemistry under solvent-free, base-catalyzed conditions. Mechanistic studies confirm a nucleophilic ring-opening pathway in which sulfur is incorporated into the polymer backbone when catalyzed by base catalyst. By integrating bio-based epoxidized vegetable oils with elemental sulfur, sulfur-rich networks are constructed through a catalytically tunable ring-opening pathway, enabling controllable network formation. The resulting materials maintain high sulfur content while exhibiting tunable mechanical properties, shape memory behavior, and strong adhesion on stainless steel, with lap shear strengths adjustable up to 10 MPa. The combination of mild processing conditions, renewable monomer feedstocks, and robust structural performance demonstrates a controllable and energy-efficient route for advancing inverse vulcanization toward sustainable adhesive and functional material applications.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	epoxide chemistry, inverse vulcanization, recyclable, sulfur polymer, sustainable materials
Divisions:	Faculty of Science & Engineering Faculty of Science & Engineering > School of Physical Sciences Faculty of Science & Engineering > School of Physical Sciences > Chemistry
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	24 Jun 2026 15:09
Last Modified:	13 Aug 2026 07:10
DOI:	10.1002/anie.7470442
Related Websites:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3199139
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