Cross-linked polymeric materials are utilized in numerous consumer and industrial coating applications due to their unique chemical and physical properties. However, removal of these materials require environmentally harsh and potentially unsafe chemical treatments to break the covalent bonds within their cross-linked networks. Furthermore, removal of these cross-linked coatings from substrates, such as epoxy-based primers, often result in physical damage to the substrate. This work describes the synthesis, characterization, and properties of several novel stimuli-responsive silyl-containing polyurethane thermosets, and their selective removal from multiple substrates, including polymers. The synthesized polyurethanes display excellent thermal stability, rigidity, and high cross-link density, yet selectively disassemble via multi-directional cascading bond cleavage upon exposure to a fluoride salt stimulus. The rates of removal are shown to depend on the structure of the silyl triols imparting tailored removal. Selective, damage-free removal of the polyurethane can reduce environmental and safety issues and enable a life-extension of a polymeric substrate.

Selective removal and disassembly of cross-linked silyl-polyurethanes

ACS Fall 2020 Virtual Meeting

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