Cross-linked polymeric materials are utilized in numerous consumer and industrial applications due to their unique chemical and physical properties.  However, these materials require harsh chemical treatments in order to break their cross-linked networks, leading to environmental and safety issues.  This work describes the first silyl-containing polyurethane thermosets, formed from aliphatic isocyanates and synthesized silyl-diols and silyl-triols with different electrophilicity and chain lengths to control disassembly rates.  The synthesized thermosets displayed high thermal stability, rigidity, and high cross-link density, yet have the ability to disassemble via cascading bond cleavage in multiple directions upon exposure to a fluoride ion to release small molecules.  The release of small molecules helps degrade the material by opening up pores and breaking down more of the polymer backbone.  Unlike previously reported degradable cross-linked materials, the silyl-containing thermosets were resistant to disassembly with strong acid and base, displaying their selectivity and robustness.  This technology has numerous potential applications, such as in the selective removal of coatings from organic composites.<br/>

Triggered disassembly of cross-linked polyurethanes through cascading bond cleavage

2019 Spring National Meeting

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