Vitrimers are an exciting new class of materials based on associative dynamic covalent bonds that bridge the gap between recyclable thermoplastics and non-recyclable thermosets. Vitrimers can be reprocessed through topology reconfiguration at elevated temperatures while maintaining a constant crosslink density. Resins derived from melamine (1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine) are common thermosets in demanding applications due to thermal and flame resistance, but recycling is underexplored. In this talk, I will discuss methods to improve the sustainability of melamine-based materials by incorporating reversible crosslinks into the networks. Current industrial processes frequently utilize formaldehyde as a crosslinker, which reacts with melamine to form a methylolated intermediate. The resulting hydroxyl groups have been identified as promising functional handles for incorporating dynamic covalent bonds. These dynamic bonds must enable reprocessability while maintaining the favorable properties of melamine resins.

Leveraging triazine reactivity for reprocessable melamine-like resins

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.