Single-walled carbon nanotubes supplemented with a ring molecule with two amine groups have significantly improved the mechanical properties of plastic. The created material can be recycled four times while maintaining its properties. There are two types of plastics: thermoplastics, which can melt and mold, and thermosetting plastics, which do not melt at high temperatures due to the strong chemical bonds between the polymer chains.
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Thermosetting plastics withstand shocks and mechanical loads well, their weak point is fragility. Carbon fibers can be used for reinforcement. This solution makes it possible to produce durable but non-recyclable helmets and sports equipment. A scientific group led by Emilio Pérez is studying strategies to improve the mechanical properties of recyclable plastics. The main interest of the researchers is the “covalent adaptable network“, a plastic with a thermosetting-like structure and the ability, if desired, to break the bonds between polymer chains using water or temperature.
