Development of New Routes to Benign Polymeric Materials

William G. Dauben Lecture

Society depends on polymeric materials now more than at any other time in history. Although synthetic polymers are indispensable in a wide array of applications, ranging from commodity packaging and structural materials to technologically complex biomedical and electronic devices, the negative impact of their synthesis and disposal pose important environmental challenges. This lecture will highlight our research to develop: 1) mechanically recyclable polymers; 2) chemically recyclable polymers; and 3) sustainable routes to biodegradable plastics.

Speaker: Geoffrey Coates, Cornell University