Frontal polymerization-triggered simultaneous ring-opening metathesis polymerization and cross metathesis affords anisotropic macroporous dicyclopentadiene cellulose nanocrystal foam

Abstract

Multifunctionality and effectiveness of macroporous solid foams in extreme environments have captivated the attention of both academia and industries. The most recent rapid, energy-efficient strategy to manufacture solid foams with directionality is the frontal polymerization (FP) of dicyclopentadiene (DCPD). However, there still remains the need for a time efficient one-pot approach to induce anisotropic macroporosity in DCPD foams. Here we show a rapid production of cellular solids by frontally polymerizing a mixture of DCPD monomer and allyl-functionalized cellulose nanocrystals (ACs). Our results demonstrate a clear correlation between increasing % allylation and AC wt%, and the formed pore architectures. Especially, we show enhanced front velocity (vf) and reduced reaction initiation time (tinit) by introducing an optimal amount of 2 wt% AC. Conclusively, the small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS, WAXS) analyses reveal that the incorporation of 2 wt% AC affects the crystal structure of FP-mediated DCPD/AC foams and enhances their oxidation resistance.

Facile Utilization of Renewable Resources Containing Cyclobutene Mechanophores: Preparation and Properties of High-Toughness Materials with One-Step Cross-Linking by Frontal Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization

“…Here, to take advantage of the structure of caryophyllene and expand its application in sustainable polymer materials, we propose a one-step cross-linking strategy using frontal ring-opening metathesis polymerization (FROMP) to prepare cross-linked polycaryophyllene, which utilizes the self-cross-linking characteristics of dicyclopentadiene (DCPD), − and also maintains the cyclobutane ring of caryophyllene, as depicted in Figure . The copolymerization can be completed in 2 min, which changes the polymerization kinetics of caryophyllene, shortening the time and reducing energy consumption.…”

Infrared initiation of frontal polymerization with density gradient multi-layered resins for tunable colored layers via photothermal effect

“…This method offers several advantages over traditional polymerization methods, including faster reaction rates, lower energy consumption, and easier process control. Consequently, FP has attracted considerable interest as a promising method for producing high-performance polymer composites, coatings, and adhesives [2].…”

“…The frontal polymerization (FP) technique involves the propagation of a self-sustaining reaction wave, which is powered by heat and chemical reaction [1][2][3][4][5]. This method offers several advantages over traditional polymerization methods, including faster reaction rates, lower energy consumption, and easier process control.…”

“…Upon using DCPD and TBP in FP, the resulting cross-linked polymer networks have been found to exhibit suitable mechanical properties, such as high tensile strength and elastic modulus [11], and excellent thermal stability, with a glass transition temperature of up to 219 °C, which could be useful for coating material [12]. Additionally, researchers demonstrated that the cross-linking density of poly(DCPD) networks could be controlled by varying the concentration of TBP, which allowed for the ne-tuning of the thermal and mechanical properties of the resulting polymers [2,13].…”