Ionic Compatibilization of Polymers
Glenn H. Fredrickson, Shuyi Xie, Jerrick Edmund, My Linh Le, Dan Sun, Douglas J. Grzetic, Daniel L. Vigil, Kris T. Delaney, Michael L. Chabinyc, Rachel A. Segalman
Abstract
formation of block or graft copolymers during blending operations. Typically, such reactive blending exploits reversible or irreversible covalent or hydrogen bonds to produce the desired copolymer, but there are other options. Here, we argue that ionic bonds and electrostatic correlations represent an underutilized tool for polymer compatibilization and in tailoring materials for applications ranging from sustainable polymer alloys to organic electronics and solid polymer electrolytes. The theoretical basis for ionic compatibilization is surveyed and placed in the context of existing experimental literature and emerging classes of functional polymer materials. We conclude with a perspective on how electrostatic interactions might be exploited in plastic waste upcycling.