Recent Advances and Applications of Sustainable and Recyclable Polymers
Farimah Kamran, Hana Afshar, Farangis Shahi
Abstract
ABSTRACT The increasing demand for sustainable and recyclable polymer materials has driven significant research efforts to address environmental concerns associated with conventional plastics. This review explores recent advancements in the development, fabrication, and applications of sustainable and recyclable polymers, with a focus on their role in promoting a circular economy. Key strategies for enhancing polymer recyclability and biodegradability, including bio‐based feedstocks, advanced chemical and mechanical recycling techniques, and novel polymer design approaches, are discussed. The review further highlights the integration of these materials into emerging technologies, including 3D printing, flexible electronics, solar‐driven interfacial evaporation, friction electric nanogenerators, and multifunctional membranes. In each of these fields, innovative polymeric solutions contribute to resource efficiency, reduced waste, and enhanced material performance. Additionally, this review addresses current challenges, such as cost barriers, recycling infrastructure limitations, and material property trade‐offs, while presenting future perspectives on sustainable polymer research. By integrating insights from recent studies, this work provides a roadmap for the continued advancement of sustainable polymer materials, fostering innovation in materials science and promoting global sustainability efforts.