2024/11/20 by Xiaojing Liang, Hai Qian
Engineering · Environmental Science · #Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials #Graphene and Nanomaterials Applications #Microplastics and Plastic Pollution
paper · pdf · doi:10.1002/cjoc.202400952
openalex publication_date 2024/11/20 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/31
Abstract The extensive use of plastics, valued for their lightweight, durability, and cost‐effectiveness, has led to severe environmental pollution, with 72% of plastic waste ending up in landfills or natural habitats. Traditional methods for plastic decomposition, including both mechanical and chemical approaches, often face challenges such as incomplete degradation and stability concerns. The innovative concept of mechanical gating presents a promising solution by incorporating mechanophores into polymer structures, enabling controlled degradation. Recent advancements have focused on utilizing mechanophores, such as cyclobutane, as "door locks" to regulate the degradation process. This perspective highlights recent progress in this field, demonstrating the potential of mechanophore‐based strategies for achieving on‐demand polymer degradation. It addresses the limitations of conventional recycling methods and explores how this approach can balance polymer stability with environmental degradability, paving the way for more sustainable plastic management solutions. Early Day Record