Stimuli-cleavable moiety enabled vinyl polymer degradation and emerging applications

Abstract

Vinyl polymers have become ubiquitous products in our modern world, thanks to their exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to chemicals, all of which result from their highly stable all-carbon polymer backbone. However, this very stability raises concerns regarding their long-term persistence and environmental impact. To address this, researchers have explored the incorporation of stimuli-cleavable bonds as a potential solution. This approach allows vinyl polymers to retain their beneficial properties under normal conditions while readily degrading when exposed to specific stimuli, such as mechanical forces, light, redox reactions, pH changes, temperature shifts, and enzymatic activity. The chemical structures and mechanisms enabling stimuli responsiveness are discussed in this review. Beyond their environmental and recycling applications, stimuli-responsive degradable vinyl polymers have found diverse uses in fields like drug delivery systems, functional materials, and surface modification. This review also explores the latest advancements and novel applications for such polymers. Finally, the review discusses future research directions and design considerations to develop application-driven stimuli-cleavable vinyl polymers, aiming to unlock their full potential in addressing environmental concerns and fostering innovation across various industries.