Towards sustainable polymeric materials: zero waste, green and self-healing

Abstract

Although polymeric materials are widely adopted in various applications, the sustainability of the materials is often controversial, particularly on the current handling of polymeric wastes and the use of non-renewable resources as raw materials. A brief review is hence given to outline recent efforts that promote sustainable value of the materials. The discussion starts with the recycling activities of polymeric wastes. Next, the concept of ecofriendly composites, which include bio-based and biodegradable, is discussed. Then, a note on inclusion of self-healing functionality in polymeric composite that is seen as another promising methodology in meriting the sustainability of polymeric materials is offered. Furthermore, the feasibility and possible improvement of the aforementioned methodologies (i.e. zero waste and green concept) are highlighted and discussed. In conclusion, more research works on the individual or combination of the improved methodologies and a concise evaluator are needed to extend further the sustainable potential of polymeric materials.