Polymers
The latest chemistry news and research on polymers, including polymer synthesis and characterisation and sustainable polymers, from the Royal Society of Chemistry's magazine, Chemistry World
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ResearchSelf-healing polymers emerge from the first use of pnictogen bond crosslinks
Antimony–nitrogen interactions yield materials with enhanced stability and the ability to self-heal in aqueous environments
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ResearchSunlight-driven process upcycles polystyrene waste and elemental sulfur into valuable organic compounds
Products could be used as building blocks for semiconductor materials
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BusinessEU adds hefty anti-dumping duties to 1,4-butanediol
Imports from China, US and Saudi Arabia will see tariffs of 52–143%
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ResearchEmbodying polymer chemistry with a purpose by upcycling plastics and trapping PFAS
For Frank Leibfarth, focussing on reactivity and selectivity helps him bridge the gap between fundamental and applied research
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NewsQuestions over microplastics findings don’t mean we are safe, scientists say
Researchers seek to overcome measurement issues arising from field’s youth, while some criticism has turned into harassment
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BusinessSabic offloads petrochemicals and plastics plants in Europe and Americas
German private equity firms Aequita and Mutares aim to return struggling plants to profitability
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FeatureHow soft electronics are transforming medical devices
Degradable pacemakers and artificial neurons showcase how flexible, tissue-compatible electronics are revolutionising medicine. But translating these materials from lab bench to clinic requires solving complex structure–function relationships
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OpinionPlastic recycling’s perfect storm
Pending policies that demand more recycling cannot offset problems of high costs and competition from cheap virgin polymers
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NewsEPA delivers mixed finding on carcinogenic rubber ingredient
US environmental agency says 1,3-butadiene is harmful for some industry workers, but not for the environment or those living near plants using it
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BusinessPlastic recycling is contracting when it needs to grow
High costs, oversupply of virgin polymers and complex political environment are challenging industry
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OpinionStructure as a strategy
Progress in materials chemistry has often come from changing what things are made of, yet today we understand that how those components are arranged is just as important
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OpinionReprieve for Grangemouth ethylene
UK government agrees £150 million deal to support the country’s last ethylene production plant
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BusinessChemicals industry roundup 2025
Europe hit hard by China’s independence push, but India is growing
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ResearchInsulating window material prevents heat loss while allowing more light through than glass
Easy to make polymer could be used for energy efficient buildings
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ResearchExquisite stereochemical control will allow creation of millions of unique polymers
New method take inspiration from established techniques like those used to synthesise DNA
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OpinionChanging the rules of global chemicals trade
Chemical dumping claims reflect US and China’s focus on national interests ahead of global markets
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BusinessIneos asks EU to intervene over ‘unfair’ chemical imports
Group says 10 key chemicals are being dumped cheaply, harming domestic industry
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ResearchCharge-switching polymer could hold the key to needle-free insulin gel
Animal tests reveal zwitterionic polymer can transport insulin through skin and regulate blood glucose
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Research2D polymer films approach exceptional impermeability of pristine graphene
Spin-coated polyaramids could protect food and solar cells from air
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BusinessSouth African Lawsuit challenges Sasol’s ethylene monopoly
Plastics producer Safripol says high prices mean it can’t compete with imported materials