Closed‐Loop and Selective Recyclable Fluoro‐Containing Graft Copolymers with Diverse Applications

Abstract

Abstract The intrinsic chemically inert fluoropolymers, constitute a large portion of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), granting them unique properties and prolonged lifetime while also bring substantial environmental concerns. This study develops fluoro‐containing graft copolymer with closed‐loop and selective recyclability of side chains. The poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐chlorotrifluoroethylene) (PVDF‐CTFE) backbone is modified via 4‐vinylbenzyl alcohol (VBOH) units and then grafted by poly (trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) side chains, yielding the graft copolymer with improved ionic conductivity and enhanced mechanical robustness, demonstrating it as a polymer electrolyte for battery application. The selective deconstruction of PTMC side chains from graft copolymer affords the recycled backbone with a high dielectric constant and superior resistance to harsh environments, suitable for capacitor fabrication and anti‐corrosion coating. The reconstructed graft copolymer exhibits comparable electrochemical performance for related applications. Such a strategy not only deals with PFAS‐based polymeric wastes but also diversifies the application scenarios of typical copolymers.