Targeted Upcycling of Poly(L-lactide) Based on Stereocomplexation Technology

Abstract

Poly (L-lactide) can cause serious plastic pollution if discarded without proper treatment. However, how to recycle Poly (L-lactide) efficiently and economically is still a major challenge. This work aims to recycle Poly (L-lactide) from waste by selective precipitation using stereocomplex technology. In this strategy, Poly (D-lactide) is specifically and selectively stereocomplexed with Poly (L-lactide) in the mixed system to form a precipitate, and then filtered and recovered to obtain the stereocomplex polylactide with better water and heat resistance, thus achieving upcycling. A recovery rate of 90% by weight of Poly (L-lactide) is achieved. In addition, nanofibrous membranes are prepared by electrospinning to expand their potential application scenarios. This work provides a reference for the efficient and economical up-cycling of Poly (L-lactide) from waste.