March 3, 2026Open Access

Ultrasound-Assisted Degradation of Stimuli-Sensitive Polymers which Generate Bubbles using TiO2 and Photoacid Generators: Properties and Reaction Mechanism

Key Points

Decomposition of polymers generates volatile compounds like isobutene, improving sustainability.
The presence of titanium oxide and photoacid generators enhances degradation efficiency through ultrasound.
Assessment using ultrasound-irradiation and heating demonstrates effective polymer breakdown mechanisms.
This approach supports easier recycling of composite materials, highlighting its potential environmental benefits.

Abstract

Poly(tert-butyl methacrylate) (PtBMA) and poly(1-methyl-1-(6-methyl-7-oxabicyclo4.1.0hept-3-yl)ethyl methacrylate) (PMOBH), a type of degradable polymers, which generate gaseous or volatile compounds, such as isobutene and limonene, were decomposed after ultrasound-irradiation and subsequent heating in the presence of titanium oxide (TiO2) and a photoacid generator (PAG). The decomposition behaviors of PtBMA or PMOBH containing TiO2 and PAG were investigated and discussed in terms of the chemical structures of the polymers and reaction mechanism. We believe that the degradation contributes to reduce environmental impact such as the easy recycling of composite materials.

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