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With the growing demand for sustainable materials, bio-based plastics are gaining popularity for their renewable properties. This review critically analyzes the recent advancements in poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PEF) research, a promising bio-based plastic with superior gas barrier properties compared to traditional poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET). Key challenges in synthesizing 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), the monomer for PEF, are highlighted, particularly the difficulty in achieving high yield and purity, which limits large-scale production. The review also evaluates the thermo-mechanical properties of PEF, showing its potential for use in demanding engineering applications. Furthermore, the crystallization behavior of PEF is explored in detail, revealing how different processing conditions and nucleating agents significantly affect the material's properties. Notably, PEF exhibits excellent crystallization control, which can be leveraged to enhance its overall performance. Lastly, the review addresses PEF’s sustainability, focusing on its potential for chemical recycling via methods like hydrolysis and alcoholysis, as well as its biodegradability. The findings suggest that PEF could serve as a viable alternative to PET in environmentally conscious applications. • Synthesis of 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) faces yield and purity challenges. • PEF outperforms PET in gas barrier properties, ideal for packaging applications. • Crystallization conditions and nucleating agents affect PEF's properties significantly. • PEF exhibits excellent thermo-mechanical properties, superior to PET in many conditions. • PEF can be chemically recycled and is biodegradable, supporting sustainable use.
Su et al. (2024) studied this question.