Recyclable Thermoset Polymers From Lignin Derived Phenols

Abstract

Spero Renewables has successfully developed bio-based thermoset polymers that can be decomposed and recycled under mild conditions while maintaining physical properties comparable to traditional BPA-based thermosets. Key accomplishments include the optimization of thermoset synthesis with over 50% bio-based content, the establishment of recycling conditions for both thermosets and carbon fiber-reinforced composites, and the demonstration of CFRC recyclability. The project also included a techno-economic analysis (TEA), which revealed significant cost reductions through carbon fiber recycling, and a lifecycle analysis (LCA), which showed that Spero's bio-based CFRCs could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 74% compared to conventional fossil-based CFRCs. This work positions Spero Renewables at the forefront of sustainable thermoset and composite material technologies.