Abstract: A method of spontaneously patterning a polymer during frontal polymerization includes activating an initiation region of a monomer solution to reaction to initiate a polymerization reaction. A polymerization front is generated and propagates through the monomer solution in a radial or longitudinal direction away from the initiation region. The monomer solution is spontaneously heated downstream of the polymerization front by thermal transport away from the polymerization reaction. Once a localized region of the monomer solution reaches a temperature sufficient for spontaneous initiation of another polymerization reaction, a new polymerization front is generated and propagates through the monomer solution in a circumferential or transverse direction.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a composition of matter comprising purified cyclic poly(phthalaldehyde) (cPPA) and a plasticizer. The composition enables thermal processing and molding in bulk quantities, and is designed to degrade when contacted by an acid or exposed to a high enough temperature. Photodegradable cPPA containing a photooxidant is disclosed. Methods of making and recycling the composition of matter are also provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a composition of matter comprising purified cyclic poly(phthalaldehyde) (cPPA) and a plasticizer. The composition enables thermal processing and molding in bulk quantities, and is designed to degrade when contacted by an acid or exposed to a high enough temperature. Photodegradable cPPA containing a photooxidant is disclosed. Methods of making and recycling the composition of matter are also provided.