Manipulating Inverse Vulcanization Comonomers to Generate High-Tensile-Strain Polymers

The buildup of waste sulfur poses issues of storage and usage that may be prevented by the development of high-sulfur-content functional materials. Inverse vulcanization allows for the generation of such materials with varying properties and applications. Previous research has largely considered alkene-based monomers, although research into alkyl monomers may enlighten this complex process. Revisiting old monomers is therefore prudent to assist in this investigation. Exerting reaction control over how the alkenes in beta-myrcene react with sulfur allows for the preparation of different polymeric products. These products-linear, branched, and cross-linked-demonstrate different properties including a tensile strain of 1878%.