A Perspective on PEF Synthesis, Properties, and End-Life

This critical appraisal takes account of the extensive research and development dedicated, in the last years, to a single polymer, the poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate), usually simply referred as PEF. PEF importance stems from the fact that it is based on renewable resources, typically prepared from C6 sugars present in biomass feedstocks, for its resemblance to the high-performance poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and in terms of barrier properties even outperforming PET. For the first time synthesis, properties and end-life targeting a more sustainable PEF are critically reviewed. The emphasis is placed on how synthetic roots to PEF evolved towards the development of greener processes based on ring open polymerisation, enzymatic synthesis or de use of ionic liquids; together with a broader perspective on PEF end-life highlighting recycling and (bio)degradation solutions.