Led by Sabyasachi Gaan, researchers at Emergency Management Planning and Assistance (EMPA) Advanced Fibers laboratory developed a fully recyclable, repairable, flame-retardant epoxy resin-based plastic that also retains thermomechanical properties of epoxy resins. 
 
EMPA reports potential applications to include coatings for wooden flooring, to composites from aircrafts, ships, railways, cars, and wind turbines. According to EMPA, the epoxies are versatile, tough polymers that have excellent thermal and mechanical properties while being lighter than metal. 
 
In collaboration with national and international partners, EMPA developed a thermoset that is unlike other thermosets due to its ability to be reshaped. EMPA’s epoxy resin combines the technology of thermosets and thermoplastics like PET or polyolefins. Starting with a thermoset researchers added a phosphonate esters class special function molecule to the resin mix. 
 
The bond developed forms with the polymer chains of the epoxy resin which is reportedly dynamic and can be broken under certain conditions, loosening the polymer chains so they can be melted and reshaped. The recovery of phosphorus and other valuable elements connected to the matrix polymer would also be possible. 
 
“We didn’t develop a single material for a specific purpose, but rather a toolbox. Flame retardancy, recyclability and repairability are a given. We can optimize all other properties depending on the intended use,” said Gann. 
 
The material is also referred as vitrimers which have gained promise over the past ten years. 
 
The report states that when used as a resistant, transparent layer on floors, scratches and dents can be “healed” with a little heat and pressure.
 
Results have been published in the Chemical Engineering Journal. Additionally, to pursue other applications of the material researchers are looking for industrial partners. With all its other advantages, this modified epoxy polymer is reportedly inexpensive and simple to manufacture.