Mild and Efficient Degradation of Amine-Cured Epoxy Resins Using Mixed Solvents

Various recycling methods of epoxy resins were proposed, but they most involve harsh reaction conditions. Herein, it was reported on a mild and efficient method for the complete degradation of amine cured epoxy resin, and it explored the potential reuse of the degradation products. Formic acid was used as a swelling agent, and a mixture solution of nitric acid and acetic acid served as an oxidizing agent. The amine cured epoxy resin was completely degraded at 100°C within 40 min, and the degradation yielded oligomers with high molecular weight. The degraded oligomers were used as fillers to make new epoxy materials with fresh epoxy resins. The mechanical properties and the thermal stability are similar to those of the original epoxy resins. This work provides a mild but efficient way to dispose of waste epoxy products under mild conditions.