The study utilizes mechanically interlocked carbon nanotubes (MINTs) to improve the strength of the polymer without compromising its recyclability.

The reinforced plastic retains its mechanical properties even after being melted and recycled up to four times, showcasing its durability.

A research group at IMDEA Nanociencia, led by Emilio Pérez, is pioneering a method to strengthen recyclable plastics in collaboration with the Danish company Nanocore ApS.

This collaboration, which began in 2017 and secured a significant contract in 2020, focuses on applying carbon nanotube technology for plastic reinforcement.

Researchers have developed a technique to integrate carbon nanotubes into polymers using mechanical bonds, which preserves the nanotubes' properties and enhances the composite's performance.

These nanotubes are surrounded by ring molecules that facilitate strong mechanical bonds while preventing agglomeration, thus maximizing load transfer within the polymer matrix.

Adding just 1% of these nanotubes by weight can significantly enhance the plastic's Young's modulus by 77% and tensile strength by 100%, while maintaining properties after multiple recycling processes.

The overarching goal of this research is to produce recyclable plastics that possess strength comparable to carbon fibers, marking a significant advancement towards sustainability.

This innovation is expected to lead to lighter and more efficient structures in industries such as automotive and aerospace, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Pérez emphasizes that lighter structures, like vehicles, could result in substantial fuel savings and promote a more sustainable manufacturing approach.

The research confirms that efficient mechanical stress transfer at the nanoscale is crucial for achieving the desired material properties, demonstrating the advantages of nanotubes over traditional materials.

Emilio Pérez's research journey began in 2012 when he received a €1.5 million ERC grant to explore the bonding of molecular rings to carbon nanotubes, laying the groundwork for this innovative study.