Synthesis, characterization and application of high sulfur content polymeric materials from fatty acids

Abstract

A new series of high sulfur content polymers containing various amounts of fatty acids (oleic acid (OA), linoleic acid (LA) and linolenic acid (LnA)) was synthesized via inverse vulcanization method and characterized successfully. In particular, the effect of double bonds and free alkyl chains on polysulfur copolymers has been investigated systematically by using OA with one double bond, LA with two double bonds and LnA with three double bonds. The copolymers with functional carboxylic acid groups are soluble in common organic solvents, processable and electroactive. Also, the usage of the copolymers was tested in the removal of methylene blue and as a cathode material in Li-S battery. Results showed that the polymers can be a potential material for use in dye removal.