Prof. Martino Di Serio presented a keynote lecture entitled “Green Chemistry for a Circular and Bio-Based Made in Italy: The Case of Isocyanate-Free Polyurethane Synthesis” at the XIV International Symposium on Nano & Supramolecular Chemistry (ISNSC 2025), held from August 31 to September 4 in Santiago (Chile).
Abstract
The transition towards a circular and bio-based economy is crucial for reinforcing the identity and global competitiveness of the ‘Made in Italy’ brand, particularly in sectors such as furniture, fashion, automotive and construction. In this context, chemistry plays a keyenabling role, providing the tools and materials needed to replace toxic, fossil-based
compounds with renewable, safe alternatives. This paper demonstrates how green chemistry can improve the sustainability and resilience of Italian production systems by developing advanced bio-based materials.
The focus of this study is the development of fully renewable, isocyanate-free polyurethane (NIPU) technology based on the synthesis of flexible foams from soybean oil-derived cyclic carbonates (CSBO). These foams were produced by reacting CSBO and bio-based butanediol bis-cyclic carbonate (BCC) with 1,4-butanediamine using S-alkylation with thiols as a self blowing mechanism. Diatomite, a natural mineral filler, was employed as a nucleating agent.
The resulting foams have a remarkable bio-based content, matching the morphology of traditional open-cell polyurethane (PU) foams [1].
Crucially, the foams can be reprocessed into flexible films via thermal compression moulding while maintaining their mechanical integrity, thus enabling material circularity [1].
This research demonstrates how high-performance, recyclable and safe polymers can be produced entirely from renewable materials using green chemistry. This paves the way for
scalable, circular applications that align with the objectives of the EU Green Deal and the restrictions on isocyanates imposed by REACH. This approach provides a compelling model for integrating sustainability into Italian manufacturing processes without compromising on product quality or versatility.
Reference
F. Orabona, F. Recupido, K. Polaczek, G. Cesare Lama, M. Morra, F. Taddeo, M. Di Serio, T. Salmi, L. Verdolotti, V. Russo, Green Chem., 2025,27, 7403-7444
Acknowledgements
This study was carried out within the Made in Italy–Circular and Sustainable Extended Partnership (MICS) and received funding from the European Union Next-Generation EU (Piano Nazionale di Ripresa e Resilienza (PNRR) –missione 4 componente 2, investimento 1.3 –D.D. 1551.11-10-2022,
PE00000004).