This research addresses plastic waste by rethinking polyethylene recycling. Instead of breaking polymers down, it explores chemical upcycling—adding functional groups to create higher-value materials. By transforming waste into useful products, this approach aims to enable a circular plastics economy, reduce pollution, and provide sustainable alternatives to current inefficient recycling methods.

Over 11 million U.S. homes rely on toxic lead pipes. Bioderived polyethylene offers a safer replacement, but long-term durability must be ensured. This research studies how chlorine degrades pipe materials and how molecular branching improves resilience. Accelerated aging tests link polymer structure to performance, guiding design of longer-lasting, reliable water infrastructure.