Novel Elastomeric Polystyrene via Photopolymerization and Post-Functionalization of Durable Ultra-High Molecular Weight Perfluorostyrene Copolymers
Nathan Wei developed a more sustainable way to create strong and durable plastic polymers that are also recyclable. He believes this approach should also work with biologically based raw materials, which would make the process even more sustainable.
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Nathan Wei, 17, of Gainesville, synthesized an ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) plastic for his Regeneron Science Talent Search chemistry project. UHMW polymers have the advantage of enhanced strength and durability but are more difficult to produce. However, Nathan demonstrated that a UHMW polymer could be created under blue light with much lower energy requirements by incorporating pentafluorostyrene into the polymer.
In addition, by modifying the polymer with dodecanethiol, Nathan produced a version of the polymer that has strong material properties and should also be recyclable. This development could help reduce plastic waste.
Nathan believes that his approach should also work with renewable biologically based raw materials, which would make the process even more sustainable.
The son of David Wei and Sarah Liu, Nathan is the chapter president of the Future Business Leaders of America and a member of the math and science teams at Buchholz High School. Nathan also volunteers as a museum docent at the Florida Museum of Natural History and as a teacher at a pre-algebra summer camp, and is president of the student association at the Huagen Chinese School.
Beyond the Project
Nathan takes part in a live chemistry demonstration program at his local mall. A presentation he’s created talks about climate change, using a pH indicator to show how the carbon dioxide we exhale turns acidic in water.
FUN FACTS: As a docent at the Florida Museum of Natural History, Nathan enjoys guiding visitors through exhibits about fossils, Florida wildlife, and more.
