Polymer Recycling and Upcycling: Toward a Circular Materials Economy
A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Circular and Green Sustainable Polymer Science".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 January 2026 | Viewed by 5
Special Issue Editor
Interests: recycling; textile; plastics; biopolymer; waste valorization
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
The global increase in plastic consumption has resulted in an urgent need for sustainable solutions to address the accumulation of polymer waste. Conventional linear production models—which are predicated on the take–make–use–dispose paradigm—have become untenable. Consequently, the objective of this Special Issue is to shed light on the most recent advancements in polymer recycling and upcycling, which are instrumental in facilitating a circular materials economy.
The Special Issue invites original research articles, reviews, and short communications that focus on innovative strategies for mechanical, chemical, and biological recycling of polymers. In addition, submissions may address the design of recyclable polymer systems, catalytic depolymerisation processes, and valorisation of post-consumer or industrial plastic waste. Submissions are particularly encouraged for contributions that explore innovative upcycling methods. These methods are defined as the conversion of waste polymers into materials and products of higher value. Furthermore, studies that address technological, economic, life cycle, or policy perspectives related to circular polymer systems are encouraged to promote a holistic comprehension of sustainable material loops.
This Special Issue will serve as a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue among polymer scientists, chemical engineers, environmental researchers, and policymakers working toward a more sustainable future.
Dr. Anastasia Anceschi
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.
Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Polymers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.
Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.
Keywords
- polymer waste
- recycling and upcycling
- plastics
- sustainable materials
- waste valorization
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