Chemist Innovates Greener Plastics with Inorganic Elements

Research led by Saurabh Chitnis, a chemistry professor at the University of Victoria (UVic), is paving the way for the development of greener plastics. Chitnis, recently appointed as a Tier II Canada Research Chair in Inorganic Polymers and Materials, is focusing on the underexplored inorganic elements of the periodic table to create innovative materials that could transform everyday products.

Traditionally, chemistry has concentrated on organic elements such as carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen. While these elements are vital to life, the other chemical elements remain largely misunderstood. Chitnis emphasizes the untapped potential of these inorganic elements, stating, “For hundreds of years, chemistry has focused on the organic elements… The other hundred-plus elements remain poorly understood, but offer incredible potential.”

Revolutionizing Material Science

Chitnis’s research aims to incorporate inorganic elements into polymers to develop materials with enhanced properties. Current synthetic materials—including plastics, fabrics, and adhesives—are primarily derived from carbon. This reliance has significant drawbacks: organic polymers often lack thermal stability, are highly flammable, and degrade poorly, contributing to environmental waste.

“We want materials to be flexible so that they can be used across a range of applications. Organic polymers just don’t have that flexibility,” Chitnis explains. His lab is investigating methods to integrate non-carbon molecules into these polymers, ultimately aiming for materials that are more stable, thermally resilient, and environmentally friendly.

One area of Chitnis’s research focuses on replacing carbon with nitrogen in polymer structures. Although nitrogen is typically found as a gas, Chitnis and his team have discovered ways to stabilize nitrogen within polymers, allowing it to serve as a backbone for new materials. This breakthrough could lead to the production of nitrogen-based plastics, which are not only sustainable but also biodegradable, potentially nourishing plants as they break down.

Aiming for a Sustainable Future

The development of nitrogen-based plastics represents a significant step toward achieving net-zero emissions. Nitrogen is abundant, making up approximately 78% of Earth’s atmosphere, and it offers a fossil fuel-free alternative for material production. Chitnis envisions a circular economy where these plastics can decompose naturally and contribute to the environment rather than harm it.

Chitnis’s dedication to fundamental research is evident. He is driven by the excitement of discovery in inorganic chemistry, stating, “When you work in such a new area, it really democratizes science. Anyone can make a big discovery, because not that much is known and there’s so much waiting to be discovered.”

His work also delves into concepts in metal coordination chemistry, seeking to streamline chemical synthesis processes. The research team specializes in phosphorus, nitrogen, and bismuth—elements that hold promise for future technological advancements.

Returning to UVic in July 2025 marks a homecoming for Chitnis, who completed his PhD at the institution in 2015. After postdoctoral fellowships in the UK and Canada, and a professorship at Dalhousie University, he is excited to contribute to the vibrant research community at UVic. “It’s really gratifying to be able to return to UVic… I was always impressed, but now I am even more so,” he remarks.

As Chitnis continues his research, the implications of his work could extend far beyond academic curiosity. By unlocking the potential of inorganic elements, he aims to redefine material science and contribute to a sustainable future.