Porous Organic Polymers in Environmental and Biomedical Applications: Toxicological Concerns and Sustainable Perspective
Varsha Rawat *
Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Research, SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Porous organic polymers (POPs) have gained significant attention as advanced functional materials due to their high surface area, tunable porosity, and remarkable chemical stability. These properties enable their extensive application in adsorption, catalysis, gas storage, environmental remediation, and emerging biomedical fields such as drug delivery and bioimaging. Despite their technological advantages, concerns regarding their environmental persistence, degradation behaviour, and potential toxicological impacts remain insufficiently explored. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the structural characteristics, synthesis strategies, and multifunctional applications of POPs, with a particular focus on their environmental and health-related implications. The degradation mechanisms of POPs, including hydrolytic, oxidative, and photolytic pathways, are critically discussed in relation to the formation of toxic byproducts and their ecological consequences, such as bioaccumulation and long-term exposure risks. Furthermore, the role of functionalization and structural diversity in influencing toxicity profiles is highlighted. Sustainable approaches, including green synthesis methods, biodegradable polymer frameworks, and recyclable systems, are emphasised as key strategies to reduce environmental burden. Also, the need for robust regulatory frameworks and standardised toxicity assessment models is addressed. This chapter aims to provide a balanced perspective to support the safe and sustainable development of POP-based technologies.
Keywords: Porous organic polymers, environmental remediation, toxicological concerns, sustainable synthesis, biomedical applications