Ionogels are emerging as promising electronics due to
their exceptional
ionic conductivity, stretchability, and high thermal stability. However,
developing ionogels with enhanced mechanical properties without compromising
conductivity and ion transport rates remains a significant challenge.
Here, we report a zwitterionic cross-linker, 4-(2-(((2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl)carbamoyl)oxy)ethyl)-4,14-dimethyl-8,13-dioxo-7,12-dioxa-4,9-diazapentadec-14-en-4-ium-1-propanesulfonate
(MEPS) and utilized it to cross-link a variety of functional monomers,
leading to the synthesis of conductive ionogels that exhibit both
high mechanical strength and versatile applicability. Due to its abundant
hydrogen bond donors/acceptors and zwitterionic moiety, MEPS exhibits
several hundred times higher solubility in ionic liquids compared
to conventional cross-linkers. As a proof-of-concept, the poly(acrylic
acid-MEPS) ionogels demonstrate enhanced elongation, fracture toughness,
and superior thermal stability, all while maintaining high conductivity
due to the high affinity between ionic liquids and zwitterionic networks.
Furthermore, MEPS-cross-linked poly(α-thioctic acid) electronics
can be engineered as strain sensors, showing exceptional antifatigue
properties and recyclability, remaining stable and functional over
300 consecutive cycles. This universal cross-linking strategy not
only improves the overall performance of ionogels but also contributes
to the development of next-generation soft electronics with enhanced
functionality and durability.