Reversible Change in Performances of Polymer Networks via Invertible Architecture–Transformation of Cross-Links

Abstract

A polymer nanoparticle network using single-chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) as cross-links is designed. The experimental and theoretical study shows that incorporating SCNPs in polymer networks leads to smaller mesh size, faster terminal relaxation time, and reduced fluctuation among cross-links, resulting in a significant increase in shear storage modulus, and enhancement in tensile stress. Notably, the reversible single-chain collapse of SCNPs under thermal stimulation enables the polymer network to undergo coherent changes between two topological states, thereby exhibiting reversible transformations between soft and stiff states. This approach and finding can effectively tailor the mechanical properties of polymer networks, potentially leading to the development of intelligent, responsive materials.

Stimuli-Responsive Polymer Networks: Application, Design, and Computational Exploration

“…When thinking of stimuli-responsive behaviors in any material system, temperature is certainly one of the most commonly studied and encountered in literature . Temperature is used as a stimulus in responsive networks in a variety of applications, for instance, temperature sensing, ,, liquid absorbance, − polymer electrolytes, , soft robotics, ,− biomedical applications, − , and others. − A multitude of properties can be found in these materials that make them suitable for these various applications. Temperature is often used to impart or impact these properties, such as self-healing, degradability, swellability, anisotropy, muscle-like movements, and shape memory and programmability.…”

“…For soft robotics applications, which can overlap with biomedical applications in the form of artificial muscles, the primary objective is to actuate motion. Additionally, the enhancements of generally desirable material properties are constantly being pursued. ,− Temperature is also a critical stimulus in these applications, due to its capability of controlling the actuation of muscle-like movements and contractions. Hydrogels with bilayered structures represent a useful strategy for obtaining actuated motions under stimulus, utilizing temperature-driven changes in water miscibility as mentioned above .…”

Study on Temperature-Controlled Branching Behavior with Self-Condensing Atom Transfer Radical Copolymerization of Latent Inimer and Styrene

“…The furan-maleimide (Fur-Mal) DA linkage was appealing for our purposes among the numerous available diene/dienophile combinations due to its efficient thermal reversibility. At ambient-to-moderate temperatures, most Fur-Mal functionalities can be effectively joined, while the reverse reaction is favored at higher temperatures . Drawing inspiration from this approach, here we have devised a straightforward “one-pot” synthesis method for HBPs using SCVP and DA chemistry.…”

“…At ambient-to-moderate temperatures, most Fur-Mal functionalities can be effectively joined, while the reverse reaction is favored at higher temperatures. 36 Drawing inspiration from this approach, here we have devised a straightforward "one-pot" synthesis method for HBPs using SCVP and DA chemistry.…”