Enabling Applications of Covalent Adaptable Networks.

Area of Science:

• Polymer Science
• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Thermoset and thermoplastic polymers exhibit distinct behaviors, with thermosets being rigid and thermoplastics flowable.
• Covalent adaptable networks (CANs) bridge this gap, possessing permanent crosslinks like thermosets but exhibiting thermoplastic-like flow under specific conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the material properties of CANs.
• To highlight the applications of CANs in various fields.
• To emphasize the control over viscoelastic properties offered by CANs.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes existing research on CANs.
• It analyzes the relationship between dynamic reaction kinetics and rheological behavior.
• It examines the influence of stimuli (temperature, light, chemical) on CAN properties.

Main Results:

• CANs exhibit tunable viscoelastic properties controlled by dynamic chemical reactions.
• The flow behavior of CANs is stimulus-responsive, allowing for unprecedented control.
• CANs offer improved mechanical properties and processing capabilities.

Conclusions:

• CANs represent a versatile class of materials with significant potential.
• Their unique properties enable advancements in composites, hydrogels, and shape-memory polymers.
• The CAN concept provides a powerful tool for designing next-generation polymeric materials.