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Universal Self-Healing Poly(dimethylsiloxane) Polymer Crosslinked Predominantly by Physical Entanglements
Da-Peng Wang1, Zi-Han Zhao1, Cheng-Hui Li1
1State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing National Laboratory of Microstructures, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China.
This study introduces a novel poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) polymer that autonomously self-heals under harsh conditions. Its unique physical entanglement crosslinking enables stability in solvents, extreme temperatures, and chemical environments for advanced applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Self-healing polymers are crucial for long-term material durability.
- Existing self-healing materials often fail under harsh conditions due to vulnerable dynamic crosslinking sites.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a universal self-healing polymer stable under diverse harsh conditions.
- To create self-healing electronic skin sensors with enhanced conductivity and stability.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) crosslinked primarily through physical entanglements.
- Tested self-healing capabilities in ambient conditions, aqueous solutions, organic solvents, strong acids/alkalis, redox agents, and freezing temperatures.
- Integrated the PDMS polymer with eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn) alloy for electronic skin sensor fabrication.
Main Results:
- The PDMS polymer demonstrated autonomous self-healing across a wide range of harsh environments.
- The physical entanglement junctions proved invulnerable, ensuring material stability.
- The resulting electronic skin sensors exhibited excellent electrical conductivity, long-term sensing stability, and universal self-healing.
Conclusions:
- Physical entanglement is a robust strategy for creating universally self-healing polymers.
- This PDMS-based material offers a promising platform for durable, self-healing electronic devices.
