Adhering Low Surface Energy Materials without Surface Pretreatment via Ion-Dipole Interactions

Low surface energy materials resist adhesion due to their chemical inertness and non-wetting properties. Herein, we report the creation of a transparent ionogel adhesive that uses ion-dipole interactions to achieve a higher bonding performance to polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) relative to most commercial glues. The ionogel adhesive is composed of a poly(hexafluorobutyl acrylate-co-methyl methacrylate) random copolymer and a hydrophobic ionic liquid. The prepared ionogel can adhere to various hydrophobic substrates, such as PTFE, polypropylene, and polyethylene, as well as hydrophilic glass, ceramics, and steel. The design strategy and adhesion behavior are well interpreted using the density functional theory calculations and molecular dynamics simulations. The straightforward ultraviolet-curing method, high optical clarity, versatile adhesion ability, and reversible adhesion capabilities make this high-performance adhesive a promising product for commercialization.