Dynamic Covalent Bond Cross-Linked Luminescent Silicone Elastomer with Self-Healing and Recyclable Properties

Two aldehyde-modified tetraphenylene derivatives with different functionality are synthesized and exhibit different fluorescence properties. By incorporating tetraphenylene derivatives into polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) networks, two elastomers are prepared through dynamic covalent cross-linking. The elastomers show excellent fluorescence properties, mechanical properties, thermal stability as well as self-healing and recycle properties. At the same time, the mechanical properties of the elastomers are influenced by the functionality of the tetraphenylene derivatives and the molecular weight of the PDMS. The self-healing process takes place quickly and the recycling process can be carried out by solution processing and hot pressing. It shows the similar tensile properties between the pristine and healed samples.