Biodegradable Natural Rubber Based on Novel Double Dynamic Covalent Cross-Linking

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Sustainable Materials

Background:

• Epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) is a versatile biopolymer with potential for advanced applications.
• Developing self-healing and biodegradable materials is crucial for sustainable technology.
• Existing natural rubber modifications often lack combined biodegradability and robust self-healing capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a novel biodegradable natural rubber derivative with inherent self-healing properties.
• To investigate the formation of a dynamic covalent network within the modified natural rubber.
• To confirm the biodegradability and self-healing efficiency of the new material.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of cyclic carbonate natural rubber (CNR) via reaction of ENR with CO2.
• Construction of dynamic disulfide bonds and boronic ester structures.
• Cross-linking using a thermally initiated "click" reaction between thiol groups and residual epoxy groups.

Main Results:

• Successfully synthesized CNR with dynamic disulfide bonds and boronic ester linkages.
• The resulting cross-linked network exhibited high self-healing efficiency due to its double dynamic covalent structure.
• Biodegradability was confirmed, attributed to the cyclic carbonate groups in CNR.

Conclusions:

• A novel self-healing and biodegradable natural rubber (CNR) was successfully prepared for the first time.
• The material's properties stem from its unique double dynamic covalent structure and cyclic carbonate groups.
• This advancement offers a promising sustainable alternative in polymer materials.