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Tough Double-Network Gels and Elastomers from the Nonprestretched First Network.
Tasuku Nakajima1,2,3, Yuhei Ozaki4, Ryo Namba4
1Faculty of Advanced Life Science, Hokkaido University, N21W11, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 001-0021, Japan.
ACS Macro Letters
|June 2, 2022
Summary
Researchers developed a new non-prestretching method for creating tough double-network (DN) gels and elastomers. This approach simplifies the preparation of these advanced soft materials by using a brittle first network with short strand length and low density.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Soft Matter Physics
Background:
- Double-network (DN) materials, composed of multiple polymer networks with distinct properties, are recognized for their exceptional toughness.
- Typically, the preparation of these materials requires a brittle and weak first polymer network, often achieved through prestretching.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-examine the structural requirements for the first network in tough DN materials.
- To establish a non-prestretching strategy for preparing brittle and weak first networks.
- To expand the diversity of achievable DN materials.
Main Methods:
- Investigated the structural properties of covalently cross-linked first networks in DN materials.
- Developed and applied a non-prestretching strategy for network preparation.
- Characterized the resulting DN gels and elastomers for toughness and mechanical properties.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated that a nonprestretched first network can be brittle and weak.
- Showcased that short strand length and low strand density in the first network are key parameters.
- Successfully prepared both tough DN gels and elastomers using the non-prestretching method.
Conclusions:
- Prestretching is not essential for creating the brittle first network in DN materials.
- A nonprestretched network with optimized strand length and density can yield tough DN materials.
- This simplified approach broadens the scope for designing diverse and robust DN materials.
