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Published on: June 23, 2017
Diels-Alder Network Blends as Self-Healing Encapsulants for Liquid Metal-Based Stretchable Electronics.
Fatemeh Sahraeeazartamar1, Seppe Terryn2, Rathul Nengminza Sangma2
1Lab of Physical Chemistry and Polymer Science (FYSC), Sustainable Materials Engineering Research Group (SUME), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium.
This study developed dynamic covalent networks by blending poly(propylene oxide) (PPO) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) polymers. These self-healing blends create adaptable encapsulants for stretchable strain sensors, demonstrating excellent recovery after damage.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Materials Chemistry
- Dynamic Covalent Chemistry
Background:
- Dynamic covalent networks offer tunable properties for advanced materials.
- Blending dissimilar polymer backbones can create synergistic effects.
- The Diels-Alder reaction provides a reversible cross-linking mechanism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and characterize novel dynamic covalent networks by blending PPO and PDMS polymers.
- To investigate the influence of polymer concentration and stoichiometry on blend morphology and properties.
- To evaluate the self-healing capabilities and application of these blends in stretchable strain sensors.
Main Methods:
- Blending furan-functionalized PPO and PDMS with a bismaleimide cross-linker.
- Utilizing the Diels-Alder reaction for reversible cross-linking.
- Morphological analysis via phase separation studies.
- Fabrication and testing of encapsulated liquid metal strain sensors.
Main Results:
- Blend morphology is controlled by PDMS concentration, forming distinct PPO- and PDMS-rich phases.
- Hydrophobic PDMS provides water barrier, hydrophilic PPO enhances oxygen resistance.
- Reduced cross-link density leads to increased flexibility, stretchability, and self-healing (96%).
- Encapsulated sensors exhibit linear electro-mechanical response and 90% recovery after damage.
Conclusions:
- Blended dynamic covalent networks offer tunable properties for creating functional materials.
- The developed materials demonstrate excellent self-healing and mechanical properties.
- These self-healing blends are suitable for fabricating robust, stretchable electronic devices like strain sensors.
