Chemodynamic covalent adaptable network-induced robust, self-healing, and degradable fluorescent elastomers for
Changyang Li1,2, Xing Su1,2, Chuanbao Cao1,2
1Advanced Technology Research Institute (Jinan), Beijing Institute of Technology Jinan 250300 China sx1020@126.com zoums@bit.edu.cn.
Chemical Science
|January 8, 2025
Summary
A new fluorescent elastomer with robust self-healing and degradability was developed using chemodynamic covalent adaptable networks (CCANs). This advanced material enables multi-color displays and secure pattern printing for smart anti-counterfeiting applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Smart Materials
Background:
- Elastomers are crucial for smart materials in information encryption.
- Current challenges include combining mechanical properties, self-healing, degradability, and luminescence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a robust, self-healing, and degradable fluorescent elastomer.
- To enhance security and anti-counterfeiting effectiveness using advanced elastomer properties.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a fluorescent elastomer using chemodynamic covalent adaptable networks (CCANs).
- Characterization of mechanical properties, self-healing efficiency, and luminescence.
- Evaluation of adaptive degradation under various conditions.
Main Results:
- The elastomer exhibits high tensile strength (33.44 MPa) and elongation at break (1265%).
- Excellent mechanical property restoration (94.67% efficiency) after self-healing at room temperature and elevated temperatures.
- Tunable multi-color fluorescence and pattern printing capabilities (QR codes) enabled by CCANs and curcumin segments.
- Adaptive degradation under biological, alkaline, and hot water conditions.
Conclusions:
- The CCAN-induced elastomer offers a multifunctional platform for advanced security features.
- This material demonstrates significant potential for next-generation smart anti-counterfeiting and flexible optoelectronic devices.
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